Work Text
Dusk fought the evening sun which prickled through the pearly white clouds hanging over Valentine. The sky once golden now fading into a cobalt haze. Evenings like these were found truly beautiful by Javier whom was riding through the town with Arthur after completing a mission there. It had been a long day for the pair of them, having started the mission in the early hours of that morning and only now able to finally return back to camp.“Remind me, Arthur, next time we get a lead off Uncle, he comes with us.” The Mexican rolled his shoulders back, crunching them to relieve some tension. “He could have helped us back there.”“It certainly wouldn’t have taken as long as it did.”“Sí… Well, it’s done with now. Just gotta make it back to camp in one piece.”“We will.” With a click of his tongue, Javier brought Boaz from a canter to a gallop to hasten the pace.“We should get off the road. We don’t want anyone to follow us back.” Arthur nodded his head, grunting in agreement. The raven-head looked to the left, seeing a formation of dense trees. “Through the trees here, Arthur.” Their horses steered clear from the road leading out of Valentine and disappeared through the woods. The duo had hoped this would be enough to lose a possible trail of lawmen who might quickly discover what chaos they had caused back there. Javier had thought it best to be safe than sorry, and Arthur agreed with the notion.Once the pair was deep enough into the trees, they halted their horses. They listened round, waiting for any sign of pursuit. A couple silent minutes go by, then a thundering of hooves could be heard from the road where they once were. Lawmen. Roughly five of them, yelling to each other how the criminals couldn’t have gone far. Silent the duo remained until the sounds finally vanished. Javier chuckled, placing his hand on top of his bowl hat. “See, partner? It always works out.”“Barely.” Arthur grumbled, now at last able to relax back on his horse. Javier chuckled once more.“Ahh, where is your sense of fun, amigo?” However, the laughter quickly stopped due to the sound of a piercing scream which echoed hauntingly through the woods. Both men, eyes wide, tried to look to the direction in which it came from. “It sounded like a woman.”Next, a gunshot.Crows shot up into the sky, cawing; signalling to where it came from. Javier’s eyebrows furrowed together, Boaz knocking his head back in reaction. “It sounds like she’s in trouble. Ride with me, Arthur!”“Javier, wait!” Arthur exclaimed just before his partner could take off. “We have already gotten into trouble today. We should probably stay low.” Javier frowned.“You know what Dutch says. We shoot fellers as need shooting. We save people as need saving and feed them as need feeding. That’s our way, Arthur.” The older cowboy sighed at what Javier said. He knew it was the right thing to do. He knew regardless of how he felt about the situation, Javier would still ride towards the danger and at the very least, he did not want his friend to get hurt. That’s just how Javier was, loyal with a heart of gold.“You’re right. Come on then.” Kicking at the stirrups, the two men charged towards the location. More screams followed suit along with three more gunshots. As horrible as it sounded, the screaming somewhat soothed the young Mexican, for it meant the woman was still alive; which meant she could still be saved. Not even the sting of the branches whipping against his face was enough to slow him down. A few minutes of riding brought them to a small cabin which pooled down into a dip amidst the woods, the trees hanging over like a cloak of impending death. The windows were golden, illuminated by the warm lamp within. Outside, a few horses with lassos attached to their saddles. More menacingly, shadows whipped past the windows at short intervals, along with the sounds of broken glass and audible struggles.“Gotcha now, girlie!” A man said from within the cabin. Followed by the sound of another.“Found ya at last! You’re coming back with us.” The other growled. It became very evident that there seemed to be a whole group of men inside. Alone. With just one woman. Arthur and Javier dismounted their horses and took cover behind the trees. The younger outlaw pulled out his binoculars to look through the cabin window. He gritted his teeth at what he saw.“O’Driscolls.” Arthur looked to Javier, soaking in the information.“Colm in there?”“No. But there seems to be a whole lot of them.”“And the girl?” Javier scanned over to the next window to see if he could find her. There, he saw her.Brown, wavy hair which cascaded down past her shoulders with darker eyes to match. She looked frightened – understandably. Yet Javier saw something more; a flicker of fearlessness which made her stand her ground. She stood tall against them, holding a knife, high in her hand. Her chest rising and falling with each shaking breath she took. Never once did she look away from them. Despite the odds of all these men who were slowly stepping towards her, stalking her like prey, she never once took a step back. It was as if she did not want to give them the satisfaction of her begging for them to leave her alone. She denied them their disgusting appetite for evil. Defied their want for her to give up. To Javier she was… mesmerising to watch.“Javier!” Arthur hissed, making Javier snap out of it. “The girl? Is she alright?” Javier cleared his throat, putting away his binoculars.“Sí. She’s putting up a fight. It’ll buy us time to get to her.” A gunshot pierced through the men’s ears which caused them to duck in retaliation. “Mierda! Arthur. How should we handle this?”“I’ll draw them out.” Arthur unravelled his Bolt Action Rifle which was resting against his back previously. In turn, Javier pulled out his Double-Action Revolver. “As soon as there’s a gap, you run down and get her.”“Alright, Arthur.” The older cowboy prepared his shot, aiming it through the window and looking through the scope to identify the individual who was closest to the woman. A couple seconds passed…BANG.A clean shot through the man’s head made him drop like a rock to the floor. Within milliseconds, the O’Driscolls ran through the door, opening fire on the pair. “It’s the Van Der Lindes!” One of them yelled, signalling for the others to come out of hiding, fortifying their defences.“Shit!” Arthur cursed. “There’s more of them!” The rattle of Javier’s revolver rang through Arthur’s ears.“I’ve got you, Arthur!” Bullets flew past their faces and over their heads, causing Arthur’s hat to fly off. Equally, the gunfire returned to the O’Driscolls and one by one, they fell to the ground, lifeless. Blood splattered across the grass and trees, almost instantly making this once tranquil woodland a battlefield.“Javier! Go!” Without need for another word, the dark-haired man raced down the hill towards the cabin, firing his revolver at the enemy gang as he went. Originally, he had scoped out only about six of them, yet there seemed to be over twenty men here. They had the place almost fully surrounded. And for one woman? Javier shook the thoughts from his mind and kicked open the door without hesitation. He shot his revolver through a man’s skull who seemed like he was about to tie the woman up. The O’Driscoll fell to the floor, never to stand again. The woman’s breath hitched in her throat from being startled by the sudden death. She was now on the floor, her back against the wall and knees close to her chest. Her breathing was deep, rapid and sharp; as if she had been holding her breath under water this entire time. She dared not look up, worried it may be another O’Driscoll boy who had more evil ideas on what he wanted to do with her.“Señorita!” Hands clasped round her shoulders, causing the woman to gasp. She jolted her head back to look up. “Señorita!” Her dark eyes met with Javier’s. Her blood went from cold to warm being under his gaze. “Are you okay?” His voice was soothing to her ears. His eyes were so… captivating. They held her gaze for longer than she had liked. “I’ll get you out of here, okay?” Before she could even respond, the sound of heavy footsteps came from behind Javier. A gun hit him around the back of his head, causing Javier to grunt and fall to the floor beside the woman. Her lips parted in shock, another shaky breath leaving her mouth at the sight before her. This stranger whom she had just met; whom was willing to save her from this, was now on the ground almost unconscious with blood trickling from his head. Groaning in pain, Javier looked to the O’Driscoll who laughed at him.“Mister Escuella… I have waited a long time to do that to you.”“Puta madre…” Javier’s eyes were tightly shut, internally trying to fight the pain from his head. He couldn’t help but moan as he turned onto his back to face the O’Driscoll. “You like preying on women do you?” Javier spat at the man leering over him. As a result, Javier had a boot come down hard on his hand which was trying to reach for his revolver. “Ah!”“Oh, we’re gonna have fun with her, don’t you worry.” The O’Driscoll pressed his boot down harder on Javier’s hand. “We’re lucky to have a leader like Colm. He doesn’t mind sharing his prizes.” Something clicked in Javier’s hand causing him to yell out in distress. He held onto the man’s boot, trying to pull it off but due to the blow to his head, he was unable to push through on his advance. “Once I’ve killed you and we have finished what we want to do with her, then we will be on our way to collect-” The O’Driscoll sucked in air sharply, his eyes wider than a deer face to face with a barrel of a gun belonging to a hunter. Javier was able to at last free his hand from under the man’s boot and look through his black hair to see what had transpired. There, the woman stood with her knife embedded in the O’Driscoll’s ribcage. Coughing up blood, it was evident she had punctured his lung. She seemed shocked by what she had just done, yet an overwhelming feeling came over her. She couldn’t fight the urge to utterly destroy this man. When he fell to the ground, she screamed at the top of her lungs and straddled him with her knife held by both her hands above her head. Without any more hesitation, she forced down the blade into his mouth, then his eyes, his cheeks and finally his forehead. Pure survival instinct had distorted her brain into doing this. She had to make sure this man was dead, that he would not come back to haunt her or hurt anyone else for that matter. He had been the most revolting one to her and after hearing what he had to said to the man who had rescued her, she could not hold back any longer. She could not let the member of the Van Der Lin gang die on behalf of her. She would not be able to live with such guilt. Blood patches were now painted across her face, sitting solid like war paint. Dull eyes looked down at the dead man before her. Her breathing had slowed but it was still deep and heavy. The woman appeared to be in a trance.“Señorita… Señorita…” The voice was quiet like it was coming from the back of her mind. A tanned hand came to her cheek. She rose back from the pits of hell to reality. Her eyes met with Javier’s. “Are you okay?” Her eyes softened.“Christ, what’s happened in here? Javier?” The woman jumped to her feet, having picked back up her bloodied blade and pointing it at the cowboy who just walked in. Javier raised his hand across from her chest.“No no no. He’s a friend! They all dead, Arthur?”“Yes… they won’t be bothering us for some time.” Sheer relief took over the girl and she fell to her knees, dropping her knife once more. Tears formed in her eyes and she sobbed quietly. Knowing that perhaps she wanted a moment alone, Arthur walked over to Javier to try and help him up. “You rescue her okay?” The Mexican chuckled through his pain.“Actually, she rescued me.” He then hissed after being brought to his feet, his hand pressed firmly against the area which was bleeding. “Hijo de perra… He got me good.” (“Son of a bitch”)“Come on, let’s get you back to camp.”“No, you go on. I’m going to stay with her, make sure she’s okay.”“Javier…” The shorter male looked at his friend, shooting him a look which told a thousand words. Arthur sighed and raised his hands in truce. “Fine. Just don’t linger around for too long. Law’s bound to show soon.”“I got it.” Javier placed his hat back on his head, wincing at the material pressing against the wound. But he felt more obliged to help the girl than himself. Once they were finally left alone, Javier knelt beside her. Her head was hanging low and she sat on the backs of her ankles, knees on the wooden floor. Her shoulders were rising and falling in rhythm to her faint cries. The male found his heart twinging at the sight, a knot building up in his chest which he could not explain. All he knew was that he did not want to see her like this. “Are you going to be alright?” He saw her tears wet the fabric of her white skirt. Her white blouse was also damp but covered in O’Driscoll blood. Her sobs could not be stopped. “Hey...” With his index and middle finger, he moved a few strands of her hand away from her tear-stained face and tucked them behind her ear. “Don’t cry. It’ll be alright, Señorita.” Choking on the lump in her throat, she still could not find any words to say to him. The night could have turned out disastrous for not just her, but for her rescuer who was doing an act of kindness. In one last effort to get her to speak, Javier put his curled index finger underneath her chin to make her look at him. “Hey.” Just like before, the woman felt calm looking into his cocoa eyes. He had a gentleness that she had not seen from a man before. It intrigued her greatly. He wanted to ask her once more if she was going to be okay, but after what she had experienced tonight and seeing her teary eyes, he knew what the answer would be; whether she would say it or not. “I’ll tell you what.” Javier stood up, pressing his hand back to his hat where blood began to print onto his hand. “I think you should come with me.” She blinked in confusion. “It’s clearly unsafe out here and who knows… more O’Driscolls might show up.” He walked towards the door, his back facing her. Part of her wanted to jump up and follow him but she dared not to. Her mysterious situation that she did not wish to share held her back. All the while, Javier turned around and gave her a smile, raising his eyebrow. “I think I might need the protection.”A shy smile formed from her lips and a little gasp of laughter escaped. She wiped away her tears, rubbing the tips of her fingers over eyes to help wake herself up. When Javier saw her smile, even though it was little, he smiled wider – proud his charm had an effect on her. He opened the door, leaving it ajar for her and whistled for Boaz. As he awaited his steed, he straightened out his red and tan poncho. By the time he holstered his revolver, Boaz had returned to him and thus he mounted up steadily, not wanting to go dizzy from his head injury. It was the sound of faint footsteps which made him turn his head back to the cabin. She stood in the doorway, the glow of light behind her making her look almost Biblical and angelic to him. The woman looked up at him, looking so unsure on what to do. “Señorita.” He held out his hand to her. “Take my hand.”Without question, she stepped over to her rescuer and placed her small hand onto his; in one swift motion he pulled her up behind him. Her arms wrapped around Javier’s body; her hands rested on his chest. Javier couldn’t help but grin subtly at this. He whispered back to her after he felt her cheek press against his back. “Hold on, Querida.” Boaz then bolted forth following the signal from his rider. The woman’s fingers pressed a little more firmly into Javier’s chest, not wanting to fall off. Cantering through the woods, the raven-head called over his shoulder to the woman he was giving safe passage to. “My name is Javier.”“Miriam.” He sighed quietly in content upon hearing the sound of her voice.“Miriam… ese es un hermoso nombre.” She nuzzled into his poncho, the softness of the material comforting her like a warm blanket. She hummed at what he said, not understanding a word of Spanish. He looked over his shoulder at her. “I said that’s a beautiful name.” Tiredly she blinked, her lashes batting against her cheeks.“Thank you…” She whispered. Not only for the compliment but for what he had done for her that night. Too exhausted to continue the conversation, Miriam found herself lulling off into a light sleep.For the first time in a long time, she felt… protected. And it was thanks to the man whom she tightly embraced on that quiet ride below the starry sky. Javier Escuella.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Moonbeams shimmered down upon the Van Der Linde camp; Horseshoe Overlook. Most of the gang members were asleep aside from a few who sat by the fire. Javier’s horse could be heard trotting into camp. The first one to greet him was Arthur, but his face quickly turned sour upon seeing that Javier had brought along the woman they had saved just over an hour ago.“Javier…” Arthur said through gritted teeth. He was quiet with his tone, not wanting to awake the girl behind his friend; nor the rest of the camp. Javier let go of the reins and held his hands out in question.“What was I supposed to do? She can hardly speak.”“There was over twenty goddamn O’Driscolls trying to take her, or whatever they hell they were trying to do. Don’t you think the situation is odd?” Javier rolled his eyes and dismounted Boaz, carefully.“Maybe they were passing through. Stumbled across her… thought they could have some kind of sick fun. O’Driscolls are scum.” Javier spat on the ground, his words like venom when he spoke of the gang’s name. Arthur leaned in closer, frowning.“Or there’s more to the situation than we realise. When Colm realises his men are dead, he’ll come looking. With twice the number of men.”“Then she’s safer here with us.” Javier almost hissed at Arthur, not wanting to hear of it anymore. The small commotion alerted the gang members by the fire, drawing them over to Javier. One of them was Uncle, perhaps one of the loudest members of the group who would surely wake everyone up.“Hey fellers!” He gasped lowly, looking at the woman upon Javier’s horse. “Who you got there, Javier?” Uncle playfully elbowed the raven-head in the arm. “A lady friend, huh?”“Shut up, old man.” Uncle’s mouth hung wide open, offended at Javier’s attitude.“Hey, hey, that’s no way to speak to your elder. I was just saying-”“-Well, I’m just saying, you need to shut up.”“Mister Escuella, Mister Morgan!” Miss Grimshaw stormed over; fists tightly clenched. “What is going on over here?” Javier sighed, the voices in camp now getting louder and louder. Arthur calmly explained the situation in the background to both Miss Grimshaw and Uncle whilst Javier gently shook the girl awake.“Hey…” He whispered. Miriam’s eyes opened just an inch to look down to the owner of the soft voice. “I’m going to lift you down, okay?” His large hands held onto her hips and smoothly pulled her off without causing too much distress. The only result of the action was him wincing at the pain from his head injury. Miriam noticed this and looked at him with big doe-eyes and held onto the sleeves of his blue jacket out of concern.“Are you okay?” He chortled in a hushed manner.“Sí, Señorita.” That worried look in her eyes made him swell up with confidence. “I’ll be fine.” For a moment, he forgot about the pain. What mattered to him was making sure Miriam felt safe, and much to his liking; she clearly felt most safe when around him.“What. Is. Going. On?” Dutch exclaimed, hearing most of the members of the camp now beginning to crowd round the new blood. The only members who weren’t present were Abigail and Jack who were still sleeping, and Micah who was holed up in Strawberry.“Javier’s bought a new girl into the camp!” Mary-Beth happily blurted out, hardly able to contain her excitement. She did love the female company she had at camp and was ecstatic of sharing it with a newcomer. “Do you like to read, honey?” Before Miriam could open her mouth, another gang member pitched in.“Even better, can ya handle a drink?” Karen piped up.“Will you two stop it!” Miss Grimshaw jeered, disapproving of their outbursts. “Can’t you see the poor thing is scared without you all…” She looked around at everyone else and almost hissed at them. “… gawking at her like she’s some kind of prized pony at a county fair!”“None of us were gawking Miss Grimshaw!” Lenny called out, a hint of nervousness in his voice. Then a loud, obnoxious voice bellowed over everyone’s heads.“Haha! Speak for yourself Mister Summers! I betcha this young lass here is indeed a prized pony if our own Javier has taken a likin’ to her, huh! I think I like her mi ‘self!” The Irishman happily chirped, seeing no harm in his words yet his eyes indeed lingered a little too long for Karen and Javier’s liking. Miss Grimshaw pinched Sean by the ear, twisting it to the side.“I’m watching you, Mister MacGuire.”“Ah! Let go!” Letting him squirm a couple more seconds, the older woman released him. His hand instantly went to his ear, rubbing it. “You’re a cruel woman, Miss Grimshaw! There ain’t no harm in lookin’!”“Oh yeah?” Karen rolled her eyes, walking off. Sean walked off after her, trying to explain himself. The others, however, were glad to be rid of him, now finally able to focus on the matter at hand. Amongst the disarray, Arthur and Javier pulled Dutch aside where they joined with Hosea to discuss the situation. Miss Grimshaw put it upon herself to ‘guard’ the girl from the others. Miriam stood behind the older lady, staying close to Boaz. All the voices muttering around them made her feel as though she was stuck in cage, unable to escape. She shied away, not wanting to engage with anyone. Part of her wishing she had saved Javier the trouble and just stayed back at the cabin. She looked around for him. Soon she saw he was in deep conversation with Dutch who looked to her like the leader of the gang. Mister Van Der Linde himself. Guilt entered her heart, hoping he was not getting into trouble over her.“Right… Miss Grimshaw!” Dutch yelled, hushing the voices of the gang members.“Yes, Dutch?”“Will you please take care of Miss Miriam. I’m sure you and the other girls will settle her in nicely.” The elder lady nodded her head and put her hand on the small of Miriam’s back, coaxing her away from the crowd with Tilly, Mary-Beth and Sadie. “Uncle! Will you be so kind as to set up a tent for Miss Miriam?”“W-Why me, boss?” Dutch shot a look at the old man, stepping slowly and menacingly towards him.“The boys tell me it was you who gave them their lead… and you didn’t go to help them?” Having been caught out, Uncle stumbled over his words, looking at Arthur and Javier who stood behind Dutch, both having lit a cigarette. The ember glows of their smoking cast ominous shadows below their eyes which made Uncle nervous.“I… I wanted to! But my back has been hurting and someone has to stay back at camp— I’m real sorry Dutch, I wanted to help I really did but--” Dutch put a hand on Uncle’s shoulder, smiling.“I understand old boy. So, we would really appreciate your help now in helping set up the tent for Miss Miriam.” Dutch had a haunting charisma to him which made almost anyone do his bidding for him. Nodding his head frantically, Uncle began to walk towards the other women.“I-I understand, boss!” Hosea chuckled, patting Dutch on the back.“That famous Van Der Linde charm, ay old Dutch?” The men chuckled amongst themselves. All but Javier who found himself watching what the women were doing; in particular, Miriam. She had her arms wrapped around one another, rubbing them to fight against the cold breeze which was running through the camp. Javier blew out the smoke between his lips. He saw how the moonlight reflected off from her hair. Although her hair was wavy like some form of mythical creature, it still held a glowing shine to it which was pleasing to the eye. Her skin looked soft to touch, like butter. And her hands looked so gentle but delicate. When he held her hand moments prior, he remembered how smooth they were. He couldn’t help but let his thoughts wander. Perhaps she used oils?Javier flicked his cigarette ash before taking another drag of it.His eyes looked back to her hair which was being mildly fanned back by a gust of icy wind. He found himself longing to run his fingers back through it but wanting to savour the touch. To Javier, Miriam seemed so… ethereal.“And Mister Strauss!” Javier jolted back to his senses. He dropped his cigarette and stood on it to put out the embers.“Yes, Mister Van Der Lin?”“Will you please see to Javier’s head injury? He took a nasty hit tonight.” Javier waved his hand.“I’m fine.”“No, you’re not, son.” Dutch put his hand on Javier’s shoulder. “Go see, Strauss. For me.” Being undoubtedly loyal to Dutch, Javier followed his orders and begrudgingly walked away with Strauss to his medicine wagon. “The rest of you... back to your own business!”Javier sat uninterested on top of a barrel as Strauss tended to his head and the others went back to bed. He picked up his shoe, resting it on the edge of the barrel and began to scrape the dirt off his shoe with a small piece of timber. Now and then he would wince at Strauss’ actions but ultimately soldiered through the pain. He had dealt with worse before. Starvation, heartache, being driven out of his country… no mortal pain could compare to the things he experienced from his past. “Well, Mister Escuella. You’re going to be alright.”“Like I said.” Strauss ignored the Mexican’s attitude and passed him a bottle. “What’s this?”“A health cure. Drink that and the pain will go away.” Javier shrugged his shoulders and knocked the whole thing back in one. He threw the empty bottle aside and hopped down from the barrel. He mumbled his thanks to the German and strutted over to his tent. He was about to go inside when he looked back over his shoulder having heard Miss Grimshaw bid her goodnight to what appeared to be Miriam in her tent. Miss Grimshaw closed the tent and walked away to leave the girl in peace. He hesitated. He wanted to go over there to see how she was but wondered if she would rather be left alone. He thought back to earlier when she was rubbing her arms and a smile curled up from the corner of his lips.“No te duermas todavía cariño.” (“Don’t fall asleep yet darling.”) He whispered, now making his way over to her tent. He discreetly looked around, making sure no one was watching and to be safe he stood silently by her tent for a few moments. Bill walked past him and Javier just nodded in passing. Bill, being too drunk to notice, went straight to his bed to pass out. Javier looked around once before tapping on the sheet of Miriam’s tent. “Señorita.” He waited for a response but none came. He held his hands in front of him, still intent on making sure the coast was clear. Once more he whispered but a little louder this time. “Señorita!” He crouched down, to speak through the small opening of the tent. “Are you awake?” To his hidden delight, Miriam’s head peaked through the opening and once she saw it was Javier she relaxed, opening the tent a bit more.“Hi Javier…”“Hola.” He murmured, matching the quietness of her voice. He couldn’t conceal his smile upon seeing her. “Cómo estás?” She looked at him innocently yet bewildered.“I’m sorry?” He licked his tongue over the bottoms of his upper teeth, trying to supress a snicker.“I said…” He leaned in closer to her, his voice becoming lower in pitch. His lips were inches away from her ear. “How are you?” His voice almost made her melt due to how close he was to her. Miriam swallowed, trying to be rid of the dryness in her throat.“Fine. Thank you.” She wiped her cheeks, getting rid of the last stains of tears. “How is your head?”“I’ll be alright. A head injury is nothing compared to what you have gone through tonight.” She looked away, thinking back to those awful moments leading up to her rescue. Miriam reminded herself of how lucky she was that Javier came along when he did. Javier noticed the young woman seemed to be lost in her thoughts. He furrowed his eyebrows together. “Hey… you wanna talk about it?” She shook her head lightly. “I understand.” Then he put his arms around the bottom hem of his poncho and pulled it up over his head. He folded it roughly in his hands and offered it to her. “I thought you’d might want this.” Her cheeks became hot, having become flustered at the notion. “I saw you were cold earlier and well…” Miriam flickered her eyes back up to Javier which caused him to pause in his sentence. They had locked eyes for five… six… seven seconds before Javier broke the gaze. He cleared his throat and offered her his poncho once more. “Please. I’d feel better knowing you weren’t cold.” The chestnut-haired woman took the beautiful fabric from Javier’s hands, smiling deeply at the man’s kindness.“Thank you, Javier.”“You’re welcome… Miriam.” He smiled in relief. A bubble of pride pushed against his chest, pleased this had worked out better than what he imagined in his head. “Well then… Goodnight.”“Goodnight.” She hummed back, her voice dripping with honey. She closed her tent, seeing Javier begin to walk away. A confident strut began to grace his steps as he walked back over to his own tent. He couldn’t describe why that interaction made him happy but it did. It felt nice to give something back to someone. To see her smile; make her feel safe. He led on his bedroll, his arms crossed behind his head and turned his head to look up to the stars.After tonight’s events, the stars shone a little brighter for Javier. For that, he was thankful.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
One week had passed since Miriam had joined the Van Der Linde camp. The women of the gang had been particularly kind to the young woman, making sure she settled in. However, that was thing. She hadn’t settled in. The entire time she had remained quiet, not uttering a single word to anyone. Javier hadn’t been round to check in on her due to mission arrangements which required him to be out of camp for a long while. Although the young woman was quiet, she still completed whatever chores needed doing by Miss Grimshaw. She did them promptly and efficiently which immediately put her into the older woman’s good books. Half of the reason being, Miriam wished to pay the gang back for their kindness for taking her in and the other half being she wished to finish her day early so she could wander off somewhere just outside of camp to read. That was something she and Mary-Beth had in common. Mary-Beth kindly let Miriam borrow her books and she had finished reading almost all of them. Both Mary-Beth and Sadie were the most understanding of all.It was late afternoon and the sun scorched brightly down through the trees which Miriam escaped to. She pressed her back against one notably large tree and slid down it, sitting silently in the shade. The way the rays beamed down through the foliage, it cast a mystical light onto the book she pulled out. Finding the page she was last reading, she sighed quietly. Not out of content but out of longing. Longing to find true peace in her situation… and to see her rescuer again.Meanwhile, back in camp, a familiar grey overo steed trotted into camp with his loyal rider aboard. Dutch looked past Miss Grimshaw and Hosea who were conversing with him about the new girl. “Speaking of the man… Javier!” Dutch exclaimed, holding his hand up to greet him. Javier jumped down and hitched Boaz to the post. The younger male nodded to his leader.“Yes, boss?” Dutch signalled the man over. “What’s the problem?”“Before we get into that, how did it go?” Javier shrugged, pulling out a cigarette. He swiped a match against his boot to light it up. Flicking the match’s fire away, he breathed in the fumes before letting out a long, relaxed exhale.“As good as it could, boss.” He then hummed in realisation, holding up his index finger. He twisted round his body to reach into his back pocket. The result being a wad of cash. Javier walked over to the cash box, placing the gang’s share inside and then pocketing his cut inside his inner jacket pocket. Dutch chuckled proudly.“Well done my boy.” Miss Grimshaw sighed.“Yes, yes. Well done, Mister Escuella. Now onto newer matters.” She exerted. Grimshaw held out her hands to get the younger male’s focus. “It’s Miss Miriam.” She now had Javier’s undivided attention.“What about her?” He quickly responded, a slight hint of concern in his voice.“She hasn’t spoken a single word since she’s been here!”“Maybe… she’s just quiet?” Grimshaw tutted at Javier.“It’s not just that. She hardly touches her food, despite Mr Pearson’s best efforts. She leaves the safety of the camp and goes, God knows where!” Seeing Grimshaw go a little red in the face, Hosea takes over.“What we mean to say, Javier is…” Hosea places his hand on Javier’s shoulder, getting him to take a couple steps away from Dutch’s tent. “We’re concerned about the girl. We don’t know who she is, or where she’s from. It’s making it harder for us to help resolve her situation. And certainly, her not eating… well, we don’t want the poor girl to starve.”“And where do I come into this?” Hosea gave Javier a knowing smile.“She’s sweet on you.” Javier froze, caught off guard for a split second.“Miss Miriam has only talked to you since being with us.” Grimshaw followed and Hosea once more continued on.“She looks around camp for you, like a lost puppy. So, we think it’s only right that… you give her some company.”“Company?” Javier quizzed.“Just spend some time with her and… well maybe she’ll start to feel more comfortable in camp. Shed some light on who she is and how we can help her.” Javier thought about it and it did not take him long to nod. His thoughts still captivated by what Hosea stated earlier about Miriam being sweet on him.“Sure.”“Then it’s settled.” Dutch ended the discussion, calling Hosea back over to discuss future plans and waving away Miss Grimshaw. Javier strutted back to his tent, removing his denim jacket, and placing it on his bedding. He rolled his shoulders back until he heard a satisfying crack before finding his hat. Cigarette still in his mouth, he pushed the head piece firmly upon his head and looked around for where Miriam might be. Remembering the information Grimshaw gave him, he suspected she would be on the outskirts of camp, or at least not too far from it. He made his way through the trees.Whisps of paper turning over soothed Miriam’s ears. The crisp freshness of a page gave an odd delight to the young woman. It helped her to feel immersed into the story she was reading. Currently her mind was in a realm of dragons who fought against brave knights to save their fair maidens whom were kidnapped beyond the charred lands. She smiled deeply at the paragraph before her, detailing how one of the knights looked down at a handkerchief his lover had given him before she was taken; for it reminded him of her and how he would stop at nothing until she was back in his arms.“Así que aquí es donde te has estado escondiendo.” (“So this is where you’ve been hiding.”) Javier’s words rolled off his tongue so quickly, by the time he finished, Miriam had only just looked up. However, upon meeting his eyes, she smiled, happiness clear in her expression.“Javier…” The way he leant against the tree; with his arms folded, one foot crossed in front of the other and his hat casting a shadow across his face, Miriam felt butterflies attack her stomach. She tucked her hair behind her ear. “How have you been?”“I’ve been fine. Got sent away on a mission. It was a long one.” She nodded just slightly, glad to have some closure on where he had been. The young woman had thought up so many scenarios on what he was doing and almost all of them made her worry for his safety. “What about you?”“I… I’ve been better.” Javier appreciated the honesty.“Miss Grimshaw says you haven’t been eating.” Miriam stayed silent. The raven-head got down to her level, sitting beside her now. “You have to eat, cariño.” Changing the subject, she tilted her head at him.“Ca… riño? What does that mean?” Her gentle voice made him smirk. She was so innocent. He found it… cute.“Wouldn’t you like to know?” He teased.“Well, I’d like to know what you’re saying.”“And where’s the fun in that… cariño?” When he said the term of endearment this time around, Miriam’s cheeks flushed, a spasm of warmth coursing rapidly down to her lower abdomen. This mysterious persona yet charming and kind nature he possessed was so attractive to her. Part of her enjoyed the lack of understanding she had when he spoke to her in his native tongue. It encouraged to her bite back a little. She gave a short laugh to conceal her blush.“You’re being very rude.” Javier blinked yet a smile still there to proclaim his own innocence.“How so?” Laughing once more, Miriam closed her book and got up. Wrapping both arms around the literature and began to walk deeper into the trees. Javier couldn’t help himself but jest some more as he tried to follow after her. “¿Adónde vas?” (“Where are you going?”) Miriam stopped in her tracks; looking over her shoulder, smiling at him in a way which looked like she was half finding the situation amusing and the other half being astounded at his persistence.“I think you’re taking advantage of my poor understanding of Spanish, Mister Escuella.” He stopped also. He put his hands on his hips, a grin now plastered across his face.“Is that so?”“I know so.” It was her turn to put a hand on her hip. “You obviously relish in watching me look at you, clueless and just when I find the courage to ask what you mean, you deny me.”“Courage…” He chuckled, lowering his cap slightly so she was unable to see his eyes as clearly. “I didn’t realise I was so scary to talk to.” Her expression changed, not expecting him to respond like that.“I… what I mean to say is…” She took a step closer to gain his attention. “I’m quite intrigued by your language. It sounds so… fascinating and beautiful. I only wish to learn more.” Mirroring her last movement, he too stepped closer. Now Miriam was arching her neck back to look up at him. His eyes a deep dark amber, shrouded with enigma.“Entonces escucha atentamente, cariño…” (“Then listen carefully, darling…”) A twig snapped beneath his boot as he took one last step closer. She didn’t back down from his advances, keeping her eyes locked with his. He leant down, his lips inches away from her ear. “Te enseñaré un par de cosas.” (“I’ll teach you a few things.”) Her breath became jagged. He was so close to her. She couldn’t help but slightly turn her head to try and look him in the eye. Oh, how she regretted it. Javier’s eyes looked so intense. Smouldering effortlessly. A slither of fear ran down her spine, praying that her knees would keep her standing for her belly was now dancing in tight circles. Javier broke the gaze by stepping back to chuckle. He pinched the bridge of his nose, shaking his head as he did so. Ever so quietly, Miriam huffed.“What’s so funny?”“Your expression, cariño. It’s so…” He held his hand out, rotating his fingers round in loops to try and find the word he was looking for. “… dulce.”“Dulce?” His expression softened.“Dulce.” He repeated, more enunciated this time to help with her pronunciation.“Dulce.”“There you go.” Javier spoke, encouragement in his voice. She smiled at her small victory but then frowned.“But… what does it mean?” The dark-haired male looked at her, soaking in her beautifully confused expression not long before turning on his heel to head back towards camp. Just before she could retaliate, Javier responded.“I’ll tell you… if you eat with me back at camp.” Once more he looked at her. This time his expression was no longer playful. It was stern yet somewhat pleading. Miriam looked down, being reminded of why she didn’t feel comfortable to eat. She could not explain why to him, in fear of what he would think of her. Yet all her worries seemed to disappear when she noticed his hand outstretched to her. “Toma mi mano.” (“Take my hand.”) For the first time, she unknowingly understood what he meant by his words. Miriam placed her hand in his where his tanned fingers wrapped around her slender ones. He gave it the faintest of squeezes before pulling her along behind him.The two of them made it back to camp where Mr Pearson had just placed his big stew pot down – ready for the gang members to help themselves to. There was no disorderly rush, just a couple members at a time, at random intervals going for their share of food. Javier guided Miriam over to the empty table and there he left her so he could grab her a bowl of stew. She tucked her hair behind her ears, feeling somewhat nervous for reasons she still didn’t wish to share. By the time she sat down, Javier had returned with a bowl for himself and one for her.“Here.” He placed it front of her. “It’s not the best, but Pearson does his best.” Miriam delicately scooped up a spoonful and stared at it. Javier watched from the corner of his eye, starting on his own bowl. Trying her best to overcome her mental battle, she placed her lips around the spoon and swallowed the liquid. A narrow smile tugged at Javier’s lips. “Dulce… it means ‘sweet’.” The educational moment warmed Miriam’s heart, taking another mouthful whilst she smiled to herself. Javier in turn found her reaction so charming.“Sweet, hm? Like… honey sort of sweet?” She responded.“Uh… yes. Yes. Helps describe a lot of pleasant things.”‘Oh God…’ Miriam thought to herself, feeling that warm rush return to her lower abdomen. Why did he have to say things like that? In a way that could make any person swoon. She cleared her throat, trying to focus back on her food. “How would you describe this, then?” She asked, referring to Pearson’s food which was clearly not pleasant. Javier leant back in his chair and shrugged looking down at the bowl.“Comestible.” The young woman smirked at him, awaiting his elaboration. He looked at her completely serious, an almost blank expression. “Edible.” Then something unexpected happened. She found herself truly laughing, out loud. It caught a few of the gang member’s attention. In particular, Mr Pearson, who put a hand on his hip, scowling.“Something funny?” Javier raised his hand, shaking it in defence as he called over to him.“No, no, Mister Pearson! The food is good!” Another bubble of laughter erupted from within the newcomer. The camp’s chef grumbled something under his breath as he continued working at his station. Miriam’s laugh made Javier smile from ear to ear. It was quite a dirty laugh; unlike anything he had ever heard before. He liked it. “Was it something I said?” The young woman brought her index fingers to her eyes, wiping away the tears which prickled her waterline.“It’s just how you said it.”“How did I say it?”“You said it so serious! Like you were so…” More laughter escaped her which resulted in her now holding her belly, a painful stitch beginning to form. “Stop it!” The laughter began to hurt, yet she still couldn’t cease the action. “Please!” The more she thought about how Javier looked when he said it, the funnier it got.From a distance, Hosea looked up from his newspaper; seeing the pair enjoying each other’s company. His own grin gracing his features. He shook his head, flipping over to the next page. Hosea was usually right about these things and it seemed he had resolved the situation quickly.Finally, Miriam calmed down, fanning herself to cool off. Javier rose an eyebrow, looking smug at the chaos he caused at the table. “You okay?”“Yes. I’m so sorry-”“Don’t apologise. It was nice to hear.” Not wanting herself to be embarrassed any further, she placed down the spoon back into the bowl and excused herself from the table. She failed to eat all of it, but it was progress. Miriam took her bowl away to go wash up and Javier followed behind with his own. She offered to take it for him but he insisted on helping her. The raven-head rolled his white sleeves up, exposing his muscular forearms. Miriam couldn’t help but notice how well dressed he was. His black waistcoat hugged onto his body, exposing how broad and wide his chest was from underneath. In addition, the way his ebony locks fell down his face, just exposing the slit across his eyebrow and chiselled cheeks. The man was beautiful. She pondered on the thought of how lucky she felt to have been saved by him. He could have easily tried to have his own way with her after killing that O’Driscoll, but instead he showed her kindness which she thought did not exist.Finishing the washing up, Javier shook his hands above the tub to get rid of any excess water. “Right, that should be it.” Snapping back into reality, Miriam swiftly dried her hands with a towel and headed over to her tent. Once she retrieved what she needed from her tent, the young woman returned to Javier.“Before you go… I wanted to return this.” With both her hands, she offered back Javier’s neatly folded poncho. “There was a small rip in the back so I fixed it for you.” Javier gently took the material from her and unfolded the poncho to look at her patchwork. She had done a good job. It looked as though there was no obvious repair at all. His heart clenched at the thought of her sitting on some tree somewhere with a needle and thread in her hand, trying to fix something that was dear to him. He looked at her with warmth and gratitude.“Thank you, Miriam.” There was a comfortable silence between the two. Before it got too long, Miriam pointed over to the ladies.“I better go see if they need help.” Javier nodded. Shyly she smiled. “I’ll see you later.”“Hasta luego.” (“See you later.”) The male took a second to process that afternoon’s events and he turned on his heel to walk away. Javier noticed Miriam had left her book on the table. He picked it up and contemplated returning it to her now or later. He held it tighter, deciding later would be best as it would give him another excuse to see her. Javier continued walking. He didn’t know where he was going to walk off to, but he knew he needed time to think. Upon passing, Hosea popped down his newspaper, still sat with one leg crossed on his seat.“How’d it go?” The older man asked nonchalantly. Being lost in his own thoughts, Javier unknowingly ignored Hosea’s question and kept walking. He didn’t even realise Hosea was trying to speak to him. The elder shook his head, smiling. He licked his thumb to help turn another page of the paper. “Ah… young love.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The morning sun rolled up into the baby blue sky. Not one cloud could be seen for miles. Ever since Javier spoke to Miriam that previous afternoon, the young woman was finally speaking – at the very least – sentences with the other camp members. Whether it was telling Mary-Beth what kind of books she enjoyed reading; sharing a short acknowledgement of Sadie’s pain or telling Karen she needed to swap her bottle for some water. It may have just been small talk here and there, but it made Hosea and Miss Grimshaw happy to see the progress. They weren’t the only ones.Blowing smoke from his mouth, Javier kept an eye from afar on Miriam. He rolled his neck to adjust the position of his red bandana which it was tied around. Feeling the fabric loosen, his eyes went back to Miriam who was sat next to Mary-Beth. Miriam was sewing a heap of different fabrics whilst Mary-Beth had a book in her hand, chatting away to her new friend without a care in the world. From what he could hear, it was about some sort of book.“I’m sorry, Mary-Beth. I’ll try and find it. I think I just… misplaced it.”“Don’t worry about it too much. I’m sure it’ll show up.” Javier put two and two together, realising it was over the book he currently had in his possession. He took this as his cue to approach them, book now in hand and cigarette stubbed out on a barrel. He cleared his throat, gaining their attention.“Señoras.” Miriam’s eyes twinkled seeing him.“Hi Javier.” A hint of bashfulness played on Miriam’s voice. Mary-Beth greeted him with just a short ‘hello’ smirking playfully at Miriam. Mary-Beth had read many romantic novels and Miriam’s behaviour was a tell-tale sign of what was going on. Javier held out the book which Miriam had misplaced.“You were looking for this?” A wave of relief washed over the young woman. She stood up, placing the fabric and sewing tools down on her seat to retrieve the book.“Oh Javier, I’m really grateful you found this.”“Well, ain’t you just a knight in shining armour for Miss Miriam.” Mary-Beth stated, followed by a giggle. Miriam blushed at her remark, tucking her hair behind her ear. She handed the book straight back to Mary-Beth. She blinked in confusion. “Ain’t ya still reading it?”“I was but… I’ll finish it some other time. I’ve got to finish the dress and I wouldn’t want to lose it again.”“Why are you making a dress?” Javier cursed himself as soon as the words left his lips, realising. It was for herself. The poor girl was never able to pack any clothes with her due to having to leave the cabin so quick. In addition, there was only one spare dress Miss Grimshaw could find for her. Before Miriam could respond, Javier chimed back in. “I’ll take you into town.” Butterflies somersaulted within the young woman’s belly. She tried to respond but found herself speechless at the offer. She looked to Mary-Beth for help. Her green-eyed friend nodded slowly, trying to get Miriam to mirror her movements; coaxing her to go along with this.“That… would be nice!” Mary-Beth chirped. “You’re all cooped up in here. It’ll be nice for you to see civilisation again.” Miriam frantically looked around, trying to hide her embarrassment with logic.“But… my chores. Miss Grimshaw really needs them done too and-”“Don’t you worry about that.” Mary-Beth grabbed hold of Miriam’s sewing tools. “I’ll take care of this. You go on!” She shooed Miriam away from her, giving her one last encouraging look before getting up to finish the chores. The chestnut-eyed lady felt dizzy, yet strangely excited at the opportunity to ride into town with Javier. She had her back facing Javier and she took this moment to quickly press her fingertips against her cheek to check her temperature. Her cheek was scorching hot. Javier tutted mischievously.“I didn’t realise the idea of going into town with me would repulse you so much.” She whipped her head round, taking the bait.“I’m not repulsed.” He took a step closer to her, his neck now arching down to stare her in the eyes.“Entonces, ¿qué te pone tan nerviosa cuando estás a mi alrededor?” (“So what makes you so nervous when you’re around me?”) Puzzling orbs soaked in Javier’s enticing and sultry gaze. It was enough to make her melt before him. She found it so alluring when he spoke to her like this, unable to understand a single thing he was saying. Ever so slightly, the Mexican leant down a little more, turning his ear as if he expected a response. “Hm?” He hummed cheekily. Finding the strength to overcome the circus that was transpiring within her lower abdomen, she took a shaky breath and pressed.“I’m not repulsed. I’m… I’d be happy to.”“Good.” The tension between the two ended with Javier now heading over to Boaz. Grabbing his reins, Javier led his horse over to the young woman so she didn’t have to take another step. Always the gentleman. He put one foot in the stirrup, stepped up and swung his leg over to the other side. He offered his hand down to Miriam. “My lady.” She smiled deeply, drinking up his charm like it was some kind of irresistible liquor. Grabbing onto his hand, the male hoisted her behind him and like before she dangled both her legs over one side of Boaz. Her arms snaked round Javier’s waist and in doing so, Javier knew she was ready for their journey to start. “I’ll take you to Strawberry.” He kicked Boaz on for a canter. “We got into some trouble back in Valentine the same day we found you. It’s probably best we stay clear until things die down.”“How far is Strawberry?”“Just short of an hour’s ride. Maybe less.” He looked over his shoulder, raising an eyebrow. “You in a rush?”“N-No!” She blurted out, her fingertips clawing tighter at Javier’s denim jacket. He lowly chuckled.“Good. It’s a nice day. Just enjoy the ride.” She breathed out an ‘okay’ which wasn’t audible to her companion and took his advice. Clearing away from the direction of Valentine, Miriam took in the beautiful scenery of the Heartlands. It was breath-taking. Just land sprawling out for miles towards the horizon, with eagles taking flight in the sky and wild horses grazing in the distance. This place was so different to her home. ‘I can never go back there…’ She thought. Miriam tried to push the thought out from her mind and focused back on the angelic-seeming land around her. The wind weaved through her mahogany waves, almost stealing her breath away. Miriam held on tighter, excitement coursing through her veins due to this new found freedom. Javier could feel her energy radiate through him; his lip curled up in reaction. “You know, I came here about five years ago… Dutch found me trying to steal some chickens. Caught him doing the same. I was starving and he took me in. He fed me, gave me clothes and shelter. The rest is history.” She listened to the sound of his voice. For some odd reason, she found a lump forming in the back of her throat; grateful that he felt comfortable enough to share some of his past with her. She wished she could do the same.“Dutch sounds like a good man.”“He is. Loyalty is everything, Miriam. I’d fight for Dutch ‘til the end.”“Loyalty…” She muttered, thinking hard on the word. “Where were you before all this?” Javier was silent for a moment.“Mexico. I killed a powerful man… tsk.” He shook his head, letting out a deflated laugh. “Over a woman.” Miriam’s heart sank She lifted her head from his back, looking down to the earth.“Oh… you must have really loved her.”“… I did. But that was a long time ago.” There was honesty in his voice. It sounded like there was a deep wound and it had taken a long time to heal. She knew not to question about the matter further. The young woman tried her best to steer the conversation in a different direction but not too obviously.“Would you ever go back to Mexico?” He hesitated due to his thoughts conflicting with one another.“I want to… but I have the most wanted face in Mexico. If I step foot back there, I’ll be killed on sight.” He turned his head over his shoulder, changing the subject. “What about you?” She blinked.“Me?”“Sí. Where do you come from?” The question made her mind spiral. Her eyes flickered down and she tried to look everywhere but him.“I…” She wanted to tell him, yet the words could not leave her mouth. Fear crawled up her spine. She was terrified of exposing just part of her truth, knowing that danger could arise from it. The very man before her could possibly switch upon hearing the truth. She didn’t want to reveal nor let go of what she had. Although she felt as though she was in a state of purgatory, she appreciated and held dear the company which she currently shared between the Van Der Lin gang and Javier himself.“That bad, huh?” Miriam sighed; glad Javier wasn’t pressing on the matter. “I don’t think you ever told me your last name. You know… we could help you.”“I… I can’t tell you that.”“You can trust me.”“It’s not that… I just don’t want people to get hurt because of me.” He listened to her words. He found it somewhat admirable. He wanted to know who she was, yes, but if she wasn’t ready to tell him in that moment, then he would drop the matter for now.“Okay… tell me one day. When you’re ready.” He smiled. “I’d like to know the identity of the woman who saved my life.” Miriam’s arms tightened just a little more around his waist.“I will. I promise.” She whispered. The atmosphere was that of contentment. The fear that was looming over the young woman had fizzled into the air. The ride they shared was peaceful and it was fair to say that the both of them enjoyed each other’s company. Their tranquil silence lasted fifteen more minutes before Javier halted Boaz by a hitching post.“We’re here.” Javier dismounted and lifted down his companion with swift ease like before. “The general store is just up these stairs.” He went up a couple before twisting his body to outstretch his hand to Miriam. A laugh hitched in her breath, unable to keep up with his charmful mannerisms. She allowed him to take her hand, where she followed just behind. Before he opened the door, she stopped him, unintentionally pulling her hand from his grasp.“Javier!” She leaned in to whisper. “How am I to pay for these clothes?” He lifted his shoulders a fraction of a centimetre.“Don’t worry about it.” She frowned.“What?” He opened the door and as he did so, he leant down so his lips were near her ear.“I’ll handle it.” She bit her lip, trying hold back the returning urge to buckle at the knees. Gods, why did he have to do that? The pair stepped inside the door and they were greeted by the shop owner.“Hello. Haven’t seen your faces before. Welcome.”“Hello.” Miriam innocently greeted but unsure what to follow up with. Javier placed his hand on top of his head to push his hat down further before walking over to the shop owner.“My wife wants some new clothes.” The unexpected comment made her choke on the dry air. She leant over, putting her hand over her mouth to clear her airways. Javier rushed to her side, placing one hand on her back and the other on her hip. The touch gave Miriam goosebumps. “Forgive her, she’s been sick. It’s the first time she’s left the house in weeks.” She swooned at his words. One more comment about her being his wife and she was convinced she was going to collapse. She cleared her throat and delicately apologised to the shop owner. He nodded.“I understand. I’m glad you’re better ma’am.” The shop owner yelled over his shoulder, his voice travelling to the room hidden in the back. “Candice!” A woman in her late fifties came out, her silver hair pinned to one side with a dusty old comb and some iron-framed glasses resting on the tip of her nose. She wore bright red lipstick and wore a matching deep wine-coloured dress. “Can you help Misses…” He looked quizzingly at the ‘couple.’“Kilgore.” Javier responded.“Can you kindly help Misses Kilgore with some dresses.” The older woman smiled at the younger lady.“Oh, how lovely. Come in, come in.” She ushered. Miriam went into the room in the back and before Candice disappeared, she turned to Javier, giving him a playful wave of her hands. “You just wait outside now, Mister Kilgore.” She whispered with one hand over the side of her mouth. “We’ll be a few moments.”“Sure.” He replied, going to the exit. The tailor yelled over her shoulder.“I’ll have her looking shinier than a new cent piece!” Javier smirked, exposing a toothed grin which was mostly concealed by the shadow his hat cast. Once he was outside, Javier lit another cigarette. He leant against the outside of the building with one of his boots propped against it from behind. The male tilted his head back, taking in the sounds of this peaceful town. It was quieter than Valentine. Smaller too. He had only passed through here once before and thankfully hadn’t robbed anyone yet. Although he had no trouble in Strawberry, he felt it best to still use an alias whilst there. Even being so bold as to pretend Miriam was his sickly wife. He chuckled out loud, remembering her reaction.“¿Qué voy a hacer contigo...?” (“What am I going to do with you…?”) He muttered to himself.“Pst!” Javier frowned, pressing his teeth down just slightly on his cigarette. The voice sounded familiar. “Javier!” A masculine voice called out to him. Looking left and right, Javier walked down the steps and headed towards the sheriff’s office. “Over here!” Javier stopped, noticing the voice was coming from the side of the building. After taking another few steps, he saw Micah Bell clinging onto the jail bars. “Javier, you’ve got to get me out of here!” Javier snickered, turning to his side to take another drag.“You’ve gotten yourself into quite the situation, amigo.”“They’re talking of hanging me, Javier!” Micah hissed. Javier threw his cigarette onto the ground. A puff of smoke clouded around the Mexican’s face.“You see, amigo… I’d love to help you. I would.” Javier squatted down to Micah’s level, his elbows resting off his knees. “But I’m with a lady right now. And I don’t want to keep her waiting.” Micah scowled.“You good for nothin’ greaser.”“Fuck off, Micah.” Javier spat, despising the derogatory term. It was the one word that could get under his skin and cause upset. He put a hand over his mouth, his thumb and fingers circled round his facial hair. The dark-haired male shook his head, smirking as he truly found the man before him to be pathetic. “You know what. I’m gonna walk away and pretend I never saw you.” Seeing Javier get up and turn made Micah quiver with panic. He reached his arm out in desperation.“Wait, wait, wait! I didn’t mean it, amigo!” Micah cried out. Javier paused. “I don’t know how much longer I’ve got left in here. You can’t condemn me to this… C’mon, Javier!” The younger male exhaled heavily through his nose, reminding himself of the code he stood by.“I’ll get them to send Arthur for you.” Not wanting to give the man any more of his time, Javier walked back to the store which he left Miriam in; ignoring the pleads that came from Micah in his attempt to get Javier to change his mind and save him in that moment. Javier was not fond of Micah, but he kept it civil for the sake of Dutch and the rest of the gang. It had been a while since he left Miriam and thus, he walked back into the store to ask the shop owner for more details. “Excuse me, sir. How much longer-” Javier stopped dead upon seeing the sight before him. Miriam had walked out from the back room in a royal blue dress. It looked timeless. The bodice pushed against her breasts, making them more rounded at the top and her sleeves had a most intricate lace that cascaded over her shoulders and down to her forearms. She wore pearly white gloves which matched the gorgeous hemming patterns that framed the formation of the dress, attached with thin ruffles. She looked like she had stepped out of a masterpiece portrait. Her hair had also been tied back in a half up, half down do with a navy ribbon. Javier thought she looked… beautiful.“Are you okay?” Miriam asked, her big brown eyes boring into Javier’s. Javier freed himself from the trance and smiled purely at her.“Yes.” Miriam smiled brightly in return. The older woman came out with a velvet sack which contained a couple more dresses and undergarments. This would at least keep her going for another couple months. Candice stated that she would pack it on their horse whilst Javier paid for the goods. He didn’t care for the price he paid, his thoughts still dancing around how wonderful she looked. He felt a surge of confidence rise within him – after all, it was his idea that they should come into Strawberry to do this. Once Candice returned, the pair left the shop and Javier held onto Miriam’s hand, leading her down the stairs. He felt… lucky, to be walking alongside such a beauty. He held his head high, soaking in selfish thoughts of wanting to parade her around as his little wife for a while longer. Little did he know, from a distance, Micah was watching the couple like a hawk.The pair stopped once they got to Boaz and before Javier hopped up, he looked at Miriam, an idea sparking up. “You know… having such a pretty lady by my side… it wouldn’t be fitting if I asked her to sit behind me on the ride home.” She tilted her head to the side.“What do you mean?” He sat back into the saddle, looking down at her. His mouth was slightly agape and she could see him run his tongue over to the corner of his mouth. He held his hands out before him, gesturing to the front of the horse.“I think you should sit up front. Properly.” The suggestion shocked her. She looked to Javier, Boaz and then back to Javier.“Y-You mean… one leg on each side?” He nodded, giving a short nasally laugh. She wasn’t against the idea. In fact, seeing how Javier was being serious in his suggestion only encouraged her more. She had always wanted to ride a horse like ‘a man.’ Javier offered his arm to her.“Come on.” He pulled her up, one hand holding onto her arm and the other on her waist. After adjusting her dress’s skirt, she allowed her legs to dangle over both sides of the horse. She wiggled at the new sensation, not used to having her legs so spread out before. “How’s that?” A tingle ran down her spine hearing Javier’s voice from behind her. His breath was warm against the cold skin of her neck.“It’s strange.” Javier kicked Boaz lightly with the stirrups to get him to walk on. As they swayed gently with the movements of the horse, Javier looked around Miriam’s body, notably her lower half in response to her answer.“I think it’s your legs.” Miriam’s eyes widened. Before she could inquire on what he meant, he freed one of his hands from the reins and placed it on her inner thigh. “Difundirlas un poco más, cariño.” (“Spread them a little more, darling.”) How cruel he was, refusing to give her instructions which she would actually be able to understand. Yet she didn’t need to because his hand did the explaining. He pressed his hand firmly against her thigh and she knew what he meant. She widened her legs more, wiggling once again into position. “Good…” He praised, voice now deep. “Now sit back into the saddle.” Miriam shifted her behind further back until she came into contact with Javier’s groin.“Like this?” Unbeknownst to her, the rounds of her ass perched perfectly against his clothed cock. Javier’s breath escaped him unexpectedly. He tried his best to push his dirty thoughts aside and focus on getting her position correct.“Al igual que esa.” (“Just like that.”) His voice was so low yet soothing to Miriam’s ears. All the while, his hand had never left her inner thigh. Javier was fully aware of this. The intrusive thoughts within wanted him to trail his hand further in. Further to her core. He was curious whether she was feeling the heat too. If he were to snake his hand under her skirt now, would she be wet for him? By the Gods if she gave the word, he would take her off the horse and have her round the back of the Strawberry stables nearby. But in his mind, he convinced himself that she wouldn’t want someone like him. He was an outlaw. Not a good man by any means. He robbed, threatened, and killed people. She seemed so… gentle. Kind. Educated. Far from this outlaw life he lived. He was just… ‘a greaser’… to anyone who looked his way. Did she think of him as that?Javier looked over her shoulder and saw her expression from the side. Her big brown eyes, feathery lashes and a nose that curved up into a small button at the end. She had a shine in her eye. So innocent. So pure. So precious. He smiled and shook the thoughts. He knew she wasn’t like that. Wouldn’t ever view him in such a derogatory way. From his short time in knowing her, he knew she saw him as ‘someone’, not just a Mexican who fled from the law. “Here.” He spoke, offering her Boaz’s reins. “Why don’t you take us back?” She giggled, taking them.“You trust me?” He leant back cockily, his gaze still focused on her features.“You seem like a trusty-worthy woman.” It was her turn to snicker.“Why thank you.”“ ‘Course” Miriam turned her head to fully look at Javier, his confident gaze making her heart pound.“What if he bolts off?”“Ah, don’t worry. He won’t. I’ll control his speed; you just focus on the steering. Just don’t yank on his reins, it’ll hurt him.” Miriam adored the concern he had for his horse and nodded to his instructions. His heart was so golden. She had almost forgotten about his hand on her thigh until she felt both his hands all of a sudden place behind her knees. He grumbled something in her ear about her needing to relax and adjust her position one last time because her skirt was in the way. He hoisted her up above the horse a couple centimetres and as quickly as he lifted her, he placed her back down. Miriam gasped quietly at the sudden action and that very noise she made sent Javier crazy. His length beginning to harden at the thought of lifting her up by the backs of her knees like he had just done and ramming his cock into her from behind. His mind wandered off… Would she continue to make little gasps like that with each thrust? Would she mewl? Beg for his release? ‘Mierda’ He cursed to himself. His dick was fully erect from underneath his clothes and it made the journey back to camp so much more painful. Painful because he knew there wasn’t a damn thing he could do about his situation.The young woman had a blush spreading across her cheeks upon hearing how heavy Javier’s breathing was on her neck. It made her shudder – in a good way. “I’m okay to go a little faster, Javier.” ‘Don’t say things like that.’ He cursed once more in his mind. It took everything for this man to swallow that comment and just simply nod. Kicking a couple times, they were now at a canter. Miriam accidentally jerked forward, not expecting Boaz to go straight from the walk into a canter. Before she could lose her balance, Javier placed a strong hand on her lower abdomen to keep her seated.“Don’t worry, I’ve got you.” He whispered. Miriam bit the inside of her lip so hard she could taste blood. She loved the feeling of his hand. The inner thigh was nice but having it here, so much closer to her core felt exhilarating. The way his fingers pressed into her skin through the fabric of her dress, how his palm pushed against her every now and then. Her mind couldn’t help but imagine what his hand would feel like in between her legs, touching her pussy. How far his fingers could go inside her… She swallowed the blood in her mouth, the iron-taste a temporary distraction from her thinking about how wet she was getting for the man holding onto her. The feeling of not being able to relieve herself was horrible. Pure torture. One irrational part of her contemplated just asking Javier if he’d like to fuck her. Her innocent mind screamed at this thought. One of her hands quickly pressed against her cheek, trying to cool it down. She would never. It wasn’t the fact she’d never want to, but because she felt she would never have the confidence to do or say such a thing. She knew that she had to keep these thoughts to herself. But it was so hard to when she could feel his groin riding against her ass from behind. She could feel something hard prodding her, her oblivious mind unable to figure out what it was. All she knew was that it felt good.“Ah… Cariño. We’re back. Steer to the right.” She thanked the Gods the ride was almost over. Miriam followed his directions and brought them both back into camp successfully. Her chest was rising and falling from being so hot and bothered. Javier dismounted first before grabbing Miriam’s hips once she leant forward and swung her leg round. He eased her drop from the horse’s height with his strength. Miriam gave Javier a quick thank you before walking off right away. The outlaw didn’t think too much of it and just continued with taking off the sack of clothes from Boaz and placing it outside her tent. Miriam walked into the distance and stopped near the edge of the cliff. She tried her best to control her breathing but was unable to. The more she thought about that horse ride… what he was doing to her… the way he smiled… how he looked at her. She found the man so handsome and with those actions from earlier, it just elevated her feelings. How he so kindly paid for her things. Offered to ride her into town. Checking in on her the day before. Saving her life. Miriam placed a hand over her chest, frowning towards the midday sun. Her heart squeezed painfully. An Irish woman’s voice graced her ears.“You alright, pet?” Miriam smiled weakly.“Y-Yes. Thank you, Molly.” The red-head raised a brow.“You sure? You don’t seem like it.” She could see that Miriam was clearly hot and bothered, therefore putting it down to a hot flush. It was a warm day after all. Molly passed her fan to the younger woman. “Here.” Miriam accepted it, nodding her head in thanks. Immediately she started to fan herself rapidly to cool off.Meanwhile, Javier finally sat back down on the log by the camp’s unlit fire. The camp was too populated to be able to deal with his ‘problem’ so the next best thing he could do was pick up his guitar to hide it. His hands fiddled with the strings, trying to distract his mind. Although every now and then, he caught glimpses of Miriam from afar talking to Molly. Even from here he could see her flustered expression and he smirked as he thought to himself; perhaps he wasn’t the only one who enjoyed the ride.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
A month had passed since Miriam joined the camp. It was safe to say she had finally settled in. Dutch, Hosea and Miss Grimshaw were happy with Miriam’s progress and the other gang members had taken well to her. One word the gang would describe her as was “compassionate.” She was someone who would go out of her way to help others, even though she was a little quiet and sometimes shy.Dutch and Hosea shared the same opinion; Miriam was a wonderful addition to the camp and they could see everyone was in a better mood because of her presence. Dutch had some suspicions due to the lack of information he knew about her. Hosea however would reassure him that Miriam would reveal her past in due course. She just needed a little more time.Miss Grimshaw was happy there was someone as competent as Tilly around the camp. The only thing she disagreed with was some of the men being distracted from their guard duty to go speak to her whilst she was reading amongst the trees. She knew Miriam couldn’t exactly help that; it was more a lecture she would have with the gents.Mary-Beth was closest to Miriam, the two of them inseparable. Whether it was doing chores together, eating dinner or sat in each other’s tents just talking. Miriam was the Yin to Mary-Beth’s Yang. Miriam was quiet, preferred the night, looking up to the stars and staring at the moon, whilst Mary-Beth was bubbly, outgoing and preferred bright sunny days. Despite them both being inseparable, Miriam would still always escape the camp for a couple hours just so she could be alone in the woods.Tilly was a sweetheart to the newcomer. On par with Javier when it came to checking in on her. In return, Miriam would always make Tilly a cup of coffee for her in the morning.Karen on the other hand scared Miriam. They got on just fine, but at times, Miriam would find Karen’s boisterous manner to be intimidating. It was a quality she wished she had. Karen would often be in a tipsy state and wrap her arm around Miriam, telling her to trust no man and that she needs to take no shit from nobody. Despite the intimidation, Miriam did admire Karen for her confidence. She knew she was a ‘real one’ for advice. In turn, Miriam would always make sure Karen got to bed okay and poor water into her empty beer bottle. When Karen was drunk, she was none the wiser on what she was drinking.Molly O’Shea was somewhat of an idol to the young woman. She found her to be the most beautiful woman in camp (yet she thought all the women were beautiful) and would find herself sometimes watching Molly in the mornings. Just observing how she would do her hair and apply her lipstick. Skills which she would mentally note down. After all, Miriam wanted to look her best when she knew she was going to be around Javier.Abigail had spent the least amount of time with Miriam out of all the women, yet it never made the two women think any less of each other. When they would have their morning brew, the two of them always exchanged kind words and would talk about mostly Jack. Miriam was always happy to listen about Jack and how Abigail fell in love with John. It was something Miriam wished for. A family.Sadie Adler. What a woman. Sadie perhaps cared for Miriam the most out of everyone in the camp. She knew exactly what it was like to be the newcomer and to have people hounding you with questions that you didn’t want to answer. Often, she would stick up for Miriam, telling everyone to ‘get lost’ or ‘leave her the hell alone.’ Sadie would tell Miriam about what happened to her and her Jakey when the O’Driscolls came by. In turn, Miriam shared with her what happened that night in the cabin. She didn’t detail the full story, but explained that the O’Driscolls came and tried to assault her before wanting to take her away to Colm. Sadie understood her hurt and promised her that if she ever needed anything, Miriam could come find her. Miriam promised the same.Jack found Miriam just another pretty lady that joined the camp. Miriam found him incredibly cute and would offer to read to him sometimes, much to Abigail’s delight. The camp could get boring for a young boy at times so any possible way to entertain the boy was welcomed by his parents.John kept his distance from her. This was mostly down to the fact he was either arguing with Abigail about things or he was always off doing some sort of mission with Arthur. He thought Miriam seemed nice and was grateful she would watch over Jack if Abigail was busy.Arthur was lovely to Miriam. A man with high honour. If Miriam ever mentioned something that she missed such as a pair of earrings, Arthur would find a similar pair on his travels. He did this with all the gang members but Miriam appreciated the gesture a lot. The way she gave back to Arthur was by telling him about locations she had read about in her books, letting him know there might be things of interests for him to scribble down in his journal. One time he came back after a long ride out, visiting one of the spots she told him about; he would thank her, telling her it was worth checking out.Mr Pearson and Uncle were both sweethearts to Miriam. Most of the camp members were irritated by their presence, especially Uncle’s but she found the both of them to be the jolly spirit the camp needed. Although Miriam couldn’t contribute any food to Pearson, she would happily go get supplies for him at the general store. These visits were always accompanied by either Arthur or Lenny who would drive the wagon. Uncle on the other hand would always be telling Miriam stories of the good ol’ days and would manage to get sympathy off her when he talked about his underlying conditions. Miriam was an empathetic person, also gullible at times and would take the old man’s word for it. Despite his persistent talking, Miriam would never tell him to go away. She would always listen with her ears pricked and mind fully engaged.Reverand Swanson was someone who Miriam would hardly ever see. He was either passed out drunk in camp – or passed out drunk outside of camp. The bare minimum interactions they did have were Swanson telling her that she’s a sinful woman and that she needed to repent. Often this would lead to Javier scolding him, telling him to stay out of camp until he sobered up. In the past, a drunkard like that wouldn’t get to her, but after the things she did before she met the Van Der Linde’s… she felt there was truth to what Swanson was saying. Despite being upset by the Reverand’s interactions with her, she would always let one of the gang members know if she saw him wandering out of camp in a drunken daze. She never wished any harm on the man.Leopold Strauss was kind enough to her. If she ever needed a remedy, he would offer her something. He would constantly remind her that if she didn’t wrap up warm, she’d catch her death. When going into town, she would pick up any tonics that he was running low on. To be honest, she was perhaps the only one in camp who was actually nice to him. Not many people talked to Strauss. But she did. Even if it was just a ‘good morning’ or a ‘how are you?’ Strauss would appreciate those little exchanges.Kieran Duffy was someone who Miriam initially stayed far away from due to him having run with the O’Driscolls for a bit. One day she walked past the boy whilst he was tied up to a post and heard him crying, begging for some food and pleading out that he wasn’t an O’Driscoll. Being the empath she was, she couldn’t leave him like that. She gave Kieran her own bowl of food, seeing as the rations were running low one week. He thanked her profusely, saying he would never forget her kind deed. He was not someone she would go out of her way to make conversation with, but in the end, she realised that he was nothing like the O’Driscolls.Bill Williamson was an odd one. He was very vocal around camp. It didn’t take Miriam long to find out he was an ex American soldier dealt with a bad hand in life which gave him an excuse to be the way he was. She mostly stayed away from him, worried that he could explode at any moment due to his trauma. Yet she still wanted to try and see the good in everyone and always believed in giving people a chance. She would feel sorry for him when the other camp members picked on him for ‘screwing things up’ or being ‘stupid.’ Whenever he needed a repair, she would always fix his clothes up first, leaving them folded neatly by his tent. She had to be honest – she found him strangely sweet when he would reply with a bashful ‘uh… thanks’ followed by an awkward silence and then a swig of his beer. It was the most she’d get out of him, but she was fine with that.Lenny and Charles were gentlemen. Whenever they were around, Miriam felt most at ease. She knew there was not one bad bone in their body. Lenny would often ask about what story she reading and would even start imposing more questions about character’s back stories, scenic descriptions etc. He was a young man who just wanted to absorb information and it was adorable. Charles was quiet, more so than Miriam, but when he did talk to her, he was always courteous. Whilst out in the woods, the young woman would bring back hawk feathers for his arrows and oleander sage for him to use as poison. He’d give her a heartfelt thank you every time.Josiah Trelawny, she had met just once. He waltzed into camp one day and made his presence very known. He was intrigued by the newcomer, saying that she had a strangely familiar face. This panicked Miriam and she immediately brushed him off, saying she just had that kind of face. He pondered but left it alone saying that she was probably right. He seemed like a charming, flamboyant man but Miriam hoped she was never in the same space as him again. She couldn’t have anyone finding out who she was and exposing her past. Thankfully, he was someone who never stuck around for long and would disappear with a flick of the wrist.Sean was indeed a handful. The flirtiest one of them all. He’d always try to walk over to Miriam, complimenting her on how beautiful she looked. It would mostly end with Karen yelling at him or even Javier just simply giving a look that told him to go away. Javier just had that kind of look which would strike fear into people’s hearts. Miriam found it… very attractive. She was thankful that Karen never got antsy with her. Karen always blamed Sean for his playboy behaviour. Sean would try though. He’d insist on grabbing Miriam a beer or even a whiskey if she’d prefer. Miriam wasn’t a drinker, yet he would persist. Luckily, Sean did understand the meaning of the word ‘no’ (even if it was eventually) and would take a hint if Javier was staring at him nearby.Javier Escuella. Just thinking of him made her heart pump uncontrollably fast. Javier found himself becoming… almost obsessed with her. Every morning, noon and night he would check in on her. If he had to go on a mission, the last person he would speak to would be her. Returning? She was the first one he’d talk to. There was something about her that made his chest puff out and want to protect her. Whether it was making sure she was warm enough round the campfire, if she had eaten that day or if anyone had bothered her at all. He didn’t stay by her side though, not wanting the camp members to know of his obsession – especially Miriam. Perhaps it was the way she looked at him; looking so lost and helpless with her big brown eyes. He knew she could handle a knife but didn’t want to see her in that kind of situation again. At night, when he retired to his tent, all he could think about was her and those thoughts would keep him up at night. How her waves cascaded down over her bare shoulders, her cute plump cheeks and her luscious round lips. Occasionally he would give in to his dark desires and stroke himself to the fantasy of having his cock shoved down her pretty little throat. He would shudder at the thought of her trying so desperately to be able to breathe but would praise her for taking his cock so well. Ever since that horse ride back from Strawberry, he hadn’t been the same. And neither had she.The last member of the camp, she hadn’t met yet due to him being in jail. Yet that was all about to change.“Hello there, sweetheart.” Miriam looked up from the book she was reading by the campfire. She was sat on the ground, with her legs tucked away to the side. She blinked at the blonde male who was towered over her, his leg propped up on one of the large logs that lay across the dirt for gang members to sit on.“Hello.” She lightly replied, not knowing any better. Everyone knew not to give Micah Bell the time of day.“Ain’t you a pretty little thing, hm…” He muttered, a low growl forming in the back of his throat. He sounded feral. He gestured to the end of the log which was nearest to where she was sat on the ground. “May I?” She smiled.“Of course.” He rose an eyebrow. He was genuinely surprised by how… innocent she was. He let out a dark chuckle at this notion.“Very kind of ya, sweetheart.” He wasted no more time and perched himself next to her. The height difference giving him a flex which he used to his advantage. “So how you been keepin’, doll face?” He looked around then back at her. Micah seemed theatrical with how he expressed himself with his hands. “Everyone been… nice and all?” Miriam nodded.“Yes, thank you… um…” She blinked slowly, not actually knowing who he was. He laughed out loud at the realisation.“My, my! Where are my manners?” He grabbed her hand, making her drop her book. He placed a short and quick peck on the back of her hand. “Micah Bell the third.” Miriam blushed just a little at the action but thankfully it couldn’t be seen due to the flickering light of the fire in front of them.“Miriam.”“Miriam…?” He quizzed, trying to get her last name. She smiled nervously, retracting her hand.“I’d rather not say.” He would remember that. Micah was always good on picking up small connotations.“Ahh… a woman shrouded in mystery. What on earth did you do I wonder…” Her blood started to turn cold. “I mean it is strange you know. You’ve been with us for… a month now? And we still don’t know anything about you.” She started to get up, needing to remove herself from the situation. He instantly wrapped his hand around her wrist. “Ah, ah ah! Where’d ya think you’re goin’, sweetheart?” He pulled her down closer to his face. He scowled at her with his animalistic eyes. “I’m not done talkin’ to you.”“I am.” She counteracted. His mouth went agape, started to laugh at her comeback“Oh ho ho! You have a bite to ya! I like that. I really… like that in a woman.” She gritted her teeth, feeling her wrist start to ache.“You’re hurting me.”“Maybe that’s what I like to do, to pretty little things like you…”“Let her go.” Javier spat, walking over with a hand resting on his belt. Micah rose his eyebrow and looked both at Miriam and Javier. Another streak of laughter followed.“Oh. Oh ho ho… I see what’s goin’ on here.” Javier didn’t care for what Micah thought he knew. Micah stood up, squaring up to Javier. “Why don’t you fuck off back to Mexico? Hm?” Javier scoffed quietly. He was about to turn around when suddenly he smashed his fist into Micah’s face, causing the blonde male to fall on his ass. Javier towered over him, venom dripping with his words.“Why don’t you fuck off back to hell?” Javier looked at Miriam and lifted her up by her arm to usher her away. Micah took a second to register what had happened, holding onto his face.“You hit like you dress! All… feminine.” Javier stopped in his tracks but Miriam convinced him to just walk away. Miriam and Javier walked into the trees and once they were far enough away from camp, Javier put his hands on the young woman’s shoulders and spun her around to look at him.“Are you okay, mi amor?”“I’m fine but are you okay?” She rapidly responded, not even realising the change of nickname. She was so used to him giving her Spanish nicknames, she just guessed it meant something simple and non-endearing. And definitely not anything romantic. The corner of his lip tugged upwards. Just slightly.“Sí.” He frowned, looking down at her wrist. “He hurt you.”“It’s noth-” Javier’s hand lifted her wrist which Micah had squeezed badly. He could see fingernail marks imprinted on her skin and it looked as though a bruise was starting to form.“No me mientas.” (“Don’t lie to me.”) He hissed which made the young woman let out a shaky breath. She hadn’t seen this side of Javier before. She didn’t know what he had just said but she felt she knew roughly what he meant.“I’m sorry…” She was breathless as she watched how his dark eyes scanned over her injury. Her wrist was so close to his lips. His breath from his nose tickled her skin. Smoothly his hand slid along from her wrist to her palm; he wrapped his fingers around own and gave them a squeeze to make her look at him. He rose an eyebrow.“Should I go back and kill him?” His response made her let out a shaky laugh, smiling brightly with her teeth.“No. He’s not worth your time.”“But you are, mi armor.” There it was again. That familiar, sickly feeling she was forming in her belly. “I want you to know, Miriam… if you ever need me, I will never be too far away from you. Just call and I’ll be there.” She squeezed her thighs together, unable to break away from his smouldering gaze. She gave a couple little nods to him. He nodded once back and let go of her hand, walking away after taking one last look at her. She watched him leave her alone amongst the trees, with the moon shining through like a beacon of serenity. Miriam held onto her wrist, the one he had just held. She sighed with her head lowered.
‘Oh Javier… what are you doing to me?’
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
A lot had happened since Javier’s confrontation with Micah. Things had turned bad back in Horseshoe Overlook when Pinkerton agents had revealed themselves to Arthur whilst he was on a fishing trip with young Jack. Dutch had deemed it best that they move camp for the safety of the gang members. Charles and Arthur found a camp called Clemons Point and it was more beautiful than the latter. It was well hidden and had a lake which stretched out for miles. Hosea reminded Miriam that she was more than welcome to stay until she figured out what she wanted to – so that’s what she did; she stayed. She concluded she was safer with these people than out on her own, escaping from her past. More importantly, Javier was the main reason she wanted to stay. With each passing day, the man filled her mind more and more. Thinking back to the rescue, the horse ride back from Strawberry, to him standing up to Micah for her… but not just those things. Little things influenced her infatuation of him. The way he would tie his bandana around his neck, how he stood tall whilst on guard duty. The way he would shave, leaving his goatee and moustache. How he would shine his boots, taking pride in his appearance. To Miriam, he was the best dressed in camp and most of the other gang members would agree. She even caught Sean one time telling Javier that vanity was a sin and Javier threatened him in that suave way of his. He had such an alluring appeal to her when he would subtly threaten people like that.It was the first night at Clemons Point and everything had finally been set up by the best efforts of everyone. Once everything had been done and Miss Grimshaw was happy with the layout, Miriam was finally released and able to wander around camp. The wavy-haired woman rolled her head back and sighed in content as she made her way over to the water. The scenery was so tranquil. The crescent moon’s glow bouncing off the surface of the water making a most mystical haze. The stars twinkled, splattered like paint across the dark night’s glassy veil. She had only read about such landscapes in her books and it was truly breath-taking to see such sights in real life.Normally, Miriam would be reading at a time like this however she decided to spend her free time to help a certain someone with a clothing repair. Earlier, Javier explained how his jacket had gotten a tear in the arm area and Miriam offered to help fix it. Despite his pleads of telling her she didn’t need to trouble herself, she insisted. She explained that she wanted to do this for him, she just needed to help Grimshaw with her chores and she’d get right to it. So that is why Miriam now had Javier’s jacket in her arms. Finding a spot a little away from camp, sat on the shoreline by the water, Miriam tucked her skirt neatly over her folded legs that were out to the side and started threading a piece of cotton through a needle.“There you are.” A familiar warm voice spoke out, followed by his footsteps on the shore. “I thought you finally decided to leave us.” Miriam grinned at Javier’s words. She didn’t break her eyes away from the thread and needle.“I couldn’t possibly leave you all. Not just yet.” Javier leant down, peering over her shoulder.“And why’s that?” Once she finally pushed the thread through the end of the needle, she looked at him with a coy expression.“Well, you all just have… so many clothes to repair.” She flicked Javier’s jacket out so it was now across her lap. “You’d all have nothing left to wear if I were to go.” She joked to which Javier laughed.“Ah so it’s my clothes that keep you here, hm?”“Why of course Mister Escuella.” She teased, holding back a laugh. “You are the best dressed man in camp.” He cockily smiled, looking away.“Well, I try.” He fiddled with his white sleeves, rolling them back into the crevice of his elbows. “Especialmente para mi chica.” (“Especially for my girl.”) Miriam looked at Javier, raising an eyebrow.“I wish you would teach me more, Javier. I’d like to know what you’re saying to me.” Javier gestured his hands out, straightening his back. He tried to find an excuse to delay his teachings for her, after all, he still got drunk off that innocent and puzzled expression she would give him every time he spoke to her in Spanish.“I’ll teach you if… you teach me something.” She scoffed looking around.“Like what?” There was a pause. His eyes then shot to her sewing needle. He pointed.“Teach me to sew.” She blinked a couple times.“What, now?”“Sí.” Javier then sat down behind her with his legs either side of her body. His closeness got Miriam nervous again. “With you as my teacher, I’m sure I’ll pick it up quick.” His body arched over hers, his head able to look over her shoulder to get a full view of her hands and lap. He took the needle from her hand, the thread falling out from the end. “What do I do with this?” Miriam smiled, shaking her head. Both her tiny hands grabbed onto his large one. He couldn’t help but adore the way they looked holding onto his.“First you need to thread the needle.” His eyes dropped down to where the thread was and picked it up with his spare hand.“This?” He gruffly asked.“Yes. You need to push it through that tiny hole at the end of the needle.” Miriam let go of his hands so he could try and connect the two. He strained his neck forward, frowning at the difficulty of it.“Mierda. How are you supposed to do this?” She smiled softly at his frustration.“If you can’t get it through, you just need to wet the end.” Once again, Miriam held onto Javier’s hand; the one which was holding the thread, with both of hers. She looked at the small piece of cotton that poked out from his fingers and she placed her lips over it. The tip of her tongue poked out, soaking the thread with her saliva. Javier watched intently with his copper eyes. To him she had the most pretty little mouth. He fantasied putting his index and middle finger between her lips and how she would obediently run her tongue over them. He swallowed watching Miriam pull her lips away. She let go of his hands so he could thread it through which he successfully did after a couple attempts. After that she taught Javier the basics of sewing with her small hands guiding his big ones, he started to repair the jacket. Every time she would let go of his hands; Javier would make out he needed help just so she could hold onto him again.God, he thought she looked beautiful between his arms.“So… can you please teach me some Spanish?” Miriam hummed. He didn’t say anything, just smirked. She turned her head just a little to look at him. Their lips were inches away. “Or least just translate what you said earlier?” He let go of the fabric, leaning back on his hands to take a break whilst he cracked his neck. Miriam helped finish off the repair.“What’s something you like?” She contemplated the question and looked up to the sky.“Well… I like the moon and the stars.”“What about them?”“They’re… beautiful. They truly make me feel safe. At peace. Others find nights like these lonely, but I find them comforting. Whenever I’ve felt alone in the past… I always look up to the night sky. It makes me realise I’m not alone in this world.” Javier cocked his head to the side to try and see her face. The moon’s light sparkled against her skin. She looked as though she had been touched by an angel. To him, she had a sweet way with words. He leant forward again and pointed up to the moon.“Luna.” Javier stated. She repeated the beautiful word. He then gestured out to the stars. “Estrella.”“Es…strella.”“Sí.” Without thinking about it, Javier’s hand went to her waist. “So, you could tell someone you really care about, this… tu eres mi luna y estrellas.” Miriam turned around in his lap, now on her knees looking up at him. She playfully raised an eyebrow.“And what does the first part mean?”“It means…” His middle and index finger held onto a few strands of her hair and placed them over her shoulder. “tu eres… you are… mi luna y estrellas… my moon and stars.”“Tu eres… mi luna… y estrellas.” She repeated. His fingertips brushed over the lengths of her own fingers. She was too captivated in his gaze to notice. Javier’s eyes bore into hers.“Sí.” Then something in her clicked. The way he was looking at her; it made her realise that he was saying those words to her. Her heart sped up in its beats. Her blood felt on fire as it rushed down her neck and chest, straight to her core. He was looking at her so serious. His eyes were hungry yet needing. Full of want. ‘Could he…’ She thought to herself, her heart swelling at the idea that this man could possibly feel the same way about her as she did for him.“Javier…” He held tightly onto her hand, making sure she stayed.“Miriam.” He sharply stated.“THHHH…EEERREEE you two ARReeeee…!” A low voice belonging to a woman echoed across the shoreline. The couple pulled away from each other, looking at who it was. It was Karen and she was clearly in quite a drunken state. “I’ve been lookIN’… EVERYWHeeeeRRee for yoouuu.” Javier scowled, running a hand through his hair, stopping when he came to the band that held his ponytail.“I think you’ve had too much.” He muttered with a hint of annoyance in his tone. Karen’s mouth went into an ‘o’ shape at the remark.“What’s PISSED in yuuuurr BOOOts. HM?” Miriam smiled nervously, not wanting the two to get into any sort of conflict. She gave the fully repaired jacket to Javier.“Karen…” Miriam got up, placing her hands on Karen’s arm to guide her back into camp. “Let’s get you to bed.”“I DON’T neeeeed BaByInGG!”“I know. But you want to end the night on a good note, right?” Karen slumped over, looking at Miriam. Slowly Karen broke out into a huge grin. She booped Miriam on the nose.“Yuuuur a good friend.” Shaking her head with a small laugh leaving her lips, Miram helped guide the blonde to her tent.After Karen had been settled down and passed out in her bed, everyone else had retired to their own tents by that time aside a couple members. Miriam was in her own tent, led down on her back in just her undergarments. It was raining outside and the sound of the droplets smashing against the tent soothed Miriam’s ears. The very sound gave her goosebumps and would often lull her to sleep. Unfortunately, she wasn’t able to fall asleep. Miriam’s mind was on Javier and the man was driving her insane. ‘Was that a confession?’ She’d think to herself along with many other impending thoughts. ‘Does he… like me? Like really like me?’’ ‘Does he do this to all the other women?’ ‘What if he’s just teasing me? What if… it’s some sick twisted game.’Miriam panted at the idea. If it was just a game to Javier, it was the cruellest thing he could do. She rubbed her thighs together to relieve the desirable feeling growing between her legs. ‘God… I like him so much.’ Her hand trailed down underneath her undergarments, her middle finger touching her clit. She hissed at how cold her finger was compared to her core which was burning hot. Her middle finger went further down to her opening and she couldn’t believe how sopping wet she was from just thinking about Javier. She swiped her finger back up to her clit, coating it in her juices. She rubbed it in circles, toes curling at the sensational feeling that coursed through her veins. ‘Oh Javier…’The cocoa-haired woman rolled onto her front, pushing her arm further down into her undergarments. She pretended it was Javier’s fingers instead of her own. After teasing her clit for a few seconds, she pushed her middle finger into her pussy. She could hear the squelch of her liquids over the sound of the rain. She gasped at the cold temperature inside her. Miriam pressed the back of her hand into the ground and angled her middle finger out straight so she could begin to ride it. She imagined Javier whispering words of Spanish in her ear before telling her how much of a whore she was being for him, getting all worked up like this.“Javier…” She whispered. A small patch of drool formed on her folded-up dress coat she used as a pillow. Her hips rolled more into her hand, her palm brushing against her clit. She frowned, tears welling up in her eyes at the thought of him being so cruel to her whilst he pumped his fingers into her. She added her index finger, a couple tears rolling down her face. ‘Can you handle it, cariño?’ She imagined him whispering in her ear. ‘Or should I stop?’“N-No! Don’t stop…” She begged to herself. By the Gods she could just imagine the smug look on his face, seeing her in this state over him. “M-Mmm… Make me come… Javier…” She arched her fingers into a hooklike shape to scrape against her g-spot. ‘Like this, cariño?’ “Y-Yes!” She panted harder, almost starting to hyperventilate. She grinded harder into her hand, going dizzy at the immense pressure building up in her core. Miriam’s chest went tight. “J-Javi… Javi…” Her back arched and she lifted her head with her eyes shut feeling her orgasm overtake her body. She badly wanted to cry out his name but she knew she would wake everyone up, even if the rain was loud tonight. All she could do was hang her mouth wide open and grind harder into her palm, feeling her clit twitch in undying excitement. The ecstasy shot through her body, all the way to her toes.When it was over, she let out a huge sigh, shaking violently as she dropped herself onto her belly. She pulled her fingers out from her undergarments and looked at them seeing how wet they were. Her cheeks blushed into a violet glaze as she grabbed a rag that was beside a bucket. She wiped her fingers clean before soaking her hands thoroughly in the bucket. She even splashed some water over her face to make herself cool off from the intense experience. She had touched herself before but it had never been as wild as that. Just thinking of the man now, even after her orgasm, shot a hot arrow into her core. Miriam could easily get herself worked up again over him.Trying to push her impure thoughts away, she laid down on her side and shut her eyes. She focused on the rain and smiled. Perhaps she didn’t just like him.It might have been something more.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
God rays descended upon the land of Lemoyne. The evening sun beginning to set. Sky was golden across the lake, ripples of the light’s touch floating away to the horizon. It was as though the area had been blessed by the heavens. A truly angelic scene before the souls in camp. Mary-Beth stood on the shoreline with Miriam; the two women just enjoying the view.“Ain’t it beautiful?” Mary-Beth said, sighing dreamily. “It’s just like that book you’ve been readin’. You know. Before they go save the girl?” Miriam sighed too in contentment.“Yeah. I love that part.” Mary-Beth gave Miriam a coy smile.“Well at least one of us already has a knight willing to rescue you at any given moment.” Miriam blinked at Mary-Beth.“How do you mean?” The freckled woman elbowed Miriam.“You know… Javier…” Mary-Beth teased.“Shhh!” Miriam loudly proclaimed, looking around to make sure no one had heard her.“Oh, c’mon now! I can see through y’all so clearly.” Mary-Beth widely grinned, loving the idea of gossiping with her close friend. “You can tell me, Miriam. I won’t tell a soul.” Miriam looked away, staying silent. Mary-Beth begged. “C’mon!” She grabbed onto Miriam’s hands, hunching over to whisper. “From one hopeless romantic to another. Do ya like him?”“I…” Avoiding Mary-Beth’s eyes, Miriam looked to the water debating whether it was a good idea to let down her walls. However, when she looked back at her friend, seeing how gleeful she looked, Miriam couldn’t help but place her trust in her. “Yes.” Mary-Beth squealed in a high-pitched tone that would surely alert anyone nearby. “Shhh!” But the bubbly woman couldn’t help but feel giddy happiness for her friend. Mary-Beth’s hands squeezed Miriam’s tighter.“Does he know?” Miriam’s eyes widened in shock. She shook her head almost violently.“Of course not!” Mary-Beth then had a revelation come to her.“You have to tell him!”“No.” Miriam immediately shut it down, pulling away from her friend’s hands. Keeping her head down, she walked further along the shore.“Oh c’mon, Miriam! You have to.” Suddenly another voice joined the women’s conversation.“She don’t have to tell anyone, shit.” It was Sadie. The blonde woman had a hand on her hip, her cowboy hat blocking the sun from hitting her eyes. She had a new look to her. A new attitude. Her heart had time to heal. She wasn’t going to let anybody walk all over her, or Miriam for that matter. “Not if she don’t want to.” Sadie looked to Miriam who clearly looked uncomfortable. “What’s this about?”“Miriam likes Javier!” Mary-Beth whispered loudly, squeaking this time.“Mary-Beth!” Miriam scolded, looking at her young friend in disbelief. So much for not telling a soul.“It’s only Sadie! If anyone is gonna knock some sense into you, it would be her! I won’t tell anyone else I promise.” Miriam sighed, feeling so incredibly bashful all of a sudden. She had her arms crossed over her chest, one hand rubbing over her eyebrows.“I know, Mary-Beth… I just…” Sadie looked at the newcomer with sombre eyes.“-you don’t know how to tell him.” Sadie finished for her. Miriam’s eyes saddened, nodding. The chestnut-haired woman knew that Sadie had a double meaning to her sentence; and she was right. It wouldn’t be just a confession of feelings, but a confession of her past. Mary-Beth looked concerned at the both of them, not expecting the mood to go so blue. “Mary-Beth, could you please give us a moment alone?” The girl nodded, understanding that Sadie knew things that she didn’t.“Well alright then.”“And don’t go telling anybody, ya hear?” Sadie threw over her shoulder as Mary-Beth walked away.“I won’t. Just… knock some sense into her, okay? Love is a beautiful thing, ya know?”“Yeah… I know.” A mournful expression spread across Sadie’s features. Oh, how she missed her Jakey. He was a good man. Swallowing the lump in her throat, Sadie exhaled and toughened herself up. “So, you like the guy, huh?” Miriam nodded gently. “Then tell him ya like him. That part is easy.”“How is that easy?!” Miriam uttered which caused Sadie to put her hand up.“I ain’t finished.” The widow took a couple steps towards her friend to properly look her in the eye. Sadie had a serious look in her eye, her eyebrows furrowed together to brace Miriam for what she was about to say next. “But telling him that ya love him is different.” Miriam’s ears and cheeks grew warm. She smiled, scoffing delicately at Sadie’s words.“Who said I love him?” Sadie rolled her eyes.“I can see it in your eyes, ya fool.” Her words stung. “It’s…” Sadie lowered her head. “It’s how I used to look at my Jakey…” Miriam’s heart squeezed for the woman, total admiration for how strong she was. Gritting her teeth, she looked back to Miriam. “Look. Tell him ya like him. Sure. Tell him ya wanna bed him for all I care. But-” Sadie placed her hand on Miriam’s upper arm. “If you ever want to tell him ya love him… you need to tell him the truth. About who you are, where you came from…” Sadie frowned but with a soft look in her eye. “And what you’re running from.” Tears prickled Miriam’s eyes, threatening to spill.“But I can’t, Sadie.”“Yes. Yes. You. Can.” Both her hands were now on Miriam’s arms. “You’re a strong woman. If he’s even half the man you think he is, he’ll understand. He’ll accept you. He’ll forgive you.” A couple tears fell down Miriam’s cheek.“What if he doesn’t?”“Then he ain’t the right one, honey.” Sadie let go of Miriam’s arms, allowing the young lady to wrap her arms back round herself and sob quietly. Sadie gave a weak smile. “But hey- that’s if you ever want to tell him. You might fancy yourself a nun and be done with men!” Miriam choked out a laugh amidst her sobbing. Sadie allowed there to be a moment of silence. “Just… just know, Miriam, that love comes with the bad stuff as well as the good. You can only love someone for who they really are. If you ever expect Javier to return your feelings… ya need to be honest with him. Otherwise, the whole thing is just a lie. A sweet dream.” Sadie turned around but looked over her shoulder one last time at her friend. “And all dreams come to an end eventually.” Then Sadie was gone.Miriam looked up to the sky, seeing the cobalt colours begin to pierce through the golden veil of the sunset. Light turning into night. She placed a hand on her cheek, rubbing away her tears. She was so afraid. Of course, Sadie didn’t fully understand what Miriam had done in her past, but what if Javier couldn’t accept her for what she did? For who she really was? ‘Then he ain’t the right one, honey.’ Sadie’s voice echoed in her mind. Miriam wanted to believe with all her heart that Javier was a good man deep down. That perhaps he was the one. Needing to avert her mind, the young woman walked back into camp and towards her tent. Kneeling inside she opened her chest of belongings and reached for a piece of paper that was inside an envelope at the bottom. Pulling it out, her fingertips traced over the ink. It was for Mr & Mrs Voltare, addressed to a location near Annesburg. Her parents. Gripping it tightly in her hands, she looked around for her satchel and slipped it inside. She had to post it that evening before any more trouble could ensue.Miriam left her tent after putting on her dress coat to wrap up warm for the night ahead. Her eyes scanned the camp looking for Javier’s location. She spotted him sat at the table, carving little marks into the wood with his knife. Bill had just bothered him previously which caused the Mexican to have a scornful look on his face. It looked as though he wanted to be left alone. But Miriam was desperate for his help. She didn’t feel confident taking a horse out on her own yet and with the darkness soon beginning to taint the skies, she would feel safer with Javier being with her. Slowly she approached the man head on, not wanting to startle him especially when he had a sharp blade in his hands.“Javier…” She carefully called out. His eyes lifted from the oak table and they came to life upon seeing her.“Ah, mi amor. Come for some more Spanish lessons?” She shook her head with a smile.“No… I came to ask for a favour.”“¿Qué es?” (“What is it?”) Figuring he was most likely asking her what she needed, she pulled the envelope just slightly out of her satchel. She didn’t want him to see the writing.“I have a letter I really need to post.” Javier frowned a little, raising his scarred eyebrow.“Now?” It was starting to get dark and the tone of his voice suggested his disapproval for her wanting to do this so late at night.“I need to post it whilst it’s quiet.” She tilted her head, giving him a gentle, apologetic smile. “I was hoping you could take me?” He leant back in his seat. He looked around in contemplation before finally looking at her to respond. He was reluctant, not sure why she was being so secretive.“Alright.”“Thank you.” The walk over to Boaz was quiet. Before Javier mounted, he had put his poncho back on along with his bowler hat knowing the night was going to be cold. Sitting in the saddle, he reached down for Miram’s arm and pulled her up behind him. Like before, she wrapped her arms around him and pressed her cheek against his back. The familiar feeling of his poncho relaxed her. It smelt of cigarettes and whiskey – just like him. Kicking Boaz on, they left the safety of the camp and got onto the road. Javier turned his head back to speak to Miriam.“Which post office?”“Wallace station.” His eyes widened at her command.“Wallace- Miriam, that’s quite a ride. Why do we need to go that far?”“I know someone there. He’s… he’s very discreet.”“Ay dios Mío…” (“Oh my God…”) He muttered, kicking Boaz into a gallop. “We’ll need to ride fast then.” Her arms tightened around him, feeling the wind whip past her face almost knocking the air from her lungs. Most of the journey had been silent which concerned Miriam. Usually, Javier was one to make some kind of flirtatious remark to her. But not this time. He seemed annoyed. Was it because of Bill? Or had she pissed him off because of her request? Her eyebrows knitted together.“Javier… I’m really grateful.” He didn’t respond which really hurt her. “You didn’t have to take me, you know?” At last, he responded.“Why so secretive? You’re needing to post letters late at night now? What’s next?” Her slender fingers scrunched up, firmly holding the fabric of his poncho. It pained her hearing him be so suspicious of her. “Is there someone I should know about?” His words stabbed through her heart.“Javier, it’s not like that.” She tried to reason but Javier was the jealous type thus meaning he could not be reasoned with.“Then what is it like, hm?” Javier gritted his teeth. “You needing me to sneak you out late at night to post some letter you won’t even tell me about?”“It’s my business, Javier.” Her head was now well away from the contact of his body. Knowing this, Javier looked over his shoulder with a disdainful look.“You married?” Her lips pursed together, trying to not form a lump in her throat.“No. Like I said, it’s nothing like that.” She firmly stated, not wanting to hear any more of it. Miriam decided that silence was the best thing for them. The journey was awkward. Painfully awkward. Nothing could be heard in the night other than the sound of Boaz’s hooves thundering against the dry earth. All Miriam wished for in that moment was for the journey to be over. She had even contemplated staying at the station for the night, not sure if she could face the journey back if Javier was going to be like this. It was only when Miriam felt Boaz slow down in his gait, did she realise they were finally at their destination. Before Javier’s horse could even halt, Miriam slid down onto the ground with a thud and proceeded to walk through the door that led inside to the station clerk. The quick action surprised Javier, noting that he might have upset her judging by the way she was behaving. He groaned to himself, muttering something about women being difficult but he dismounted, giving Boaz a pat before following in behind her.When Javier entered the station, he saw Miriam leaning over the station clerk’s counter, whispering. Due to no one else being in there, he could hear their exchange.“Thank you, Alden.”“No problem, ma’am. I’ll make sure this gets delivered… quietly. No questions asked.” The man had a funny voice to him which made Javier sneer. Noting Javier was now present in the building, Miriam cleared her throat giving the signal for Alden to drop the subject. Holding her hands in front of her, the young woman turned to Javier.“Thank you for bringing me. You head back. I’ll stay here for the night.” She smiled weakly, hoping he would be happy now that he was rid of her. Instead, he gave a small glare which was hard to see due to the shadow cast by his hat.“Here? Don’t be stupid.” Her face scrunched into a frown.“You’re clearly annoyed by my presence, so just leave me here.” He scoffed. There was a moment’s pause before he stepped forward and grabbed onto Miriam’s wrist.“I’m not leaving you here.” Much to Miriam’s protests, Javier pulled the young woman out from the station and onto the road. She retracted her hand from his grip and turned her back to him. A slight fear possessed her. She didn’t want to ride back in awkward silence with him. She thought so much of Javier and knowing that he was annoyed at her killed her on the inside. One foot in front of the other, she began to walk away, getting off the road and walking amongst the trees down the hill. “What is your problem?” He yelled out after her.“What is my-” She looked over her shoulder with a stern expression. “What is your problem, Javier?” Her footsteps were heavy due to the vast decline of the landscape. “I only asked you to take me. You could have said no and I would have been fine.” He snickered, following her down the hill.“And what, let you ride out on your own? Risk you getting captured by O’Driscolls?” His stride got longer, trying to catch up to the girl. “What’s so important about this letter anyway? That you’re risking your safety for?”“Javier…” She breathed out, a lump forming in her throat. Panic was beginning to set in. Her urge to tell him the truth had heightened but the fear of him hating her… endangering him, was far greater. She didn’t want to hurt this man more than anything. “I can’t tell you.”“Why not?!” He spat. “When will you be ready to tell me? It’s been a long time, Miriam…” Javier stopped walking after her. He looked at her figure with eyes that held hurt. “Do you not trust me?” Her heart cracked through the middle, hearing his voice fall dark. She turned around, looking at the man before her. She called out his name, gritting her teeth to try and hold back the tears. Walking forward, her hands held onto one of his large ones, bringing it to her chest.“I do. I promise you I do.” Javier’s free hand went to Miriam’s cold cheek. The night’s air nipped at her skin and she leant into his hand, welcoming his warmth.“Then tell me the truth.” One of her hands went to his hand which was on her cheek. Her thumb brushed over his skin. She went to open her mouth to speak but no words left. It felt impossible to say a word. “Miriam…” Her eyes bore into his dark amber ones. “Who are you?” The want in his voice rattled through to her core. Never had she seen him vulnerable. Miriam parted her lips. She was going to tell him-“Looks like they came through here.”“Can’t have gone far.” The voices startled the couple and out of reflex, Javier pushed Miriam up against a tree to hide them both. He had his hand over Miriam’s mouth and nose, leaning into her so she wouldn’t budge to alert the strangers of their location. Javier looked up the hill, seeing lanterns flickering about and the famous black and green attire of Colm’s men became evident. He hushed Miriam’s mumbles from under his hand.“Shh… O’Driscoll’s.” Miriam’s eyes widened, fear pumping through her veins and across her whole body. Javier listened out, peering now and then from the tree they were hiding behind. Suddenly a lantern was held down further from above, causing its light to shine through the trees past Javier’s face. He quickly hid his head back behind the broad trunk.Javier’s nose was now close to Miriam’s ear. She could feel his breath on her neck making her chest ride and fall. Their bodies were pressed together which meant Javier could feel Miriam’s chest pushing against his own with each breath she took. His thigh was pressed against her core and he had only realised this when she tried to adjust herself from the sensation. He turned his head to look into her scared eyes. Gods he thought she looked beautiful. Miriam tried shaking her head but Javier’s hand over her mouth was pressed too firm for her to do anything about it. Her lips brushed over his calloused hand whilst one hand went to his chest and the other clung over the hand across her face. She didn’t struggle but instead just held onto him.Hearing the voices start to disappear into the distance, Javier released his hand from her mouth but kept her pressed against the tree. He put his index finger over his lips, signally for her to remain quiet as the enemy gang was still in the area. She nodded shortly. His eyes fell to her lips and they trailed down to her throat, watching her swallow her saliva in anticipation. She was beginning to feel hot and bothered from being so close to the Mexican. Especially when he accidentally pressed his thigh a little closer to her core. She grunted in a high-pitched tone which made Javier begin to feel feral. Those cute little noises she was making every time he did something. Her small sounds of pleasure; it was making his vision hazy. He resisted every devilish thought of just lifting her up onto his hips and fucking her against this tree.His lips brushed over her jawline just barely and they hovered over the top corner of her neck, just under her ear. She was finally so close to him. He was a man under the spell of love and lust. He couldn’t just do nothing. He kissed her neck and Miriam’s body arched into his, her hands moving from his chest to his shoulders. She closed her eyes, rolling her head to the side, away from his kiss. Not out of disgust but wanting him to cover her whole neck with his kisses. She could hardly believe what was happening. She welcomed it whole-heartedly.Butterfly kisses followed in suit one after another in that one spot under her ear, his tongue slipping out to taste her neck. The frosty air bit at the saliva on her neck, causing the young woman to shiver in delight. Her hips shuffled about thus rubbing her clothed pussy against his leg more to relieve that familiar pressure forming in her gut. Javier pressed his hips into hers where his erect cock could be felt through the fabric of her dress. Feeling his member against her body made her let out a very shaky breath. Miriam had almost convinced herself this was just another one of her fantasies. That it was all in her head. However, when Javier feathered his kisses down to the crook of her neck, begging to suck on the skin, her mind was brought back to reality and she gasped just above a whisper.The dark-haired male put his hand to her throat. He didn’t squeeze but he pressed his thumb ever so gently on her oesophagus; his way of silencing her. He pulled his lips away from the area he had been sucking on to swipe his tongue over the pink patch, only to press his lips back over to continue with his lustful assault. Miriam’s fingers dug into his shoulders, her head banging back against the tree. His lips felt so good on her neck and she didn’t want it to stop. She wanted him. And he wanted her. A twinge of pain could be felt on the part he was abusing with his lips which made the girl wince.“J-Javier…” She managed to call out in a confined whisper. Hearing her song-bird voice, his lips pulled away; a purple blotch having been left behind. The animalistic side of him had to leave a mark. He wanted her to wake up each day and see it, to remind herself who did it do her and remind her of how good it felt when it happened.He couldn’t stop there. The hand which was around her throat moved up to her jaw and this time he did squeeze. He looked hungrily into her eyes; his own breathing now heavy. Javier said nothing to her. He simply enjoyed watching how her pupils dilated, wanting to absorb every essence of him. He lowered his head to where her cleavage was. He ducked his head down where he placed noisy and breathy kisses between her breasts. This caused Miriam to lift one of her legs and Javier’s free hand hooked under it to hold her steady. That same hand trailed under her skirt, his fingers brushing over her inner thigh. He squeezed the flesh hard causing Miriam to push her clothed pussy against his concealed cock even more. If it weren’t for the fabric restraints, he would already be inside her by now.“Mierda. Mira lo que me haces.” (“Shit. Look what you do to me.”) Her head spun; turned on by the Spanish he uttered against her cleavage. The thrill of not knowing what he was saying made her even more sopping for him. His tongue licked all the way up from her breasts to the centre of her throat. Javier looked into Miriam’s eyes once more. She had the most adorable band of red going across her cheeks and nose. Her lips were parted, her lungs trying their very best to grab oxygen. His thumb brushed over her bottom lip. Miram held onto his hand, looking back into his eyes with such desire… and love.“Javier.” She panted out once more and that was all he needed to lean down to press his lips over hers. His lips were so warm against her own; she opened her mouth further wanting more of him. His tongue pushed into her mouth to rub his muscle against hers. She mewled, completely succumbing to him. Miriam felt her breath being sucked from her from the kiss being so long. Showing her mercy, Javier pulled away, a string of saliva connected to his tongue and her lips. He used his thumb to brush it away over her lips, his hand resting calmly on her scorched cheek.“Come on. Let’s get back.” He whispered, still aware they needed to escape the O’Driscolls. He released her thigh and removed his hips from hers. She felt so weak at the knees that she ended up almost falling over if it weren’t for Javier snaking his arm around her waist. “Cuidadosa, cariño.” (“Careful, darling.”) She bit her lip, a look of bitterness across her face at how unrelieved she now felt. Her pussy was still throbbing for him and now they had to return to camp. It wasn’t fair. Javier too felt the same. He knew that if the O’Driscolls weren’t there, he would have already had his wicked way with her.Sneaking back up the hill, the couple made it back to Boaz. Javier sighed in relief, mounting his steed. “Quick…” He whispered to the woman, offering her his hand. Before she could place her hand in his, a bullet suddenly grazed across Javier’s thumb. He yelped out in pain, looking desperately to find where it came from.“There they are! He’s got her!” Miriam’s heart leapt from her chest, eyes of concern looking at Javier’s bleeding hand.“Javier!” Being no time to worry over his wound, Javier’s bloodied hand held onto hers and he pulled her onto the front of the horse where her legs dangled on either side. He kicked and yelled for Boaz to go on to which he obeyed his master. The sound of whistles could be heard behind them as a group of O’Driscolls mounted their own horses to pursue the couple.“Grab the reins!” Javier commanded. Miriam grabbed hold of them, concerned.“W-Why me?” Javier reached down to his holster and pulled out his silver-plated double action revolver.“I’ll take care of them.” His voice sounded so menacing; his chest inflated out with the need to protect. His courage radiated through Miriam and she focused on the road. “Just don’t lead them back to camp.” She nodded, steering Boaz off the path and into the wilderness. Despite the differing levels of the ground as they rode, both Boaz and Javier worked together like the duo they always had been. Javier twisted his body rounded to fire his gun, its distinct sound echoing through Miriam’s ears. She winced, not used to being so close to a firing arm before. A high pitch ring snaked through her ears, almost altering her vision.“We’re gonna kill ya, boy!” The man who spoke those words met with a bullet through his eye.“Shit! You fuckin’ greaser!” Javier ducked from the bullets that fired his way. “As soon as we get the girl, we’re gonna pay your leader a visit! We’ll be sure to kill everyone!”“And you can watch, girlie!” Another taunted.“Get down!” Javier shouted, pushing the back of Miriam’s head down so she didn’t get hit. A sharp yell escaped from Javier’s lips as he hunched over in excruciating pain. Miriam’s eyes widened at the realisation.“Javier!” Blood seeped out from his back where his ribcage was. He clutched to it with his free hand, his teeth grinding together hard.“Keep… riding…” He managed to groan out, still shooting over his shoulder when he could. Knowing it was nowhere near safe for them to stop, all Miriam could do was continue steering Boaz away from the conflict, hoping he could outrun them. Javier had managed to kill most of the group and the last couple of them who remained were beginning to disappear behind them. Javier groaned, leaning onto Miriam’s back. She looked over her shoulder to see if she could see their pursuers anymore and she smiled.“We’ve lost them, Javier. We-” Javier was mute, only the sounds of his heavy breathing could be heard. Her breath hitched in her throat. “Javier?” A very quiet laugh escaped his lips.“Well done, cariño. You did it.” Another harrowing groan left his mouth. She steered Boaz back to the road, trying her best to stay strong for the man who was now holding onto her for support.“I’ll get you back. Just stay alive, okay?” Miriam comforted. The ride had been a long one. For the most part, Javier managed to keep himself awake, but it was becoming harder and harder with each passing minute. His vision was misty, his skin becoming cold and beads of sweat dripping from his temples.Arriving back in camp, Miriam called out for help as she abruptly halted Boaz. Miss Grimshaw being the punctual member of the gang was the first to leave her tent, along with Arthur and Dutch.“What happened?” Dutch called out, seeing the blood all down Javier’s side, his body slumped over having passed out a few moments prior.“Christ, he’s been shot.” Arthur mumbled, going over to where Javier was and lifting him down as carefully as he could.“What’s goin’ on here?” Bill called out from his tent, shutting up quickly when he saw what state Javier was in. “Shit!”“It was O’Driscolls. They chased us from Wallace Station-” Dutch walked over to Miriam in reaction to her words, both Arthur and Bill now dragging Javier to his tent.“Were you followed?” Miriam shook her head at Dutch.“No. Of course not.” The Van Der Linde leader sighed in relief, keeping a level head.“Right… Mister Strauss! Miss Grimshaw!” The Austrian and former portrait lady looked at Dutch, ready for his order. “Please see to Mister Escuella. Get him better.” Miriam’s cheeks became wet with her tears. She tried to run over to Javier but Dutch stopped her. “He’ll be fine. I suggest you go back to bed, Miss Miriam.” He firmly stated. She looked over Dutch’s shoulder and still tried to step past the gang’s leader. He stopped her once more. “They will do everything they can for him. We’re not going to let him die.” Miriam bit the inside of her lip and nodded, staring at the ground. Dutch walked away from her to join the group that was around Javier.He needed his family more than anything at this crucial time.Miriam rubbed the back of her neck and let out a shaky breath. She tried to stop her tears and as soon as she convinced herself she had her emotions under control, she heard a bubbly voice call out.“Miriam?” It was Mary-Beth. “Are you okay?” Miriam broke. Falling into Mary-Beth’s arms, the young woman wailed out, sobbing about Javier’s injury. How scared she was for him. How she could never forgive herself for letting this happen. Mary-Beth’s face would soften at her friend’s cries and she would place her hand on her back, rubbing it to soothe her. “You’re alright now. Let’s get you inside.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Rain trickled down onto the grass, beads of water sliding down the dull blades of grass. Dusk kissed the sky, melting the sun’s glow to a dusty navy. The camp had been silent the past couple days ever since Javier’s injury. Torment. It lingered over Miriam like the plague. Regretful thoughts. Woeful what ifs. Tragic scenarios. They clustered together, attacking her mind; a hope eating disease.The poor girl had been unable to visit Javier for two days. Strauss, Charles and Grimshaw trying to remedy his pain. Strauss was the one to remove the bullet; Charles gave the herbal medicine most fitting for the situation and Miss Grimshaw cleaned his wounds when necessary. It was haunting for Miriam to see how often they had to leave Javier’s closed tent to come back with more tonics, more water, more clean rags to replace the bloodied ones. Miriam would wait outside his tent often, waiting for any update on his wellbeing. They were little and never often.Mary-Beth and Sadie gave Miriam the support she needed. They tried to convince her that there was no need to feel guilty, that these things happen; but she would not listen. Every hour she wished it was her in his place. This was not just down to the fact it was Javier but because she also wished to take away the pain from the other gang members. Her heart was overwhelmed to see every single member ask for word on Javier, wondering if there was something they could do to help. They had been his family a lot longer than she had been his… well, that was it. She did not know what they were. Lovers perhaps? Yet no such confession had taken place. A fling? But it felt so much more than that. Perhaps just a sweet dream. Un dulce sueño.Miriam sat within her tent; the flaps opened up so she could see out across the camp. Straight across was where his tent held. Her book was in her lap yet she hadn’t looked down as often as she wished she could. She wished she was able to distract herself. She was unable. Her eyes repeatedly staring at Javier’s tent, watching the shadows dance their solemn jive within. An orange-yellow glow lit up his tent. Perhaps it was some odd beacon of hope. If the tent was still lit, then he was still being attended to which meant he was still alive. Listening to the rain, Miriam forced her head to drop down to the book in her lap. As she read it, her eyes flickered to her feet where another copy of the book sat open on the same page. The Spanish version.Javier’s tent went dark. Immediately Miriam’s vision shot across the camp, desperately looking for any sign of life. Strauss was the first to emerge. Then Charles. Finally, Miss Grimshaw. Not even wasting time to put on her coat, Miriam ran over to Miss Grimshaw in an emerald, long-sleeved gown. The bottom of the dress picked up water as it bounced upon the ground with each long stride the young woman took. Her hair was loose, flowing all the way down to the small of her back, becoming damp from the rain’s inevitable touch.“Miss Grimshaw, is he?” She couldn’t even bring herself to finish the question. The elder lady looked to her and shook her head.“He’s fine, Miss Miriam.” A loud exhale of relief fell from Miriam’s mouth. Miriam held a hand over her chest to try and stop herself from breathing irradicably.“Will he be, okay?”“He’s a strong one, Miss Miriam. Don’t think of him to be so feeble.” Miss Grimshaw lifted the bottom of her dress skirt, not wanting it to get wet from the puddles forming on the grass. She rose an eyebrow at the young woman who was looking at Javier’s tent with curiosity. Grimshaw cocked her head towards Javier’s tent. “Go on. Just don’t get him moving. He needs to rest.” Miriam nodded to Grimshaw in thanks before the older lady proceeded to walk away.Hesitation made the young lady pause. An uneasiness crept up her spine. She had always seen Javier so strong and well. Always preening himself like a prized stallion. He had such a calming aura when he was by himself. Every time he would shine his boots, furrowing his brow as he did so – or whether he was tuning the strings of his guitar. Even just leaning back on his seat, with one leg tucked in and the other stretched out. Javier was a handsome man and he knew it. The whole camp knew it. Yet despite the rare giggles off others, Miriam found herself to enjoy watching how he kept himself. He was so smart looking and pleasing to the eye. She would swoon every time he would glance up to look at her whilst in the middle of one of those activities. Always she would bashfully look away but little did she know how a tiny smile would etch into the corner of his lips every time he caught her. So, the thought of seeing him in a state of vulnerability, aching and wounded was something scary to her.Her fingers clasped round the fabric of the tent to open it up. She ducked down to head inside, refusing to look at him until she closed the opening back up to leave them both in secrecy. Turning around, her eyes soaked in the scene before her.There, Javier laid. Eyes closed as if dreaming the sweetest of dreams. His chest rising and falling in a limited pattern. Sweat was glazed above his furrowed brows; a fever evidently invading his body causing much discomfort to the male. With each passing moment, the tiniest of groans came from the back of his throat which clutched at Miriam’s heartstrings. Javier was a fighter – a miracle he had lasted this long. A black blanket lay just over his legs, but the top half of his body was bare; other than the layers of bandages which were wrapped around his torso, ribcage and shoulder. Miriam looked to where the bullet was and was thankful no blood was there. The bleeding had finally stopped.She looked back to his face, inching closer to his body until finally she knelt beside him. It was as if she was looking at him for the first time again. She soaked up every detail of him, worried that he may be ripped away from her by a click of the fingers. His cheeks, his scars… his lashes… his nose… cheeks… jaw, his raven black hair. She recalled having never seen him with his hair down before. It was shoulder length, velvety and black as ebony. Tempting to touch – as soon as she raised her hand to touch it, Javier groaned a little louder, wincing at a wave of pain washing over him. Immediately she recoiled her hand back. The poor man had been fighting this battle for two days. All the while she couldn’t do anything but watch. She wasn’t even at his side. Worst of all… she had caused this.Miriam’s head dropped down past her shoulders. Her hair waterfalled over her face. And she cried. Biting the inside of her lip, she pursed her lips together tightly so she wouldn’t utter a sound, not wanting to awake Javier. Her shoulders shook aggressively, fighting the choke which threatened an escape from her throat. Vile curses she thought up for herself. She wished she had just told him the truth in the first place. From the first day he had asked. Perhaps the Van Der Linde gang really could have helped her. If not them then at least Javier. Maybe the people in this world weren’t as cruel as she always thought them to be. But she knew better than anyone that the world was in fact full of people who were cruel. Wicked. Unforgivable. Evil.The young woman was so trapped in her thoughts, she didn’t even realise that the tears that rolled down her cheeks and chin were falling onto Javier’s face. Ever so barely, his eyes opened to reveal his dark amber hues. His vision was blurry yet in the fog, he could just make out Miriam’s face. He wanted to call out her name, but he couldn’t. His strength had still yet to return. Every ounce of fight left in him was to ward off the spreading fever. Having only opened his eyes for a brief moment, he closed them soon after falling back into his slumber. If only the girl had seen…Rolling her head back, Miriam opened her eyes, her fingers now desperately trying to wipe away her tears. She couldn’t break like this, not ever again. From that moment onwards, she vowed to herself she would remain strong for him. Until he drew his last breath; she would never give up on him.Throughout the night, Miriam tended to him, not leaving his side. Each time he would squeeze his eyes tightly shut; her shoulders would tense in anticipation – a burning want for him to wake up. How she longed to see his eyes again. To have him look her way. Smiling flirtatiously like he always would. However, the night was long and in the current state he was in, it didn’t appear that he would awake any time soon. The rain still fell against the tent, creating an atmospheric sphere of cosiness despite the uneasiness within. The moon was creeping towards the West, now being the early hours of the morning. Miriam’s eyes felt heavy but she didn’t want to look away from him. It was a cocktail of emotions being poured into the fire that kept her body awake. She was surprised she had managed to go this long without succumbing to her exhaustion. It was a price she was willing to pay for what she had done to him.A small prolonged wheeze came from Javier’s throat, trying to escape past his closed lips. It snapped Miriam out from her sleepy daze, now focusing back to his features. Sweat was starting to form on his forehead again thus giving cause for the young woman to reach back into the bucket beside her. Rinsing the rag from the excess water with a harsh twist, she folded it neatly into a long rectangular shape and dapped it gently over his forehead and brows. His furrowed eyebrows released from the strain, relaxing at the coolness of the water. She sighed in relief seeing his softened expression whilst he slept, yet this relief only lasted momentarily. The wheeze was still present.Placing the rag back into the bucket, Miriam watched. Each time his chest would rise, a pained wheeze would invade. With each exhale, a hauntingly hollow groan trailed. These noises were barely above a whisper. She had wondered if it was perhaps her exhaustion playing tricks on her mind. Daringly, the young woman placed her ear against his chest to hear more clearly. There the noise increased its volume. Internally he sounded like he was in agony. Like some form of disease was threatening him from within. Persistent in attacking. Keeping him locked in his own mind, never to wake. The sound was heartbreaking.Miriam lifted her head to look at his face. His scars were prominent on his face due to the flickering light of the lantern. Her eyes scanned over each one, wondering how he obtained them. Her brown eyes fell to his neck where his largest scar could be seen. A long, deep line from one side of his neck to the other. Her teeth gritted; the image of his throat being slit making her falter. This man had been through so much hardship. From the stories his scars told to the tales of his childhood which he would share round the campfire. He had always been on the run. He had always been fighting for his life. Quickly she looked away, not wanting to think anymore of his tragedies. Her eyes fixated on the lantern seeing its dying flames. She blew it out, the inside of the tent now falling into darkness. In spite of not wanting to imagine how he received his past injuries, like a moth to a flame, she looked back to him. This lighting made him seem more peaceful. More harmonious. His scars less… terrifying to conjure up their possible backstories.She placed her hand on his right cheek where her thumb brushed over the scar on his cheekbone. Miriam wasn’t sure what possessed her but the overwhelming desire to begin to speak softly to him was too much to resist. A confession from the pits of her heart.“Javier… I… I’m so sorry. For everything.” Her thumb brushed over his cheek once more. “For you getting shot, protecting me… for not being honest with you… for…” Her jaw clenched. “… for ever meeting you.” She mustered all the power within her to swallow the lump rising in her throat. She sniffed, trying to compose herself. “If you had never met me…” No amount of strength could uphold her pillar of stability. She lowered her forehead which was now nestled below his collarbone, her hand still on his cheek. “… you would be okay, right now.” Her words were shaky. Almost broken. They came from deep within.The sound of the rain dulled. The grey clouds parting to say their goodbyes to the moon. Excess droplets of water falling from the leaves of the trees were louder than the slow falling rain itself.“Cariño, te preocupas demasiado…” (“Darling, you worry too much.”) Feeling it to be some trick of God, Miriam lifted her head to see if her hopes were true. And they were. His amber eyes finally looking back to hers. The softness of his expression ever present. He was awake.“Javier!” She exclaimed just above a whisper. Her pearly smile stretched from ear to ear. A wave of pure innocence and joy washed through her soul thus making her lean into the man before her to embrace him. Her right hand remained on his cheek whilst her other went to the back of his neck and her cheek pressed against his. She had forgotten all past restraints and embarrassment in this very moment. Only happiness triggered her actions. In turn, Javier’s hand laid upon the back of her head, keeping her close.“Nunca pude arrepentirse haberte conocido.” (“I could never regret having met you.”) The Spanish he spoke made Miriam beam brighter against his cheek, still not able to understand much of it. She choked out a small laugh.“I don’t understand…” His tired eyes could barely stay open. Using the last of his strength, he pushed forth his shoulders just slightly to make her release him from her grasp. Yet he stopped her from pulling away fully by placing his own hand over her hand which was still on his cheek. Their eyes bore into each other’s.“Then listen carefully.” Javier moved her hand from his cheek and wrapped his fingers fully around her digits to place them over his heart. Her heart drummed in anticipation, looking longingly into his coffee-coloured eyes. “Tu eres mi luna y estrellas.”In that moment, it felt as though time had stood still. Miriam’s eyes furrowed upwards, her heart wanting to break free from her chest to be claimed by the man before her. She knew exactly what those words meant. Just as she went to speak, his eyes closed, falling back into a deep dormancy. Yet the grip on her hand was still somewhat unyielding.“Javier?” No response. The peaceful sounds of his breaths being the only noise to cycle through the tent. She looked at him a moment longer before carefully releasing her hand. She placed her lips on his forehead. She stayed this way for a few seconds before pulling away. Giving him one last look of admiration, she got to her feet and left his tent. Closing it behind her, Miriam looked to the ground in deep thought.‘Tu eres mi luna y estrellas…’ She repeated his words in her mind. Her lightly clenched hand went over her chest she could feel her heart beating. Lifting her head to the skies, her eyes met with the golden haze of the morning sky. Its rays spread across the camp with its radiant spotlights. She couldn’t help but smile, her nose scrunching up at the realisation that Javier could possibly… just maybe… feel the same way. The words he spoke to her in the tent; she translated them with delicate ease in her mind.
‘You are my moon and stars.’
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The days seemed brighter; the nights more comforting since Javier’s awakening. It hadn’t gone unnoticed by the other gang members how empty Miriam’s tent was as of late. She would spend most of her time by Javier’s side, tending to his needs and cares. The only times she would return to her own tent would be the early hours of the morning to get a few hours sleep before being woken up by Tilly, warning her of Miss Grimshaw’s brewing wrath. Despite losing sleep over her additional responsibility, she did not mind for it meant she could be with him.Each day that would pass by, Javier got better. Stronger. More himself. It pondered on Miriam’s mind if Javier even remembered what he had said to her in those early hours of that morning. Or if he was even speaking from a sane state of mind. Perhaps he was delirious? His mind on another plain. Or… thinking of someone else? It would ache the young woman’s heart; the very thought of him loving another. The reality that he once doted on another female, going as far as to kill a powerful man over her. At the time, Javier’s words felt true and honest yet since the days had passed, crossing from day to night in a continuous loop; doubt began to fog her mind. To her, it was possible that his words may have been intended for someone else. That distant woman from his rebellious past.She dared not to ask him. At least for now, she wanted to enjoy the moments she spent close by his side. Miriam remained true to her promise; never giving up on him until her dying breath. Clarification could come later. Now, seeing him recover, begin to smile again, laugh, eat and drink was all she could care about.Javier found his evenings with Miriam in his tent to be his most treasured part of the day. She would have just finished her chores for the camp and would immediately wish to spend her free time with him. Each time she would scratch at the fabric of his closed tent, asking softly if she could come in; Javier’s chest would swell with excitement. He would either be plucking the strings of his guitar or sharpening his knife. Instantly he would stop what he was doing and encourage her to come inside. This time, when that familiar scratching noise strove forth to his ears, he had not been doing either of those things. He had been reading. The young woman had left her book on the crate next to his bedroll from the night before. She had been in such a tired daze to commute back to her own bed, she had forgotten to take it with her. He took it to his fancy to examine the pages she had been reading all these weeks. The Mexican had concluded that it was a story she was very fond of – she had read it multiple times and bookmarked her most loved sections.His amber eyes focused on the poised woman before him, his attention on the book now broken. Miriam’s cheeks flushed with embarrassment seeing what he was reading yet her expression softened, finding this sentiment to be almost adoring and heartfelt.“Oh, I’m sorry. I must have left that here last night…” She awkwardly stated, walking over to kneel beside him. He was sprawled out across his bedroll, one elbow keeping him propped up whilst his spare hand held the book. One of his knees was also bent to give him more leverage if he wished to move. His bandages around his upper torso were slightly dirtied, having been a couple days since they were last changed. His hair was messy, still free from his usual tied back look. The rugged look was oddly attractive to Miriam for it was an appearance that she had never seen before and one that Javier had hardly ever let others see. He had maintained his looks to the point where the other gang members, especially Arthur, would often throw comments about his well-kept attire and fancy looks.“The Knight held onto her handkerchief, crumpling it in his grip to release his love’s alluring scent…” Javier recited the lines before him in which his index finger underlined. “It was then he realised, no mountain, no beast, no evil could stand in his way. He would fight for not what was right... but for what he believed in.” Miriam’s cheeks grew hot. She swallowed quietly, keeping her eyes on the floor but listening to his voice. Afterall, he spoke the words so beautifully. “She was his belief. His faith. His love; the saviour of his world.”Miriam smiled at that part. It was her favourite passage from the book. The warmth she felt from within was enough to give her the confidence to lift her head to finally look at him. His eyes had a cushioned temperament to them, fully absorbing the woman who knelt before him. He found it charming how attached she was to the book, clear by her reaction to the words in which he recited.“You like this part?” Javier’s question was more rhetorical if anything. His fingertips brushed over the words printed on the page, indicating to the pencil marks which circled the section. Tucking her hair behind her ear, she gave a small nod. He looked at her with question which prompted the young woman to elaborate.“Throughout most of the story, the Knight would struggle with what he truly wanted. The Princess whom he fell in love with was revealed to be from enemy lands. When her bannermen came to collect her… he was faced with his toughest battle.” Miriam crawled forward a little more, her own fingertips brushing over the words. “To do the right thing by his code; which was to let the traitorous Princess go… or to fight for what he believed in. And…” Miriam found herself smiling from ear to ear. “he chose her.”Javier found himself smiling at Miriam’s telling of the story. “What did she do to be a traitor?” He quizzed, having only skimmed through parts of the book, only focusing on the pages which she had bookmarked and scribbled on.“She ran away from home…” Her voice was quieter than before. Her eyebrows threaded together in hurtful thought. Javier caught on, knowing there was more to what she was saying. Some truth in her words. A fondness and similarity she held to the Princess in the book.“Why would she run away from her home?”“She was expected to do something she did not wish to do.” Her hand returned to her lap where her fingers clenched onto the fabric of her dress skirt. “it… resulted in…” She lost herself in her words, unable to complete her sentence. Her mind travelled far away, thinking back to the time before she got captured by the O’Driscolls. Back to her family.Javier could see the lost look in Miriam’s eyes. His hand reached over to her upper arm, giving it a squeeze after dropping the book. His hand was almost big enough to wrap fully around the flesh; the dominating action brought Miriam back to reality. Her eyes looked to his having just noticed that he was now fully sat up, leaning over to her so their faces were inches apart. He looked deeper into her orbs, searching for some truth within. How he longed to know more about her. Not for the power of knowledge, but to just understand her more. To know he had gained her trust and that she placed her faith in him.“Miriam.” He firmly spoke, wanting her undying attention. He placed his other hand on her neck. Once he was confident she wouldn’t look away, he pressed on. “Tell me who you are.”“Javier. I can’t-”“You can.” She closed her eyes, turning her head away but the hand which was holding her upper arm rested on her cheek to make her look back to him. “Miriam. You can trust me.” She struggled against his grip, placing her hands on his wrists to get him to release her. He did no such thing.“But can I trust you not to hate me?”“Hate you? Miriam…” His thumb brushed over the faded scarlet mark on her neck which his lips had assaulted before his injury. He remembered that moment clear. He had often thought of it and the possibilities of what could have been if the O’Driscolls hadn’t been pursuing them. “Nunca podría odiarte.” (“I could never hate you.”) His language was a captivating incantation to her; her lips brushed against his palm to look back to him. He frowned yet the more he leant in closer, the gentler his features became. “I meant what I said.”Miriam’s eyebrows furrowed upwards, not knowing what he meant. He understood her confusion by the subtle shake of her head. His thumb pressed on her bottom lip, pulling it slightly down to make her mouth open. The sound of her breath hitching in the back of her throat made the man want to ravish her. The restraint he had was God-sent.“The time I woke up. And saw you.” Miriam felt sick to her stomach yet it wasn’t out of fear or worry. It was out of revelation and growing affection for the man before her. He could see in her eyes that she knew what he meant. Now holding her chin, he tilted her head back so he could lean over her, looking into her soul from above. “Say it to me.” Her chest pulled towards him like a magnet, unable to deny their bodies need to touch. In return, his hand fell from her neck to find its place on the small of her back. His voice had some much authority, she ought to be a fool if she did not obey.“Javier…” His eyes became half-lidded, her delicate voice like a lullaby to his ears. His lips pressed against the corner of her mouth and then along the length of her jaw. They were sweet butterfly kisses, gentle like the sound of her voice. His fingers released her chin, holding onto the top corner of her neck, just behind her ear. She tilted her neck back, silently begging for him to do more to her. He would deny her until she said those words.His lips hovered over her ear. “Dime esas dulces palabras, mi amor.” (“Tell me those sweet words, my love.”)“Tu eres mi luna y estrellas.” Her words were like warm honey falling from a spoon. Javier placed a tiny kiss below her ear before looking back to her cocoa-eyes. She had pulled her head back forth, her chest still pressed against his, not wanting to leave his heavenly touch. His expression was serious, no smile present.“And do you mean it?” Without even thinking, Miriam’s fingertips reached to his cheek. She nodded, nothing but honesty in her eyes. This was all the confirmation he needed. He thought it possible that she was the very thing he had needed all his life. The right soul his own needed to be united with. A love from another lifetime. The pair both went to close their eyes, gravitating towards each other to kiss. They were centimetres apart when a brash voice was heard from outside the tent.“Oi! Greaser! You hidin’ that little trinket in there?” Micah.The couple stopped each other’s advance and stayed in silence, looking at one another in a mutual disappointment. Slowly, they grew apart in physical distance, looking away from one another.“I stopped by her tent. Wanted to pay her a visit. She ain’t there.” Micah licked his bottom lip, knowing exactly what was about to transpire inside the tent if he had left them a moment longer. “Was hopin’ to have a little chat.”“Get lost, Micah.” Javier called out, turning his back to Miriam. The young woman could only shudder at the blonde’s words, knowing there was no purity to them.“Well… if you see her…” He chuckled from the outside, standing up from his crouching position. “Tell her I’ll be… more than happy… to help her on her way.” Miriam’s eyes went a little wide at his words. What could he have possibly meant? Without elaborating further, Micah walked away from Javier’s tent. He had cruel intentions. The power of rejection had done a number on him and just like Javier, Micah had been unable to get the young woman off his mind.Like he had told her those many nights ago, he loved a little fight in a woman. She was a challenge he wished to conquer. Conquer he thought he could easily do. Destroy? That was something far more delicious to the scoundrel. He was going to do a little digging of his own. He found it comical that not one person in the camp had a crumb of information on her. He had even questioned Mary-Beth but to no avail. The green-eyed beauty would tell him to go away each time he brought up Miriam. Sadie Adler on the other hand was far more confrontational. The evening before, he brought up possible scenarios of who Miriam could be and it ended with Sadie’s fist slamming into his jaw.‘The damn girl has loyalty on her side…’ Micah thought to himself as he stepped into Baylock’s stirrup. He mounted his companion and pulled hard at the reins to get his horse to turn, followed by a harsh kick. He rolled his shoulders, adjusting the position of his black leather coat against his body. A smirk followed from under his hat. ‘But let’s see how loyal your friends are when they find out what dirty little secrets yer keepin’.’ The smirk was replaced by a dark frown, thinking about Javier. ‘And yer little greaser.’ Micah and Baylock disappeared into the distance, the cloak of trees covering them. It was clear that the man would stop at nothing to get one over the young woman. He wanted the last laugh.And he would have it.Back in Javier’s tent, a spell of silence was still being conjured amongst the pair. It wasn’t uncomfortable between the two. Just solemn and unfortunate. The male still had his back facing her, his black hair falling over his shoulder to greet his bandages. Not wanting to address the rude disturbance which had just transpired, Miriam’s hands went to Javier’s back, now unravelling the bandages. She explained that they were finally ready to be removed permanently seeing as he had healed so well. He did not respond to her.Admittedly, his silence did sting her. She did not wish to dwell on it for it meant that Micah had won on what he set out to do – ruin their moment. After a combination of twists and loops around his body, at long last his torso and ribcage were now free of the linen. Looking at the bare muscles on his back, his broad shoulders being the most muscular part, Miriam had to fight the temptation to put her hands against him. She wished to feel each crevice of his muscles, each dip and scar that painted across his tanned skin.The entire time, Javier had been silent. Not wishing to upset Javier with unnecessary words, Miriam held onto the skirt of her dress and picked up her book which Javier had dropped prior.“I’ll…” She stopped herself from what she wanted to say. “Good evening, Javier.” Without another word being said, she made her exit.That evening had been a quiet one. Just another regular night in the Van Der Linde camp. Bill, Strauss and Pearson were sharing their history around the campfire. Karen and Sean were kissing and running away from each other like drunk teenagers in love. Hosea, Miss Grimshaw, Uncle, Lenny and Charles were sat round the table having a quiet drink, reminiscing about old times; Lenny and Charles more than happy to just listen to their elders. Dutch and Molly were dancing to the joyful lulls coming from the gramophone.Abigail and Jack were sat in their tent, happy to watch Dutch and Molly dance. John in turn watched his wife and son from a distance, contemplating whether to join them. Swanson had passed out on his bedroll, his mouth kissing the dirt. Mary-Beth was sat by her tent, listening to Kieran say sweet-nothings to her. Meanwhile, Miriam, Tilly and Sadie sat nearby on the grass, listening to their conversation.“My, ain’t he sweet?” Tilly commented, noting how genuine Kieran was being to Mary-Beth. Sadie scoffed, adjusting the angle in which her hat sat.“Sure. Don’t change him bein’ an O’Driscoll though.” It was Miriam’s turn to speak; the volume of their voices quiet enough that the love-struck pair couldn’t overhear but loud enough so the ladies could hear each other.“Oh, come on. He says he isn’t one of them.” Sadie frowned at her chestnut-haired friend.“And?” The blonde said with a fearless attitude in her voice. Miriam smiled to herself, shrugging.“He’s probably telling the truth.” Sadie laughed, perhaps a little louder than first intended. Miriam felt the need to defend her statement. “If he was then I wouldn’t be here. I would have been handed back over to the O’Driscolls.” Tilly gave Sadie a knowing look.“She’s got a point, ya know?” Sadie spat over her shoulder, knowing that Miriam got her good with that comment.“Unless he’s waiting for the right time to tell them where you are.” Miriam shook her head.“No. I don’t think so. Kieran’s a good boy. I mean… he looks after the horses better than anyone and…” The wavy-locked woman held her face in her hand, her elbow propped on her thigh. She looked at Mary-Beth who was clearly falling for the boy. “Look how he’s making her feel.” Tilly and Sadie looked back over to the couple. It was evident they were sweet on each other. By the way Mary-Beth would never break eye-contact when he spoke and how Kieran would stumble over his words each time he got a better reaction from her than he was initially expecting.Sadie rolled her eyes.“Well, if he makes one wrong move…” Sadie pulled out her knife and pointed it in Kieran’s direction. “He’s gettin’ it.” Miriam and Tilly quietly giggled to themselves, pitying Kieran if he said one wrong thing to Mary-Beth. Even if it was accidental.From a distance, Javier watched the women from under a tree. The skies were illustrated with colours of navy and pink from the setting sun. Diamond-like stars peaked through the mixture, pulling the moon up from its slumber. He had lit a cigarette, its orange glow lighting up Javier’s face like an ominous portrait. The shadow of his bowlers hat created a black band across his brown eyes. The fabric of his blue jacket rubbed against the tree as he leant back, crossing one boot over the other.He couldn’t let it go. That moment they had shared in his tent. It was almost perfect until Micah interrupted them. He had been so close to learning who she was. So close to kissing her again. If they had shared that kiss, he could only fantasise what would have happened after if she wished it so. There was no doubt about it that she wanted him like he wanted her. He saw the way she would look at him. How beautifully she would arch back for him. How pretty she sounded when she reacted to his touches.He felt robbed. Cheated.Angry.A cloud of smoke surrounded him upon his exhale. Another bubble of laughter came from Miriam. The sound was better than anything a songbird could whistle. Javier clenched his fist which was holding onto his belt.
He couldn’t let it go.
Miriam stood up from her seat and said something to both Tilly and Sadie. They had both nodded to her before Miriam began to walk away. It appeared to Javier that she was heading towards the water. He pulled the cigarette from his mouth, chucking it to the ground without a single care to give. He saw his opportunity and he planned on taking it.Walking behind her, he stalked her towards the water. Before she could even comprehend she was prey, Javier smoothly joined her side and slipped his fingers through hers, holding onto her hand. Not faltering in pace, or giving her eye contact, he led her away from the camp, steering their path towards the trees. Miriam did not question the man, her posture in fact relaxing, glad Javier was near her once more. He hadn’t spoken to her since the removal of his bandages. She had been starved of his attention and thus welcomed any intentions he had.They kept walking, stepping over the branchy pathway which now served as an obstacle course. It was clear by the gradual disappearing path that they were getting deeper into the woods. They were far enough away from camp that they would not be heard… or interrupted.Javier finally stopped walking, at last looking at his amor. The moon was starting to peak its beams through the branches, creating an elegant mist across the bases of the trees. The sound of the water nearby rippled towards their ears, ignoring the breeze which tried its best to billow past. His heart almost leapt in his chest seeing how her eyes dazzled against the moonbeams. She was a sublime creature to him; unlike any woman he had ever laid eyes on in the past. Her thick lashes batted innocently, looking to him for some form of explanation as to why he had brought them all the way out here.His silent response was to step towards her, tucking her wavy hair behind her ear like she would always do.“Javier?” He hummed at her in response. “What are you doing?”“Robando mi tiempo atrás.” (“Stealing my time back.”) Miriam let out a shaky breath. The way he said those words; his voice had dropped to a lower pitch but dark undertones. How close she was to falling to her knees.Leaving the touch of her silky locks, Javier’s hand rested on the side of Miriam’s neck, his thumb crossing over her jaw. He angled her head back perfectly so he could once more look down into her eyes just like before. This time, there would be no interruptions.Not wanting to risk even an inch of that possibility, he closed the gap between. His lips pushed onto her own whilst her hand moved to hold his own on her neck. Without even thinking, she returned his kiss – that flame within her igniting brighter than ever before. This was no gentle kiss but a heavy and longing one. Too many times had they both been restricted by other’s views. By the fear of getting caught. For Javier, enough was enough.Javier’s teeth pulled Miriam’s bottom lip back just slightly so he could selfishly hear her cute little gasp. As quickly as she breathed in, he released her lip and pushed her head back even more. She was now practically looking up to the skies, only for Javier to crane his head over and press his lips to hers again. Her eyes squeezed tightly, her grip tightening around his wrist but she did not try to pull him away. Instead, she succumbed to both him and the lustful heat she felt between her legs. Every passing second, he was advancing further on her smaller frame; his lips kissing her harder, his tongue dominating hers and his hand tightening around her neck. All Miriam could do was accept the treatment she was getting, gladly playing her part as his next victim of romance. There was still the smallest of doubt in her mind that if she were to give him everything this night, would he move on to another?Using a short burst of strength, Miriam escaped Javier’s lips for a split second to claim air. He nearly did not give her enough time to do such a thing. She saw the sinful desire in his eyes just before he pushed his lips back to hers. He tasted of cigarettes and smelt of oakwood and pepper with a hint of musk. The very smell of him sent primal instincts to her brain, which in turn made her squeeze her legs tighter to relieve her burning sensation out of retaliation.“Javier!” She cried out, her legs not being strong enough to stand against his assault any longer. Before she could fall to the ground, Javier crouched down quick enough to place one hand on her hip and the other on her ass to stop the fall. In doing so, their kiss had been broken, the both of them now panting to fill their lungs back with oxygen. The crouch was awkward to continue to hold, therefore, the Mexican softly relaxed the muscles in his arms so the young woman could delicately sit on the grass. Her hair sat beautifully on her shoulders, her waves simulating waterfalls of silver which imitated the moon’s light perfectly. Her lips were now a dusty rose colour due to Javier’s passionate violation. Her cheeks were a faint scarlet and her eyes were half lidded. Miriam leant back on her hands, her breasts pushing against her corset with each desperate breath she took. Javier relished the sight of her.“Te ves tan dulce como esta.” (“You look so sweet like this.”) Miriam’s cheeks turned a darker shade of ruby, recognising one of the Spanish words he spoke. She understood he must have been calling her or referring to her situation as something sweet to look upon. Her lips parted in awe when she saw him duck his head down, his lips butterflying between her breasts. She frantically tried to squeeze her legs together but his legs were now in the way. He was knelt between her own, having got on his knees from his previous crouch position. He chuckled darkly when he felt the pressure of her thighs. He lifted his head to look at her. “Something the matter, cariño?”She could have passed out. The realisation hit her that he knew exactly what she was trying to do. Bashfully, she shut her eyes and turned her head over her shoulder to avoid his gaze.“You treat me so cruel, Javier.” There was half-truth to her words. Of course, Javier was nowhere near a cruel man, but his actions as of late had been taken as cruel by the young woman. The silent treatment from earlier, his touches back near Wallace station, the constant uttering of Spanish when he spoke to her, knowing she could not understand and the endless teasing he was doing to her mind, body and heart. Her words however made Javier’s expression soften. He placed a curled index finger under her chin to steer her gaze back to his.“How so?” She couldn’t put all her thoughts into words. All she could do was frown sadly and say something more abrupt and to the point.“Do you do this often?” It was a painful question to ask, but she already knew the answer. Javier was a handsome man. But more literally than anything… he was a man. A man who had desires like any other. Javier sighed. Not out of disappointment but out of knowing she was hurting her own feelings, drawing invisible comparisons to his past lovers. Yet above all he knew she was worried she would be just another one of his ‘lays’ and nothing more.“Miriam…” He moved his fingers from under her chin to his lap. He sat on the backs on his ankles, looking at her with honesty. “I’ve had other women, yes.” The bluntness of his statement pierced her heart. She knew it was just human nature but it was the fear of being ‘just another woman’ to him. She wanted to be more than that. She wanted… to be his.Her look of hurt rattled him within. He got off from his ankles and leant over her, both his large hands holding her cheeks. His nose was almost touching hers when he lowered his voice to a softer tone. “But do I often do this…” Very slowly, he gave her a butterfly kiss. Deep and meaningful. He pulled away, letting go of her cheeks, his hands now disappearing under her dress skirt. He scrunched up the bottom of the fabric, lifting it past her beautiful plush thighs where her knees were bent and there the fabric pooled around her hips. His head ducked down between her legs, placing a damp kiss by her knee. “…this…” Javier’s head went further between her legs, peppering kisses further down her thigh, until he reached her core. His thumbs brushed away the fabric of her chemise so he could look at her pussy. Her slick glistened perfectly under the moon’s glow. Without hesitation, Javier pressed his mouth against her heat, causing Miriam’s eyebrows to furrow upwards and her lips to part wider than the last time.“… or this…” Javier gave her pussy one strong lick, brushing past her clit hard causing her thighs to shake in adrenaline and pleasure. Miriam had knocked her head back past her shoulders, almost giving herself whiplash. He saw her cunt twitch, begging to be penetrated and this in turn made his cock grow against the inside of his jeans. Restraining himself from eating her pussy right there and then, Javier lifted himself back up to gain control of her gaze. “… no.” He finally answered. Miriam rolled her head back forth to look at him, his answer having reassured her. In the past he had merely fucked women, not even remembering their names the morning after.But Miriam… he did not want to just merely fuck her. He could never forget her name.Javier soaked in how beautiful she looked all flustered before him. He couldn’t help but kiss her again. And again. And again. She returned every single one with mutual passion. The innocent thing tried pushing her tongue into Javier’s mouth but before she could do so, he put his hand on her cheek and used his thumb to stop her. Her tongue pressed against the pad of his thumb, begging for it to move. He obliged but not in haste. Sluggishly he dragged his thumb down her tongue, past her bottom lip which caused it to follow. With her bottom lip pulled down like this, seeing how plump and round her lips were, his cock twitched in anticipation. He imagined them encircled around his dick, her beautiful locks bouncing on and off her shoulders as she went. That was something he would often do.“Mi amor… if you would let me…” He released her lip. His eyes glimmered with longing. “Quiero adorar tu cuerpo.” (“I want to worship your body.”) Miriam looked at him with innocence, trying her hardest to translate what he was saying. Yet she wouldn’t need to. Javier leant in closer; his lips next to her ear as he whispered. “Let me make love to you.”Miriam felt the world around her freeze. She could no longer hear the rippling of the water against the shore. The rustling of leaves high in the trees had muted. The cries of the foxes chasing their prey, silenced. Her beating heart was ringing through her ears, the only sound she could hear. Shyly, the young woman nodded. Javier grazed his teeth over her neck, pinching at the skin.“Dilo.” She winced, placing her hands on his shoulders. He repeated the word after nipping at her skin again. It was a dull pain yet it still sent arousing shivers down her spine.“Ja-Javier?” Her questioning tone earnt her a nip at her earlobe. His knee pressed against her core which caused the young woman to press her chest into Javier’s.“I said, say it.” He almost hissed the last two words yet there was still an undertone of adoration. Javier made her lie down on the grass, her angelic locks spreading over the blades of grass. The indigo forget-me-not flowers which grew in these parts graced her appearance, making her look other-worldly. A Goddess which had descended from the heavens. Javier placed his hand on his hat and removed it before sitting back on his ankles to admire her appearance. The backs of her hands led either side of her face; her big doe-like eyes looking up at him with enchantment. He reached forth for one of her hands and he pressed it to his lips with his eyes closed. She was so soft to touch, whether it be his hands or lips. She was perfect to him in every way.“Dilo…” He whispered. He pecked her hand. “Dilo, mi amor…” Releasing her hand, Javier crawled backwards so his face was back between her thighs. He kissed the most inner corner of her thigh, perhaps the most sensitive part. “Dilo.” He now demanded. Yet he still received no verbal response. The only sound he could hear was Miriam’s heavy breathing. She tried to squeeze her thighs together, but Javier’s hands prevented her from doing so. He was not going to allow her to feel any sort of pleasure until he knew for sure she wanted him. All he would do for the time being; tease.He pressed his thumbs into the corners of her inner thighs, massaging them in intricate circles. As a result, her pussy lips parted and moved with the skin he was pushing and pulling. The night’s air slapped against her heat, making her breath tremble. So badly she wanted to spread her legs for him, yet her shyness had a chokehold on her. He pushed her further. He was going to break that barrier. Placing one light peck on her inner thigh, he moved his mouth to the hood of her clit, kissing it – lighter than a brush of a feather. This very action tipped the young woman over the edge.“Please! Please, Javier!” Her hand reached down to his head where the tips of her fingers laced between his raven locks which were held back by his ponytail. He removed his lips from her clit and looked up at her with an almost blank yet dark expression.“Please, what?” He baited. Miriam looked at him helpless. The man was so cruel. So cruel. Tears began to prickle against her eyes.“Please make love to me.” That was all he needed. The Mexican dropped his head below his shoulders to assault her core. It was unlike anything she had ever felt. First, he kissed her pussy, treating her pink flesh as it were the sensitive skin on her neck. He was gentler to her pussy than he was to her lips earlier. When he said he wanted to make love to her, he spoke the truth. The animalistic side of him wanted to devour her. Fuck her senseless. Rut her until she lost her voice. But he knew there would be many more moments in the future for them to do such things. Right now, he wanted to show her through his actions that she meant more to him.That to him she was a religion he wished to worship.The wetness pooled between her legs. He could smell her sweetness and wanted to finally taste. Javier put his index and middle finger in a V-shape either side of her pussy and stretched her apart. Her nectar spilt down, finally being released from her entrance which had been trapped by the constant squeezing of her thighs. He lapped his tongue from the bottom of her spill to her opening, drinking her fluid. The raven-haired male savoured her taste; she tasted like syrup and blackberries – a snack she often ate whilst she read that romance novel. Gods he wished he could eat her all night. Her taste was addicting to him. He needed her to spill more for him. He needed more of her. Especially when she looked down at him between her legs with such a cute expression. Her cheeks were flaring up like autumnal embers, her eyes lidded with ever-lasting devotion. Miriam squealed upon the intrusion of his tongue being pushed inside her. Her fingers wrapped tightly around the blades of grass, scrunching up the flowers that once crowned her. The feeling of his tongue inside her was more incredible than the feeling her own fingers gave her when she would dream about him late at night. She never thought insane pleasure like this to be possible yet she was proven remarkably wrong.Her body wanted him badly. It was evident by the way her pussy clenched around his tongue, each time he removed it only to push back in. Her back arched upwards, her shoulders planting deeper into the ground. Miriam felt as though she was ascending to another world, having a hard time distinguishing reality and fantasy. The overwhelming feeling of his tongue caused her to feel embarrassed thus making her thighs close around his head. She didn’t mean to, yet her body reacted out of instinct. Despite the strength of her beautiful plush thighs, Javier pushed them apart easily with his hands. He was not going to allow her to close up and deny herself the full potential of pleasure he could offer. He pulled back from her heat, running his wet muscle over his bottom lip to catch the dripping nectar left behind.“Cariño…” Javier called out, looking up from her legs and through the valley of her corseted breasts. He saw her lift her head to greet his gaze. God, he found her beautiful. “You would enjoy it more… if you were to spread your legs for me, mi amor.” His request made her want to explode from embarrassment. She could no longer keep eye contact with him and found herself looking at anything and everything but his coffee-coloured eyes.“I-I… I… can’t…” She fumbled over her words, part of her wishing she could be swallowed up by the earth to avoid his hungry appetite. However, it was her deepest desire for him to annihilate her. He snickered at her response. If only she knew how surreal she looked to him.“Sí. You can.” Once more, Javier sat back on his heels, this time removing his blue jacket. He discarded it to the same side he had previously thrown his hat. With a swift tug, he loosened his red neck scarf so he could move around easier. Miriam watched the male roll up his white sleeves, folding them at the elbow. The outlines of his muscles and bones caused her cunt to pulse longingly. Her body couldn’t deny the irresistible sexual attraction it had to his. Nor his to hers After rolling his sleeves back, he showered her inner thighs once more with velvet kisses as if he was trying to urge her to spread them. With each kiss, she moved her legs out wider, wider… and wider. He smiled, lips reaching to her pussy again. “Eres tan hermosa.” (“You are so beautiful.”) He breathed against her only to push his tongue back inside.Miriam whimpered, her fist uncontrollably grabbing a large section of his ashy hair to hold onto for dear life. Her pleasure had increased thrice as much by doing as he asked. His experience showed by the way she was now trying to push his head down to push him further inside. He did as she pleased. With his chin and facial hair now wet with her slick, Javier pushed his tongue as far as he could inside her, fighting against the clenching of her inner walls. Her muscles contracted around him, wanting to feel every part of his tongue. He rolled his tongue in every direction, coaxing out more of her slick to prepare her for what was to come later. Her hand would often tighten then release his locks, only to grab another fistful when he would aggressively change the direction of his tongue. A tight knot bubbled in her lower abdomen, beads of sweat appearing on her temples.“Javier… Oh God…” She tightly shut her eyes. Just as she did so, Javier pulled his tongue from her. Miriam almost huffed at the disappointing notion but was soon shut up by his lips closing round her clit to suck hard. Her hips bucked without command. It was as if she was no longer in control of her body. The young woman was trapped in her mind. A palace of pleasurable torture. The sweet noises of him suckling on her clit heightened the impending orgasm which threatened to take over. She had never experienced a deep, gut-wrenching feeling like this in the pit of her stomach before. Her orgasm which was yet to come almost scared her, not knowing if she would still be conscious to experience it. “Javier, s-s… s-stop…” They both knew she did not mean those words. The need in her voice betrayed her along with her pussy which begged for release. She kept her hand on the back of his head, rolling her hips against his lips.Javier hoisted Miriam’s legs over his shoulders, only sucking harder at her clit. Every couple of seconds he would release it from the suction, not wanting to hurt her. He would swipe his tongue over her clit with each release, as if reminding her he did not plan on letting her go until she came on his face. His hands had snaked under her legs to wrap back over the top to keep her hips pinned against him. She wasn’t going to escape from this. Her fantasy would indeed become a reality. Pathetically, she tried to push his head from her due to the powerful wave which began to ride over her body. She begged him to stop, never having felt like this before. She cried out his name. Nothing stopped him. In fact, he only suckled on her clit more messily. Reaching the peak of her orgasm, her legs and hips shook violently. Javier nuzzled into her mound more to make she felt as elevated as she possibly could. Tears were rolling down her cheeks, her lungs panicking for air. Her cum fell from her pussy. It was so warm and thin against Javier’s chin. Releasing her clit at last, his tongue returned to her entrance. His Adam’s apple bobbed up and down as he drank from her.She sniffled, trying to compose herself. She wanted to sit up but she felt too weak to do so. Yet it didn’t stop her from trying. Releasing her hand from Javier’s head which was still between her legs, she placed it behind her to push herself up. As soon as her back left the ground, her muscles gave way and went to collide back against the grass. Nevertheless, Javier still managed to pull away from her in time to reach forth and place his hand on the back of her head to cushion the blow. Climbing over the top of her, he combed her hair behind her ear with his free hand, staring into her eyes. He did not realise she had been crying from the pleasure she had received. It made his heart yearn.Moving from her chestnut strands, his hand rested on her cheek, brushing away her tears with his thumb. He soothed her, getting her to calm herself.“You did so well, mi amor.” Javier praised, causing Miriam to smile timidly. He returned her smile, aided by a slow kiss he planted on her lips. Eagerly, she welcomed his affection, tasting her cum which was glossed over his mouth. Her blush quickly returned to her cheeks, still finding it hard to believe what he had just done to her. It was no dream. But an ethereal sensibility.He understood she was still weak from her climax but it mattered not to him. He wanted her to stay just how she was. He removed his hand from the back of her head so her hair could once more reunite with the flowers. Finding a spark of gentlemanly nature within him, he explained what he was about to do to her in the softest of voices. She bashfully furrowed her eyebrows together, suddenly conscious of her situation.“Javier…” She stopped him from unbuckling his belt. He looked at her, raising an eyebrow out of concern. She bit the inside of her lip, finding the courage to admit her predicament. “I’ve never done this before.” He grunted in amusement.“A beautiful woman like yourself has not yet been claimed? What did I do to deserve this…” He felt pride swell in his chest. The thought of him being her first made his cock ache. His one true wish would come true this very night. For Miriam to be his and his alone. He had never taken a virgin before but he had heard stories of how it would be uncomfortable for their first time. With that knowledge in mind, Javier placed a comforting kiss on Miriam’s forehead. “Mi amor, I’ll look after you.” When he finished his statement, the sound of his gun’s holster and belt dropping to the ground could be heard along with the unbuttoning of his black jeans. Miriam’s eyes wandered to his clothed crotch, almost eagerly awaiting to see what he had been hiding from her. With a quiet hiss escaping his lips, he pulled his cock from its confinements, allowing the night’s touch to encircle around him. His cock was thick; the base as big as her wrist. She followed his length down to where his tip was seeping with precum. His cock looked painful in this state – it was so erect and ready to release already. How Javier coped being in this state whilst eating her pussy, she did not know. Seeing her doe eyes look at his manhood like this made Javier smirk as he leant back over her.“See what you do to me, cariño?”‘Oh God…’ She cursed mentally, feeling her pussy throb with apprehension. His words sounded so sexy and the sight of his cock made her want to spread her legs again. She didn’t know what it felt like to have sex but all she knew was that she wanted Javier inside her.Curiosity got the better of her and her fingertips reached out to touch him. His hand encased around hers, stopping her from doing so.“No, mi amor…” He pressed his lips against her hand, making her look at him as he did so. “This night is for you.” With his free hand, he held onto his cock, giving himself a few rubs before positioning himself at her entrance. He looked into Miriam’s eyes, awaiting her approval. As much as he wanted to claim her, he understood that there was a possibility she found this all to be moving too fast and would want to stop. This he would not quarrel. He would cease all advances if it meant she felt comfortable. “Do you trust me?” Javier asked, the moon above him casting its light around them. To Miriam, he looked like the holiest of angels. She smiled warmly, nodding her head.“Yes.” She strongly answered. The corner of Javier’s lip tugged upwards. He kept hold of his cock, sliding it up and down the length of her pussy to coat his length in her cum. She would internally thank him for this kindness later. The tip of his cock sat at her entrance and he pushed into her slowly. All the while, he never broke eye contact with her. All was received well and good until the head of his cock met the resistance of her hymen. Miriam tightly shut her eyes, feeling the beginnings of the pain but her virginity had not yet been taken. Javier squeezed her hand which he was still holding close to his chest.“Look at me, Miriam.” Reluctantly she opened her eyes. She found herself distracted from the pain whilst looking at him. His eyes were so full of adoration, reverence and piety. Perhaps even…… love?Now both the corners of his mouth were pulled upwards, smiling at her wholeheartedly. It was in this moment he snapped his hips forward to break through her virgin barrier, pushing the entirety of his length inside of her. She grimaced at the soreness which engulfed her core but held her view of Javier. He frowned when he saw tears threaten to fall from her waterline again. Never did he wish to hurt her or see her shed such things. He let go of his manhood and placed both his hands either side of her head. Leaning down, he kissed the crook of her neck with airy tenderness.“You’re doing so well… me estas llevando tan buena, mi amor.” (“you’re taking me so good, my love.”) He cooed, his words casting a spell over her, lifting her back to paradise. She silently rolled her hips, signalling for him to move so the pain could be replaced by incomparable pleasure that her romantic novels would so often describe. Javier did as she pleased, holding himself back from giving in to his devilish urges by thrusting selfishly into her. Instead, he grinded against her, only pulling his length back just slightly before rolling his dick back into her. The soreness was ever present yet faltering with each movement. Noticing her pained expression still hadn’t disappeared, Javier moved one of his hands, trailing it down between her thighs. He circled her swollen clit caringly with his thumb, bolts of electricity coursing up her spine. A gasp escaped her mouth and in turn, her pussy pulsed around his cock. The Mexican hissed between his teeth. She was so tight that he couldn’t quite believe he hadn’t already spilled inside her yet. But he knew he could not be selfish. Not this night. He wanted her to feel on top of the world so she would remember this for the rest of her life.“Relax for me, cariño.” He grunted out, slowing down his circles around her clit. Still being under his enchantment, Miriam obeyed and that was when she realised, she could no longer feel the soreness below. Only ecstasy. Like a little dancer, she rolled her hips more in sync with his own, her fuel having been replenished by his sinful actions. Pleased by her actions, Javier’s thumb circled faster around her already sensitive clit; triggering that burning eruption which would soon happen from within her.Pretty sounds poured out of her mouth, only motivating Javier more to see her through. Badly he wished to grab onto her hips and slam their bodies together. He knew he could make her lose her mind. Make her screams be heard throughout the woods all the way back to camp. But he held back. He promised her love this night. Not feral fucking.“Javier… oh, Javier…” Her tone oozed with sugar. Never had his name sounded so sweet before. He gritted his teeth hard, feeling her pussy tightening around his cock with each circle he drew around her clit.“Mierda…” He removed his hand from her core, placing it back beside her head. “Estás apretando… tan apretada.” (“You’re squeezing… so tight.”) His choice of language only made her pussy clench harder, begging for his cum. It took everything he had to not already unload himself inside her. To fight back, he dug his fingers hard into the earth, focusing on that instead of filling her up. He knew it was something he shouldn’t do. After all, the last thing the gang needed was another kid running around camp. They already had Jack to worry about. The life of an outlaw had no place for children.‘Perhaps Jack needs a playmate.’ The devil on his shoulder whispered into his mind. Javier shook away the thought. Then again… the thought of her waddling around the camp with his child in her belly was something so tantalisingly… tempting.“Ja-Ja…vi” Miriam choked on her words. “Javier… I’m… I’m…” She couldn’t even finish her sentence, the overwhelming feeling of her climax beginning to take fold. He retained the same speed of his thrusts, resisting the urge to quicken them. As much as he wanted to come inside her, he knew the risks were too great. He made sure to hover his head over hers, to silently remind her to keep looking at him.“I want to see you, mi amor.” He conducted. “Let me see your pretty face.” Mewling wildly, Miriam arched her back once more, her hips locking in place unable to roll her hips anymore as her climax took over. Javier looked deep into her eyes, cherishing how gorgeous she looked whilst she came. Her cunt clenched around his cock so tightly – Javier held on as long as he could before he had to remove himself from her warmth. As soon as the cold night air kissed his cock, hot spurts of cum darted out, catching on her chemise, thighs and the outside of her pussy. She shakily caught her breath, hiccupping in the back of her throat with each paint stroke of his cum on her bare skin.Idly, he stroked himself, allowing every drop of cum to fall from his length. He hissed with each stroke, momentarily wishing he had met her in another lifetime. A lifetime where he could start a family with her without a second thought. No risks to worry about. No other person he had to protect other than her.“Javier?” Her celestial voice brought him back down to earth. He tucked his manhood back into his jeans, buttoning them back up as he caught her gaze.“Sí, mi amor?” He brought her hand to his lips, awaiting her words.“I… I…” She couldn’t bring herself to say it, remembering Sadie’s words from before. “Thank you.” She sadly smiled.Javier being so engrossed in his thoughts didn’t catch onto the woefulness that was hidden behind her eyes. He warmly grinned at her, using his free hand to place his hat back onto his head.“No…” He leant down, tickling her ear and jawline with his kisses. “Thank you.” A more genuine smile overcame Miriam, little bubbles of laughter leaving her throat.‘Perhaps…’ he thought, in another lifetime – he could be that knight in her story that she loved so dearly?
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
That night felt as though it were a dream. After all it was only in her dreams did Miriam ever think she could do such things with Javier. She was tremendously mistaken. Now, at last, it was her reality.It was the morning after their fruitful intimacy. Javier had managed to sneak both he and her back into camp and to their own tents without notice from anyone. Despite the overwhelming feelings and exhaustive movements from the two of them, neither had been able to sleep properly. Their thoughts of one another plagued their minds. A love sick illness they were glad to give in to.Javier sat at one of the camp’s tables. Basking in the sunlight, he scrubbed the bristled brush against his shoe which was propped over his knee. A usual ritual he would do before he took guard duty. Once the gold plates on his boots were fully shined, he swapped the brush for his Lancaster Repeater which was resting beside him. As he headed over towards the trees, he noticed out the corner of his eye movement from Miriam’s tent. He turned his head over his shoulder, seeing her open the flaps of her tent and pinning them back to allow the rays of the sun to filter inside. Her almond hair glistened against the light despite being messy whilst her tired brown eyes still sparkled unknowingly – he noted how she looked more beautiful than ever like this.Without realising Javier was watching her, Miriam found herself tucking her hair behind her ear and letting out a bashful smile down at the ground. Her memory kept playing on repeat; what they had gotten up to only hours ago. Curious and amused by her expression, Javier walked over justling her to her senses.“Thinking of something nice there, mi amor?” Her heart almost leapt from her chest.“J-Javier…” She cleared her throat, adjusting the fabric of her royal blue dress – the one which she wore in Strawberry. “How are you?” He chuckled coyly.“Good… and you?” A half smile tugged away at her lips. She kept her eyes down to the ground, unable to meet his alluring gaze.“I’m good…” He looked at her, finding her avoidance almost charming. He wanted her to walk right into his hand. Javier was well aware of what she was thinking of.“Is there a reason you can’t look at me…” His curled index and middle finger moved a strand of hair away from her face. The Mexican’s eyes became half lidded, his voice lowering in pitch. “…mi amor?” His tone was like a hot knife cutting through butter. Her knees had almost buckled upon hearing it. Proving him wrong, her eyes met his and she tried her best not to melt before the well-dressed man.“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She playfully replied. That mischievous glint in her eye only made Javier smirk.“Is that so?” She hummed at his words and without another word, she turned on her heel to walk away from him. However, she didn’t make it far because after a couple steps, she found herself staggering and about to fall to the ground due to the soreness between her legs. It was now almost second nature to Javier to be quick enough to catch her and that was what he did. In a split second, he dropped his rifle to crouch down beside her, snaking one arm around her waist and his spare hand holding onto hers. Her body weight was supported by his side, preventing her from meeting the dirt. Embarrassed, her cheeks flared up with heat.“I’m so sorry-” She tried her best to stand back up, but her legs almost felt liquified. They faltered beneath her. “I…” Her blush became darker. “I don’t know why-”“I think we both know why.” His words were laced with seduction making the most welcomed shiver run up Miriam’s spine. She swallowed quietly, slowly and steadily standing back up straight with Javier’s help. Images of Javier’s head between her thighs and the feeling of his cock inside her danced about in her head like glitter from a snow globe. Just thinking about it was already making her want to squeeze her legs together. He turned his head into her, drawing her gaze to him like a magnet. They looked at one another in knowing silence. It was nothing uncomfortable. In fact, it was in content… in awe. Seeing her with rosy cheeks, the faint marks on her neck from his kisses, her out of place locks which still looked soft to touch… Javier found himself leaning closer in to her. Miriam smiled shyly, just about to close her eyes to accept his kiss-“There she is!” An Irish accent attacked their ears making them both look away from each other. A dirty laugh escaped Sean’s lips as he held out his arms as if he were to say ‘behold.’ “Our beautiful lucky charm from the East.” She blinked in confusion at his choice of words.“Lucky?” Ever since she had joined the Van Der Linde gang, nothing but trouble had seemed to have come their way. Especially after the O’Driscoll attack which almost cost Javier his life. The very thought of this made Miriam’s eyes sadden.“Aye!” Sean exclaimed, throwing his arm around her shoulders. Javier watched unamused. “It’s all about perspective, young lass!” Sean looked at Javier and then back to Miriam. The Irishman leant in closer to her, guiding her away from Javier to whisper perhaps not so discreetly. “Ya see, Javier could have died that night. But you were there to save him!” Miriam fumbled over her words, trying to fight against what Sean was saying. She still held immense guilt for Javier being injured on behalf of her.“If it weren’t for me, he would never have-”“Ah don’t be silly! I heard about how you…” Sean adjusted his position so Miriam was in between his arms. He stretched them out and curled his fingers like he was holding onto reins. “steered and wisped him away to safety. How…” Sean then playfully ducked his head left and right, looking over his shoulders with each of his words that followed. “ya dodged bullets, makin’ sure they didn’t hit our Javier!” Despite Sean’s annoying nature, even Javier found himself smiling at Sean’s retelling of the story. Miriam giggled, putting a hand over her mouth.“And who’s version was that?” Sean gestured back behind him.“Javier’s.” Goosebumps prickled over her skin. Despite that situation being her fault, he had still gone out of his way to tell others not the fact she had endangered them both… but that she had saved him. She slowly turned her head to look at Javier. He had a soft expression on his face like he was in deep thought. “And if I remember correctly…” Sean released Miriam and tauntingly leant over to Javier. “wasn’t it Miriam here who also saved you from that cabin with the O’Driscolls?” Javier found himself scoffing lightly. Not out of disgust but out of humour as he looked away. Sean caught on to his lack of eye contact which made the Irish man grin widely. “Ayee… I see why ya keep her around!”Now it was Javier’s turn to get an arm around his shoulder from Sean. Javier shrugged the contact away whilst he adjusted his grip on his rifle. Sean continued on. “I say, ya give her the gun. Clearly, she’s the protector and you, the damsel in distress, huh Javier?” Sean wacked his hand on Javier’s back. The Mexican glared at Sean which in turn made him pause before panic began to set in. He held up his hands in defence. “I didn’t mean nothin’ by it.” Maintaining his composure, Javier turned his body fully to Sean and nodded his head up in a small but threatening manner.“Shouldn’t you be meeting up with Bill and Micah in Rhodes?” Silently thankful for an excuse to leave the awkward atmosphere he had single-handedly created, Sean nodded with a laugh.“That I am.” He gave one more pat on Javier’s shoulder and walked off before Javier could potentially swing for him. Sean being Sean, he couldn’t help but dangle more bait before he left them both alone. “And Miriam… if this boring bastard ever annoys ya…” He exclaimed, referring to Javier whilst at the same time stepping into Ennis’s stirrup to sit in his saddle. Sean winked at Miriam, tipping his hat to her. “Yer more than welcome to come say hi.” With a kick of the stirrups, Sean left the camp. Miriam rolled her eyes, shaking her head. She heard Javier scoff. This time with disgust.“Hijo de puta.” (“Son of a bitch.”) Miriam found Javier’s annoyed aura somewhat alluring. It meant he cared.“So that’s what you’ve been telling them…” She smiled cheekily, slowly swaying her hips over to him. The burning soreness between her legs became less noticeable due to the erotic sensation now taking over. Javier’s half lidded eyes glanced her way, his focus being on her hips. He hummed in agreement.“Hm… and there will be a lot more I will tell them, cariño.” She stopped as soon as it wasn’t physically possible to take another step closer. She looked up at him with sultry eyes.“Like what?” He tilted his head to the side, looking at her cockily.“Like how you’re my girl.” Her smile was smacked straight off her face by his words. She could have fainted right there and then. ‘His girl?’ She thought to herself and her inner teenager screamed in delight at the title. She was holding onto her own hands in an elegant manner before this and now she found herself swirling her fingers around each other, fidgeting out of nervousness. Javier soaked in how picturesque she looked. He clenched his jaw, holding himself back from grabbing her by the hips and pushing her back into her tent to have his wicked way. He loved seeing her all shy and nervous. It only excited him more, thinking about what she would be like when she had her confidence. What things she could do to him.Allowing her to stew over what he had just said, Javier walked away into the distance to start his guard duty. He threw a teasing smile over his shoulder which caused butterflies to flurry around in her stomach. Miriam turned around with her mouth agape, a smile stretching across her features. Eventually she closed her mouth and bit her lip, her grin becoming wider by the second. The man truly excited her.Usually, mornings like these would run smoothly, however this one in particular, everything seemed to have been going wrong. Miriam sat next to Mary-Beth like always, the both of them idly chatting away about various topics whilst sewing some socks. Usually doing small garments like these would be completed in quick succession by Miriam, however for some reason, no matter how many times she tried, she couldn’t seem to get the thread to stay in the fabric. Time after time, it would rip through the sock, leaving behind a bigger hole in its place. Mary-Beth noticed Miriam’s frown.“Somethin’ the matter?” Miriam shook her head, sighing.“I just can’t seem to sew today.” She cursed herself in particular having chosen Bill’s socks to mend first. The man was often picked on by the other gang members and she felt sorry for him. Even if the man didn’t really want to speak to her, she thought it nice to do a small act of kindness for him; just to show that his presence was valued. Mary-Beth nudged Miriam’s shoulder with a knowing smile.“Maybe cos’ you’re thinkin’ about some-one?” This time, Miriam didn’t bite back in her usual flustered manner. Instead, she smiled to herself, looking closer at the needle and sock in her hands, retaining her demure.“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Mary-Beth rolled her eyes, grinning.“Oh, come on, I saw you two this morning being all sweet on each other…” Miriam sweated a little.“Oh… you saw that?”“Mhm. You finally confessed?” Miriam didn’t answer. In response, the green-eyed beauty gasped. “He confessed?” The chestnut-haired woman shook her head, waving her hand away.“No. Not exactly…” Miriam looked up to the clouds, trying to conjure up the correct words. “He… well should I say we… um… perhaps it was… made clear shall we say?” Miriam turned to look at her friend who was looking at her with her mouth wide open. Miriam blinked a couple times. “Um… at least I think that’s what we were trying to… express?”“Miriam!” Mary-Beth almost shrieked. The loudest of secretive giggles could be heard across the camp, catching the attention off others. Her laughter was so contagious that even Miriam couldn’t help but join in. No more words needed to be said between the two, just a knowing cocktail of laughter to acknowledge last night’s events. The mirth attracted a couple of the women over, each with their rifles in hand; Sadie and Karen.“What’s going on here, then?” Karen chortled. Mary-Beth shook her head, wiping away the tears that threatened to fall from her waterline. She couldn’t stop her laughter long enough to be able to answer Karen; thus the responsibility fell onto Miriam.“Oh, nothing. Just boy troubles.” Sadie snickered, slinging her rifle over her shoulder to rest there whilst she lit a cigarette. Karen sighed, sitting next to them, her repeater resting across her lap.“Tell me about it.” The two women stopped laughing, noticing their friend didn’t share the same connotation of the matter.“Is something the matter, Karen?” Miriam asked. Karen tutted.“What isn’t the matter?” She shook her head, looking away from the girls. “It’s Sean.” Sadie rolled her eyes.“She’s been whining about him all mornin’. C’mon, Karen yer’ too good for him.”“Yeah? Well try tellin’ him that!” Karen snapped, almost as if she was yelling across the camp all the way back to Rhodes for Sean to hear himself. “Always flirtin’ with other women. Can’t be serious for more than five minutes. What a child.” Sadie offered Karen a cigarette from her packet which her bustier friend accepted. After Sadie lit her cigarette and took a puff from it, she looked to Mary-Beth, Miriam and then Sadie. “Any one of you ladies wanna take him off my hands?” Mary-Beth spoke for the group.“I am more invested in my writing at the moment.” She gestured over to Mrs Adler. “Sadie would eat him alive and…” Mary-Beth smirked at Miriam. “Well… Miss Miriam isn’t available.” Karen raised an eyebrow, the corner of her lips tugging upwards.“Oh, yeah?” Miriam’s eyes widened suddenly feeling three pairs of eyes burning into her soul. Sadie chuckled, looking away with a shake of her head.“I’m not getting involved with this.” Mrs Adler stated, beginning to walk away. Mary-Beth also found this to be the right moment to take her leave. She decided she needed a break and went to go grab her book. Now it was just Miriam and Karen who remained.“C’mon! You can tell me!” Even though Miriam took a great liking to the intimidating woman, she knew that if she ever needed the whole camp to know something very quickly, then Karen was the first person to give that information to. It was not something that was to be hated about her, but more so to be cautious by. Miriam gave Karen a sympathetic smile.“Uh… perhaps over a drink, later tonight?” Karen wasn’t one to turn down a good time. She pointed her index finger to Miriam and winked.“That’s what I’m talkin’ about.” With that, Karen got up and went to leave her alone. However, before she could do so, Miriam called out to her.“You know… Sean really does like you.” Karen stopped walking but didn’t look back. “I think he just shows off a little to try and get your attention. He gives you…” Miriam smiled warmly, relating to her own experience with Javier. “those eyes.” Karen found herself blinking in thought. She pondered on it for a moment. A few seconds passed and Karen looked over her shoulder to finally acknowledge her new found friend.“Thanks, Miriam.” Miriam nodded to her with a silky expression as she watched her catch up to Sadie, the both of them about to take over guard duty. The chestnut-haired woman took this as her queue to leave her spot and walk back to her own tent.The midday sun rose high in the sky; its blazing heat casting over the camp like an overbearing mother. The camp was mostly empty at this time, due to many others being out on their own missions or trying to find their next lead. The only people that remained were Abigail and Jack who were listening to Hosea read; Swanson, who was in a drunken daze on his bedroll, getting an earful from Miss Grimshaw, Kieran was looking after the horses and the other women. Karen and Sadie were on guard duty whilst Tilly, Mary-Beth and Miriam were in the water, holding the bottoms of their dresses up so they could cool off their ankles. It was a rare moment Miss Grimshaw allowed her girls to have seeing as it was exceptionally hot and they had done their chores on time. The three women made sure to make the most of it.At first all was calm until Tilly ended up kicking water onto Mary-Beth’s dress by accident and then all hell broke loose. An eruption of giggles echoed across the water as the three of them tried to splash each other. To begin with, they tried to only dampen one another’s dress skirts; in the end, it was a battle to see who would be completely drenched first. Miriam, finding herself to be more unlucky rather than lucky, as Sean would put it, was the first to be fully submerged in the water. Not by assault from her friends, but by her clumsy nature. She stepped on one wrong rock and flew backwards into the lake. The other two looked to her in worry, hoping she was alright but once they saw her smile, they laughed right along with her. Soon enough, Miss Grimshaw had joined the scene with a hand on her hip, wondering what all the commotion was. After a few backs and forths, both Mary-Beth and Tilly managed to convince the older woman to join them. During this time, Miriam managed to slip away from the water, deciding she wished for some privacy whilst she dried herself off.Miriam walked away from the water yet continued along the shoreline. On the way, she wrapped her hands tightly around the lengths of her hair and twisted her locks tightly to squeeze the water from them. She threw in a few attempts at this before finally running her fingertips through her hair to try and detangle any knots that had possibly formed. Thankfully, she had always been blessed with smooth hair so any uncomfortable parts soon fell apart and joined the rest of her tameable strands. Leaning against a tree, she lightly hummed to herself whilst also listening to the enjoyable sounds coming from the other women in the water. It was times like these she was truly grateful for. Going back to the times before she joined the Van Der Linde gang, she thought she would never be able to laugh again let alone enjoying the company of other good people. Perhaps Sean was right.Maybe she really was lucky.“Ah, there you are, cariño.” The familiar voice made Miriam’s cheeks ache with glee. Turning her head, she looked to Javier who had relieved himself from guard duty thanks to Karen and Sadie’s insistence. He was no longer wearing his blue jacket, having set that back at his tent along with his repeater. His rolled up white sleeves exposed his gorgeous skin, the sweat from the sun’s bite highlighting each vein and muscle. “Parece que tienes una forma de escapar de mí.” (“It seems you have a way of escaping me.”) Miriam blushed at the foreign words, especially with the dark tone he laced them with.Her non-existent response drew him closer to her, watching her expressions. He knew her enough by now that what she lacked in words, she made up for in thought. He could tell by the spark in her eyes that she was thinking of many things all at once. Javier found himself cocking an eyebrow, seeing the beads of water dripping down from her face to her neck, to the valley between her breasts.“Have fun?” Gently, she nodded. Not once did her eyes leave his. He admired her boldness. Surely, she knew? How utterly irresistible she looked this way, leant against a tree, dripping wet from the water? That was why he found her eye contact to be bold. In the past, she would have looked away from him out of embarrassment. Yet now, it was almost as though she was… tormenting him. Albeit innocent her actions, Javier was always attracted to deeper meanings and unveiling truth.Javier leant in to her and placed his hand on the bark of the tree above her head. For a split second, she broke eye contact to look up at his hand. When her eyes returned to his, he gave her a sly smile. Quietly they acknowledged he had won this little battle of glances. She had a long way to go before she could match Javier’s suave nature.Javier’s spare hand went to brush over her elbow, his thumb circling the bone as if to calm her. Like a predator imitating its prey to gain its trust. No trust needed to be gained however for Miriam welcomed his actions, no matter how frantic the butterflies were within her belly. This time, it was Miriam who wished to make the first move.Lifting her hand, Miriam placed it on Javier’s neck where her fingers pressed into his skin to coax his head further down to her. She went onto her tip toes to lean up where she met her lips with his. So sweetly she breathed into their kiss with the most honey-like noises. Her other hand went to his chest, pressing hard. She didn’t wish for him to move away, but to press more into her which he did. He wasn’t one to back away from a situation like this – especially when it was centred around her. Javier opened his mouth, allowing her to have the satisfaction of being able to infiltrate. Sweetly, her tongue crossed over his lips to his tongue, rubbing it alongside. She frowned into the kiss, thinking back to when he had his tongue between her legs and instantly, her thighs squeezed together. The friction of her own skin made her gasp and Javier took this opportunity to place his hand around her throat, taking over leadership and establishing rightful dominance. She moaned in pitiful protest, but he wasn’t having any of it. He squeezed his fingers a little tighter around her throat, his other hand pressing harder into the bark above her head.“Something you want to say, cariño?” He murmured into her lips, knowing she could hardly put a coherent sentence together in this state. Having a surge of courage swim through her, she moved her hand from his neck to his lips where her fingertips stopped his own from further damage. She lazily blinked at him, her lashes batting against her cheeks like they were in slow motion.“What did you say, earlier?” The question almost felt random, but he understood that curiosity was something that would always get the better of her. In particular when it came to him speaking in Spanish. He snickered, pulling his head back just a slight to look at her whimsical expression.“You seem to always be trying to escape me.” He half answered. Mildly, she shook her head, still boring into his amber eyes.“That’s not true.”“Hm?” He quizzingly answered. The hand above her head moved down to hold her chin so she could not look away from him. Her nervous nature fought badly to look away but she bravely stood her ground.“I would never try to escape you. I would do anything for you.” Almost anything. As long as it didn’t involve admitting the truth. Javier’s smirk only deepened.“Anything?” She smiled shyly, retreating her head back just a little to rest her cheek against her shoulder.“Mhm.” A lustful look glazed over his eyes like a thick fog. His lips connected to the crook of her neck, suckling at her sweet, aqua-touched skin. Her breasts pushed against his chest as she tried her best to lean back for more of his touch. This was deemed difficult due to the tree behind her preventing her from doing so. Both of her hands were now on his shoulders and she clenched at the fabric of his navy vest, physically begging for more. Part of her did not care for the marks he left behind on her skin for it meant the others would know she belonged to someone. Perhaps it would finally stop Micah’s advances and Sean’s flirting. As quickly as they had touched her skin, Javier’s lips left her neck. She frowned out of annoyance for his retreat. Before she could say anything, Javier’s voice brought her back to her mystical reality.“Open your mouth.” Her veins pumped a scolding chill throughout her body.“W-What?” Momentarily, the grip he had around her neck loosened. His silver tongue painted a beautiful picture of words before her.“You said you would do anything.” Suddenly, his grip tightened again but in a way that caused her head to knock back in a timid jolt. Not once did she feel threatened, but aroused by his commanding actions. He gritted his teeth, craning his neck to look down at her. “Abre la boca.” He repeated, this time with a charming venom. Being a slave to his temperament, she obeyed. Parting her lips, she simultaneously rolled her neck back so she was near enough looking to the skies once more. Except, instead of meeting the sun’s blissful whip, she saw Javier’s eyes. She could have sworn that in that moment there was a look of love hidden amongst his copper orbs. As soon as he was satisfied with how wide her mouth was, he lowered his head only a little and spat delicately onto her tongue. She panted, looking to him for her next order.“Tragar.” (“Swallow.”) Obediently, she retreated her tongue back into her cavern and there he watched her throat move by the motion he desired. His cock twitched at the sight. In a hushed manner, he laughed, lowering his hand over the damp fabric which covered her breasts. “You learn Spanish quickly, mi amor.”His hand did not stop at her breasts. It wandered down to her waist and then the curve of her hips. With his other hand, he lifted the heavy fabric of her wet dress enough so he could access her plush thighs with his fingertips. Wanting to be docile and compliant to his every desire, she lifted her leg where he caught it, his hand now resting behind her knee to keep it pinned in this position. His free hand snaked along her skin which was cold to touch due to her encounter with the water. It made it worth the while to experience the change in heat when his middle finger made contact with her warm slick. ‘Mierda’ He damned, feeling how wet she was just from that one command. He slipped the length of his finger further down her slit which made her shudder with a mixture of pleasure and soreness. Being the attentive man he was, he noticed she hadn’t fully recovered from their first night of love-making. He looked to her eyes, making her submit whole-heartedly.“I have a remedy for this, mi amor.” He pressed his nose into her neck and whispered on. “Up.” With a bounce off the balls of her feet, Javier caught her by pinning his hips against her own and leaning his body’s mass into her so she would not fall. By the Gods she swore that the view of him being lower than her would never get old. She enjoyed the idea of being worshipped by him, that she meant so much to him that she would ultimately become his religion – just like the Knight and Princess in her story.For a brief moment, Javier removed his hand from her slit to bring his fingertips to his lips. He spat on them, catching his saliva to then bring it back to her slick where he soothed the saliva over her aching clit. She bit her lip, curving her hips to feel more friction from his touch. Almost immediately she gasped feeling how smoothly his fingers glided around her clit thanks to the cocktail of her fluid and his saliva. No longer did her clit feel sore from his assault hours before. Only euphoria. Her little gasp fluffed Javier’s ego, making him move on to better territory. His middle finger entered her, her walls promptly squeezing around his flesh as he pumped in and out. She couldn’t explain what possessed her, but her nails dug into his shoulders, hard enough to cause the man to groan between his clenched teeth.“Oh my… Javier…” Just like he had done before, he demanded that she looked into his eyes whilst he did this to her. Fighting every urge to curl up and hide, she broke through her shyness and looked at her lover. Rewarding her for her gallantry, Javier pecked the bottom of her lip and pushed his index finger to join his other digit. She grimaced in ecstasy, eyes tightly shutting at the feeling of her inner walls stretching. Javier scowled at her denying him access to her vision.“No.” He stopped moving his fingers, just the raw feeling of her pussy pulsing around him remaining. It was almost as if her cunt was begging for him to continue – it reflected how she felt shown by how quickly she opened her eyes to look at him in disbelief. “You will look at me.” He warned.‘Fuck, Javier…’ She thought to himself, feeling more wetness pool around his fingers. The man was so enticing. So eagerly able to get her going. Now and then, she still questioned whether she was actually alive or if this was some awful coma she had fallen into. He ran his tongue over her bottom lip, a string of saliva connecting them for a short second until he broke it.“If you close your eyes again…” Javier curled his fingers inside her, pressing hard against her g-spot causing her to sharply inhale. His eyes fell dark. “I will fucking stop. Do you understand?” Menacingly, she stared at him for a while, boring deep into his soul. His loving threats made her cunt squeeze. Knowing it was in her best interest to do so, she nodded. “Good girl, cariño.” He praised, continuing to internally massage her pussy.Miriam bit the inside of her cheek so hard she could taste iron. He was so pretty to look at. So amazing to be touched by. Other worldly to bask in his presence. She truly wanted him all to herself forevermore.Javier hastened his pace, curling his fingers every so often in an irregular pattern to surprise her each time. She rested her bare feet over the small of his back thus opening her hips more to him. Inside his head, he praised her once more for being submissive and allowing him to let her feel the best she could. The more rapid he got with his movements, the more sloppily his hand dragged against her wet core. His palm was beginning to brush against her puffy clit, shocking her spine to straighten against the tree. Her toes curled, feeling her orgasm build gradually.“Javier…” Not being able to close her eyes to get lost in the pleasure was torture to the young woman. Her throat felt dry, desperate for her saliva but the constant gasps and moans that escaped her lips prevented her from quenching its thirst.“Sí, mi amor?”“P… P…” She felt pathetic, unable to scramble her words together correctly. “Pl... ple… ase…” Her breath hitched in the back of her throat each time he pushed his fingers back into her, his palm deliberately putting pressure on her clit. “m… make me… make me come… p… pl.. please…” She cooed down to him. He couldn’t find it within him to deny her. That was until he saw her press her eyes shut, surrendering to her own selfish feelings. He was a man of his word and he stopped moving his fingers. Miriam’s eyes snapped open, realising her grave mistake. She looked at him with a betrayed expression plastered across her face. He tutted at her, teasingly expressing his disappointment.“You were doing so well…” Her pleasured tears threatened to spill down her cheeks.“I’m sorry!” She exclaimed without thinking. He said nothing more and went to remove his fingers. Out of rebellion, Miriam’s hand shot down to hold onto his wrist to prevent him from moving away. She begged for him to keep his hand there. For him to continue. She grasped at every plea she could think of to desperately bring back the sensational orgasm that had been building inside of her. Pitifully, she grinded against his hand, praying that he would pick up where he left off. Amused, he left her like this for a moment. He could feel his cock leaking with precum at the erotic sight. He understood perfectly well that if he left her long enough, she could make herself come by puppeteering his hand against her.She had to learn what punishment was. That actions had consequences.“You should have done as you were told, cariño.” More tears fell from her eyes as she felt him remove his fingers from her sopping wet cunt.“Please… Please, Javier…” She sniffled, a tearful and quiet squeak leaving her throat. Gods, it made him want to shove his cock inside her. Breed her. Her reactions were adorable. Desirable.Sinful.Javier brought his fingers up to her mouth which were coated in her warm, runny fluid. It glistened remarkably against his fingers. It looked sweet to taste like sugarcane. Beautifully, she took his fingers inside her mouth, circling her tongue around them. She blushed hard, tasting her essence and in turn she pushed her hips against his, rubbing against his hardening dick. Finally, she suckled on them, closing her eyes as she did so. Javier looked at her with wonder; he soon wished it to be his cock inside her mouth rather than his fingers. What a pretty sight that would be. Once she could no longer taste her juices, due to swallowing it all, she hazily opened her eyes looking at Javier with maxed want. He wiped his thumb over her lips, smearing away any nectar that was left behind. How could he tell her no when she behaved so beautifully for him?“I cannot deny you, mi amor.” He throatily murmured, pressing a deep kiss to her cheek. Javier unbuckled his belt and the sound of it unclipping and falling to the ground made Miriam’s heart skip a beat. She was expecting his fingers, but instead she felt the tip of his cock poking at her entrance. In the end, he was not punishing her; but rewarding her. “Eres tan mimada…” (“You are so spoilt…”) With a harsh thrust, Javier’s cock slipped inside her, pressing all the way deep. The lightest of mewls spilled into his ear as she rested her cheek against his, lips grazing against the lobe of his ear. She sniffled once more, the last of her tears drying for she knew she had finally gotten her way.Javier felt thicker than he did the night before. Perhaps it was by the very fact he knew how she felt and he had been craving her ever since? Maybe it was how badly he wanted to silence her crying? How needing she was of his touch? Whichever reason it was, Javier found himself struggling to keep it together as he pounded into her. If he had his way, he would have been rougher. Made her scream so everyone could hear who exactly was screwing her – yet he still wished to hold onto the element of love making. He felt obligated to. He wanted her to feel loved by him. In actuality, it was a reflection of how he really felt.Miriam clenched tightly around him, squeezing and dragging against the length of his cock each time he withdrew to push back in. It was like her cunt was trying its very best to milk him, to swallow his snowy essence that was soon to come. Sweat dripped from his brow, mustering everything within him to resist. Javier straightened his back, angling his hips closer to hers. The sound of the bark rubbing against the fabric of her dress and the smacks of their skin made the man lose himself for a moment. His forehead fell to the crevice of her shoulder, having to close his eyes and remind himself why he couldn’t finish inside. His loyalty to Dutch was unparallel and didn’t want to endanger Dutch’s vision for a better life by bringing another child into the gang. He had to deny her this one thing, that was at least until Dutch finally brought them to the land of paradise he had promised everyone. A world where they could all live free without fear, without having to fight for the lives anymore. Only then would he be able to give himself fully to her.“Javier!” The Mexican snapped away from his thoughts and looked up at Miriam who was now arching her back to ride out her orgasm. Selflessly, Javier bashed his head against the tree beside her neck, pressing hard so the pain could distract himself from letting his cock spill. He focused on pumping into her so she could feel the entirety of pleasure she so deserved. Her pussy spasmed, tugging and tightening around his cock like a vice. She felt so exquisite coming on his cock. A dangerous feeling he wanted to savour for as long as he could until inevitably, he had to pull himself from her. Just as she was riding out the last glimmering moments of her climax, Javier pulled his cock from her and pumped his hand near the base, watching his cum splash over her throbbing heat. He stroked himself for a few moments before tucking himself back inside his jeans and gently setting Miriam down to her feet. She wobbled, unable to gain her balance right away; like always, he caught her. This time, he kissed her as he pulled her to her feet, lacing his fingers through her own. His cum trickled down her thighs slowly and she found herself getting light-headed at the feeling of it.Javier brought one of her hands to his chest, squeezing it before breaking his kiss with her.“Perhaps you should join your friends again.” A sultry tone entangled his suggestion. Tucking her hair behind her ear, she replied.“You could join us?” Sniggering, he looked away shaking his head. He seemed to have considered it for a moment, but ultimately refused. He turned her around with a smooth flick of his wrist. She was now facing the water where she could see Miss Grimshaw, Tilly and Mary-Beth in the distance. Javier stood behind her, placing both his hands on her hips. A shiver ran down her spine when she heard him whisper in her ear.“No quiero compartirte.” (“I don’t want to share you.”) He placed one of his hands on her backside and pushed her lightly forth. Not understanding what exactly he meant, but assuming he meant he would join her later, Miriam walked towards her friends, looking back over her shoulder at Javier. They silently looked at one another before Miriam’s vision went back to the water.Time stood still for Javier. Watching her walk away felt bittersweet. He found himself grateful to the heavens for allowing him to share his heart with someone like her.After all these years of praying, it felt like God had finally blessed him with an angel.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
No laughter could be heard in Clemens Point. Only the sounds of sorrowful whispers and sombre silence. The sun was setting in the West, like the closing of a tearful eye. The golden rays were not as grand as they used to be; just a dim glimmer of orange and bloodied red reaching across the horizon. A shell of its former self. The last chance effort of light desperately stretching across the woods touched a wooden cross with Sean Macguire’s name engraved upon. Lonesome stones buried across to keep his body entombed within the earth.Mournful and regretful, Karen knelt before the grave, her head hung low. The gang members had held a small moment of silence for him just minutes ago. Now, the sounds of their footsteps could be heard walking back towards the camp. All but Miriam and Sadie’s who stayed behind for their friend. Sadie felt it a sense of familiar duty to check if Karen would be okay, whilst Miriam felt guilt for the words she had spoken to Karen only hours before. The brunette wondered to herself if it would have been easier for Karen to cope with Sean’s death if she had still been mad at him. However, as Miriam knelt beside Karen, looking over to see her silent tears falling down her pale cheeks; she knew she was wrong.Love is love.“Karen?” No answer. Miriam reached out her hand, placing it on Karen’s lap, grabbing her hand. “I’m so sorry.” Her words were honest. The only response Karen could muster was an audible sob and a gentle squeeze of the hand. Her blonde locks stuck to her tearful cheeks, the memory of Sean possessing her. The only thing that felt right to do, was to embrace her friend. Unsurprisingly to Miriam, Karen leant into the hug, holding onto Miriam’s arms for dear life. Afterall, despite Karen’s tough nature – she was only human. No more words were exchanged between the women. Miriam held onto Karen, whilst Sadie watched them both with a bleak expression.The pain women experienced in their lifetime could never compare to anything else.The trio remained this way for a little over an hour. The top of the sun had almost fully disappeared below the skyline, thus leaving behind splashes of scarlet and indigo; the darkness of night close to taking over its reign. Eventually, Sadie convinced the two that sitting out in the cold would do none of them any good; that a place by the fire would be best.All Karen could do that night was stare blankly into the burning fire, her fingers clutching around the blanket which Javier had kindly given to her before he sat next to Miriam on the log. Arthur and Bill also sat around the fire, thinking out endless possibilities of what they could have done differently that day. Arthur seemed to have been taking it harder than Karen. Sean was like a younger brother to him. Perhaps more so than John.Bill too looked regretful. Mindful. The only coping mechanism he had was the bottle of beer he clung to tightly. He felt a sense of responsibility, like he should have known this would have happened. Maybe it was the essence of a soldier that still lived within him, once proud and honourable. He should have made the call himself. Spoke against meeting in Rhodes. Yet this was only a sprinkle of what he wished he could be – a leader. In the end, he was only good at following orders.Micah on the other hand was nowhere to be seen. Most likely the outskirts of the camp, sharpening his knife. His view on the matter was that they were a gun down. But at least it was one less mouth to feed. Despicable, heartless yet painfully logical thoughts. Micah was never one to falter to sentimental thoughts. He was simply incapable of it. He had more important things to think about, to plague his mind with. Revenge. Survival. All these things tickled his fancy. They motivated him all the more to making sure the downfall of certain gang members was inevitable. For now – it would start with Miriam. In due time, he would expose her for what she truly was and watch the chaos ensue.The fire crackled on, almost biting at Karen’s face. The heat felt like a foreign stranger to her. She was unbothered by its taunt. Miriam watched her, sadly. She hated seeing someone she cared about experience this kind of pain. Miriam had come close to it before but Javier managed to pull through. Karen was not blessed with such an outcome. Or Sean for that matter.Javier wordlessly looked at his comrade’s faces, respectfully staying muted to honour Sean’s memory. Although, he knew deep down that this wasn’t what Sean would have wanted. Subsequently, Javier was the first to break the silence.“Remember when Sean started that bar fight back in Armadillo?” No one spoke; however, everyone’s eyes had been pulled away from the fire to look at Javier. The Mexican stroked his fingers around his mouth, supressing a laugh. “He got so drunk; the bartender offered him some water and then that was it.” Javier’s chuckle escaped him. “He grabbed him by his collar and threw him at Bill-” This earnt a short snicker from Bill.“Then I threw him into Arthur.” Bill added. Arthur soon found himself smiling.“And if I remember correctly, Sean then went behind the bar and served his own damn drinks. Crazy fool.” Arthur finished. Javier shook his head, smiling. Arthur rose an eyebrow, pointing to him. “You didn’t help, Javier. You told him what drinks to pour.”Laughter softly danced around the fire, coming from both Javier and Bill. Even Miriam found herself grinning at the tale. Bill very quickly got up from the crate he was sat on and walked off to one of the tables to grab a few more bottles of beer. When he came back, he handed everyone a bottle each.“I say, we drink to Sean.” Bill bolstered. Arthur nodded, taking a very quick swig before speaking.“That might be the first good idea you’ve ever had.”“Sí.”“Ha. You can say that again.” At last, Karen finally spoke. She lifted her bottle, frowning at the flames before her. She couldn’t bring herself to start the words, so Javier stood up and spoke them for her as he raised his own bottle.“For Sean.” The others repeated after him before drinking back their liquor. A second or two of silence followed; yet in that time, all the memorable things Sean did flooded in their minds. Each had different scenarios, differing situations. All those moments were happy. Because that was what Sean was.The embodiment of happiness.“I’m gonna miss that boy.” Arthur solemnly said.“As will I.” Miriam replied in softness. “I didn’t know him long, but from what I saw – he was a good boy.” Arthur, Javier and Karen nodded. Bill flung his head back to take another gulp. He wiped his lips, letting out a loud sigh.“He was one crazy bastard.” Bill gruffly spoke. Javier nodded, lowering his head between his shoulders; his elbows propped on his knees and his arms hanging over the insides of his legs.“Sí. He was always willing to come along when we got a lead. No matter how dangerous the situation was.”“Probably because he knew Karen would be there to lick his wounds.” Karen’s mouth hung wide and she slapped Arthur’s upper arm as punishment for his comment.“I did no such thing!”“Not what we heard.” Bill attached to the latter. An unserious bicker-fest darted back and forth between the older gunslingers and Karen. Javier and Miriam sat back and watched the feud, smiling quietly to themselves. The raven-haired male leant back on his hand which was ever so close to Miriam’s behind; the slight jig from her laughter made him realise this. Craftily, Javier moved his hand to the round of her ass, rubbing it gently. A tingle spilt down her spine, suddenly aware of his presence. Aware the other three were busy arguing, she turned her head to Javier to catch his sight, only for him to look at her with a sensuous look in his eye. Against the citrus colours of the fire, Miriam soaked up how inviting he looked. He was so coy with his expressions – he knew all too well what they did to her and thus was pleased with how long she managed to look at him without shying away.She returned the look, tilting her head so her waves fell against her shoulder. The young woman even straightened her back more, making her breasts look fuller; to persuade Javier’s temptations. Javier exhaled audibly through his nose, thus making Miriam realise her stares and poses were influencing the man. Before it could get out of hand, Miriam stood up and held onto Javier’s hand to pull him with her as she walked away from the group.Slipping away unnoticed, Miriam pulled Javier towards the shoreline soon letting go once they were far enough away from camp. Turning on her ankles, she brought her arms around Javier’s neck, pulling him in to press her lips on his. The kiss was so delicate. As light as the feathers which fell from the flight of owls. The gentleness of the mysterious woman’s fingertips running down his neck gave Javier goosebumps. Pulling away, she remained in the trance of his eyes whilst she pulled her thoughts from her mind like a ribbon leaving a most treasured gift. Curiosity whisked behind Javier’s coffee-coloured eyes.“Mi amor, what troubles you?” Hesitation came before her words.“I… Sean meant a lot to Karen.” He rose his eyebrow.“Sean meant a lot to all of us.”“And you mean a lot to everyone.” The comment made Javier look away with half a smile. He had never really thought about what he meant to others. Only what others meant to him. How much Dutch meant to him. In a country which was claimed as ‘the land of the free’ he felt no freedom when he first arrived. Only neglect. To him, it was a country which desired selfishness above benevolence. Greed over charity. There was an eerie unwillingness to help. That was until he met Dutch Van Der Linde.Lost in his thoughts, Miriam took notice and moved her hand to his cheek to make him look down into her eyes.“You mean a lot to me, Javier.” Her words made the pupils of his eyes dilate. His hands, which were perched on her hips, squeezed tighter into the fabric of her dress. The material curved over her shape so wondrously, crinkling in all the right angles for his thick fingers to press between. He pressed hard enough to print pink finger marks into her skin, even through the dress – though she did not pay any heed. “And I don’t want anything to happen to you.” Her thumb brushed over his cheek. “Ever.”“Why are you saying this?”“Because-” Her breath hitched in her throat, her lungs sucking in a newfound energy to radiate her feelings. Her eyes flickered between his two orbs, admiring the handsome and forgiving man whom she was falling for. “If I tell you the truth, bad things will follow.” Javier dug his nails into her hips as if he was hoping to expel the answers from her lips.“Then I accept those bad things.” Miriam shook her head.“You don’t mean that.” Frowning, Javier pushed against her hips, making her take a few steps back.“I do.” He lowered his head more to try and look into her eyes but she looked away. Her heart burnt with a pain that was hard to describe. Torn between duty and love. “Miriam.” He tried to reclaim her attention yet to no avail. It was as though she could not face her own truth, yet alone bring herself to tell Javier. He decided to lower his voice, speaking to her below the volume of a whisper. “Tell me.” His lips hovered over the lobe of her ear where sapphire teardrop earrings swayed with the rhythm of his breath. “ Tell me.”“Javier. I cannot give you that burden. You mean…” With both her hands, she held onto Javier’s face, turning her head so the tip of her nose was touching his. “… I… mean it when I say… you mean a lot to me.” She repeated, this time emphasising the meaning behind her words. They were heartfelt and honest. Her feelings were an eternal cycle which constantly grew in power. It was like a black hole, slowly beginning to take over her reality – an other worldly atmosphere which she could no longer try to resist.“Maybe…” The Mexican rebel pushed his thumbs down into her pelvic bone, making her shudder under his dominating touch. “… you mean a lot to me.” Miriam’s eyes widened a slight. She felt a euphoric sickness take over her chest.“Javier…”“Where is my son?!” The couple snapped their heads to the direction of the camp. Javier released Miriam’s hips and held onto her hand.“Come on.” The two of them ran towards the sound of Abigail’s distressed voice. Before they could reach her, Lenny and Bill joined paths with them.“Javier!” Bill called out, alerting him to the situation at hand.“They took Jack!” Lenny exclaimed, clutching onto his rifle. Miriam’s blood turned cold whilst Javier’s turned hot with anger.“Who?” Javier’s tone was entangled with confusion and bubbling rage. Through his fingers, Miriam could feel his grip tighten with the increasing heat emitting from his palm.“Kieran said he saw a couple Braithwaite boys lingering by. Musta snatched him, the bastards…”“Then what are we waiting for? Let’s go get him.” It had been five years since Javier left Mexico, yet not a single ounce of his bravery had left him. He was and always would be the rebellious leader that so many admired and looked up to. To help those who needed saving, that was something which was engraved into Javier’s very soul.Not being able to process Javier’s words fast enough, Miriam watched Javier let go of her hand and walk towards Dutch where Hosea and Arthur were trying to calm down Abigail. Seeing the tears begin to well in her eyes made Miriam’s heart clench. Right away, she ran over to the ebony-haired woman, holding onto her arm and shoulder to comfort her.“Abigail… I’m so sorry.”“My son, Miriam. My son!” Amongst the sobs, Miriam continued to comfort her whilst the men figured out a plan of action. She hadn’t interacted much with Abigail, but the few times they had spoken; it was always a pleasant conversation. She had even bonded with Jack, looking after him if Abigail needed to do something which required her absence. Whilst Hosea preferred to teach Jack to read, Miriam opted to read to the young boy. He always listened enthusiastically, loving the way she would read. It had been noted a couple times by other gang members that Miriam was well spoken, a few of them speculating what kind of background she came from. Even Molly saw similarities between herself and Miriam.The sound of the men stepping into their horse’s stirrups echoed across the camp. With a snap of her head, Miriam looked to Javier who strode towards Boaz. It was then she realised that they all planned to confront the Braithwaites; who were an armed family not to be trifled with. A feeling of danger clasped around her heart, trapping it within its ominous claw. Unable to ignore the pounding of her beating heart, she dashed towards Javier, stopping him before he could mount his horse. Her fingers wrapped around his which hung by his side.“Javier, you- why must you-” He stopped walking and turned his head to look over his shoulder at her. She looked to him with heavy eyes; an unbearable worry starting to engulf her.“Miriam…” He breathed. “I must go. This is my family.” She shook her head, frowning.“But-”“Cariño.” Javier firmly stated, stopping Miriam from uttering any more pleas. He held her face between his hands. “Where Dutch goes, I follow.” His words stung.An unwavering loyalty that would no doubt be his downfall.He watched her steer her beautiful cocoa eyes away from him, now focusing on the dew which slid down the petals of the indigo forget-me-nots. He tucked her hair behind her ear in his longing attempt to get her to understand his way of life.“Loyalty is everything to me.”“Even if it means dying?” Her words were sharp like a whiplash to the face. They rattled something within him – making him pause in thought, unsure for the smallest of moments. As quickly as he entered that state, he snapped out of it and shook his head.“I won’t die.” His answer was absolute; oozing with confidence. No doubt or even a shred of uncertainty. He leant in closer, his forehead pressing against hers. “Not if you’re waiting for me.” A short, weak bubble of a laugh left Miriam. She composed herself, falling silent again. She pulled away from his contact to look into his eyes.“I’ll always wait for you, Javier.” A glimmer of elation danced across his eyes. He brought both of her hands to his lips and kept them there for as long as he could – until the sounds of spurs clicking against the horses caused him to release her. In one swift motion, he climbed up onto Boaz and looked back at Miriam one last time.“I’ll come back to you, mi amor.” He smiled from underneath his hat; the shadow casting over his eyes. “Te prometo que.” (“I promise you.”)Seconds turned to minutes and those minutes turned to hours. The sky had darkened terribly since the absence of the Van Der Linde men. The only men who were left behind to look after the camp were Kieran and Micah yet their presence was not something to feel at ease by. Kieran after all had once ran with the O’Driscolls and Micah… not much was needed to be said about him. Sadie and Karen were the ones who held the rifles on the boarders of Clemons Point. Anyone who dared to cross them would be fools.Miriam sat beside Abigail through this anxious void of time. Not many words were said between the two; only the whispers of how everything would turn out okay. That Jack would be reunited with his mother. That surely no one could actually hurt a little boy. Much to be expected – these words could not reassure the young mother. Abigail could only thank Miriam for trying and asked if she could be left alone. Understanding, Miriam left the grieving parent in her tent and retreated to her own.Closing the flaps of her tent behind her, Miriam placed her hands on her hips and looked up to the ceiling of the tent. She took a deep breath and released it slowly. The memory of Javier being badly wounded raced through her mind unexpectedly. She repeated the same action as before. Upon her next exhale, a lump formed in her throat. Her hands fell from her hips and wrapped around her own body as though she was comforting herself. She knew the more she waited for him, the more she would worry. Miriam found the only logical thing for herself to do was to undress and bury herself into her bedroll which laid upon a rug of pronghorn hide. She wished nothing more than for Javier to return to her and to sleep away her worry. Her eyes shut with a simple flutter yet no slumber claimed her.Her head chanted a constant beating of drums. An awful concoction of dread and woe soared like the wings of the dragons which ruled the lands in her book that she loved so dearly. No peace could come of her lonely thoughts. Just prophetic inklings of what could be. The night’s wind blew through the cracks of her tent, causing her to shiver at its bite. Lying on her side, her knees drew closer to her chest, hoping for some remedy to stop the cold attacking her skin. Her prayers were answered. A warm and light touch pressed against the length of her neck. Not registering what it was and still being trapped mentally by her worries, she leant against it. A soft moan left her not long before feeling a slight dip in the bedroll paired with a familiar presence behind. Feeling an arm snake around her waist caused Miriam to snap her eyes open in realisation. Not hesitating a moment longer, she turned her head over her shoulder. There she met with his beautiful dark amber eyes.“Javier!” She exclaimed before rolling over to place both her hands on his cheeks. Her heart was beating so hard she could have sworn he could feel its very pulse against his own chest. Their lips connected in a wholesome and still kiss which lasted no more than a few seconds. He was the first to pull away, cocking an eyebrow and quirking the corner of his lip upwards.“I told you I’d come back to you, cariño.” His cocky expression made Miriam shake her head with a knowing smile.“I was worried you wouldn’t-” His lips silenced her.“You worry too much.” He murmured against her, the both of them closing their eyes to succumb to a more passionate array of kisses. Miriam placed her fingertips against his lips to stop his advances – a concerned expression taking over.“Jack? Did you get him back?” A more serious look overcame Javier as she lowered her hand to his chest. A silent shake of his head answered her question. Quietly, he explained to her what had happened at Braithwaite manor and more importantly, where Jack currently resided. Miriam’s eyes remained sorrowful, upset that the boy had not returned to his mother whom missed him more than words could say. Miriam’s fingers curled around the collar of his sage-coloured waistcoat. Her eyes never left his as he told her each detail for he wanted to ease her of all her worries. She would once more raise her hand to place it on his cheek, this time giving him a weak yet hopeful smile. “But you… you’re okay?” He simply smirked.“Haces que mi corazón sangre...” (“You make my heart bleed…”) His large hand pressed over her hand which was still against his chest – hard enough for her to feel his heartbeat. “¿Lo sientes?” (“Do you feel it?”) She searched his eyes, trying to find a hint of what he was saying and somehow… she understood what he meant. His eyes became half-lidded; for he knew that the woman before him could easily piece together what he was saying just by looking into his soul. “¿Sientes cuánto mi corazón te anhela?” (“Do you feel how much my heart yearns for you?”) Her own heart began to swell just listening to the sound of his voice uttering the most beautiful language in the world.“Javier…”“Miriam…” His other hand traced over her bent knees, his fingers tickling yet soothing her skin there which gave her goosebumps. Finally, he pressed his palm to her inner thigh, cherishing the feeling of her gorgeous bare skin. “May I share your bed tonight?” Needing no time for a second thought, she nodded her head. With a warm smile, he placed a chaste kiss on her cheek and then proceeded to sit up to remove his clothes. He started with his jacket, then his waistcoat and then began to unbutton his white shirt after removing his boots and socks. All the while, he kept on his bowler hat. The shadow which cast over his eyes made Miriam shudder with known delight. How badly she wanted to just sprawl out on her back and spread her legs for him. However, there was always an innocent part of her that weighed the possibility of him not wanting to do such things with her. How very wrong that side of her was.Javier finished unbuttoning his shirt and removed his hat, finally revealing his intoxicating eyes to her once more. They were like magnets to her, causing Miriam to sit up and perch her ass on the heels of her feet. Her eyes glanced down at his chest which was teasing through the open slit of his shirt. His toned muscles looked like a Greek statue carved to perfection. He rolled his shoulders back and removed the material to fully expose his front to her. A throbbing warmth pooled between her legs – especially when he looked at her like this; a predator wanting to devour his helpless prey. His eyes flicked down to her chest, seeing faint round outlines of her nipples trying to peak through her chemise.He brought his hand to her breast, cupping it and giving it a rough squeeze. Miriam gritted her teeth together, almost hissing at the new sensation. He leant down to place a couple kisses over her sheltered nub. Without warning, his lips latched around it and began suckling through the fabric. Her head knocked back, a hiss no longer coming out but a groan of delight. Her pussy throbbed harder, tainting her thoughts with pure filth. If his lips felt this good with a barrier in between, how good would they feel being around her bare nipple? Somehow, despite all they had been through, she felt too shy to request such unholy things. Javier on the other hand was no angel. He lifted his head to look at her, his fingertips teasing at the thin strap which was keeping up her chemise over her breast.“May I?” A curt nod was her response, followed by Javier’s actions. Pulling down the strap past her arm, the fabric followed after, exposing her beautiful round breasts. Hungrily, Javier wrapped his lips around her hardened nipple. He suckled religiously like he was desperate to quench his never-ending thirst. Skilfully his hands removed Miriam’s chemise completely, slipping it under her knees and past her ankles. He threw it aside, not caring where it went. All that mattered to him was the pleasure his lover was experiencing. The very feeling of her nails digging into his shoulders pleased him.It wasn’t long before Miriam found herself longing for Javier to be just as bare. Her hands left his shoulders to reach down to the buckle of his belt. She fought with it for a mere second, her brain being frazzled by his electric mouth. Soon enough, she released the hold of the belt and helped him remove his jeans. His cock brushed past her thigh, causing Miriam to bite her lip; anticipating what was to come later. His size still made her weak at the knees, her pussy pulsing in excitement for the stretch it would soon feel.Her sinful thoughts were interrupted by Javier’s teeth trapping her nipple between them. Miriam’s hands returned to his shoulders, holding tightly onto them for support as she yet again knocked her head back with her mouth wide open. His tongue soothed over his teeth marks imprinted around her nipple, soothing her in sweet apology. She prayed to her God for some surge of confidence to course through her – to help her show this man how much she was truly devoted to him. Lucky for Miriam; her God smiled upon her this faithful night. Miriam knelt up from her ankles and swung her leg over Javier so now he was between her thighs. As she went to slide down towards his groan, her soaking wet cunt brushed against his lower abdomen, coating him in her slick. His mouth pulled back from her hardened nipple and he sighed in content.“Mi amor…” He looked down at his now shiny abdomen, admiring how beautiful her cum looked on his skin. “You’re so wet.” His mouth went to her other side of her chest, but this time, his tongue slid over the entirety of her breast, sloppily coating it in his saliva. In that moment, the wind from outside the tent wisped through and stung her breast in its bitter touch. The feeling was sensational. He was so talented with his mouth. A part of her wanted to swap the feeling of his tip sliding against her entrance for his tongue. She swallowed, trying to focus on what she wanted to do yet she found herself biting her lip in nervousness.“J-Javier…” Steering his head away from her chest, he looked up at her with question. Her cheeks grew rosy. “I… I want to ride you… but I’m not sure how.” A burning need to fuck her senseless for making a comment like that brewed within the Mexican rebel, but he resisted. Just. He chuckled, tucking her hair behind her ear and gave her temple a peck. He proceeded to whisper in her ear.“I’ll teach you, cariño.” Javier’s hands rested on her voluptuous hips and he gently applied some pressure to coax them down. She followed his silent instruction, keeping her hands on his shoulders to steady herself. Once she was low enough, Javier stopped applying pressure and released one of his hands to hold onto his cock. He groaned ever so quietly whilst giving himself a couple strokes. With precum now leaking from his tip, he positioned his cock at her entrance and gave her next instruction. “Sit.” He plainly stated to which she obediently did as she was told. Lowering herself slowly, his tip slipped past her folds and invaded her entrance. Despite her wetness, she still found it hard to fit him inside of her. She frowned trying to wiggle her hips impatiently. Javier released his cock so both his hands were now on her hips. The male smiled, brushing the tip of his nose against her cheekbone. “Slowly, mi amor.” Just like he said, she slowly lowered her pussy down until she reached the base. She sat there, panting quietly at just how much she felt stretched by him. She had forgotten how thick his cock really was. Perhaps it was the angle, or perhaps it was the unreasonable desire to be fucked hard by him but she felt fuller than ever. Javier sighed again in content yet this time his breath was more jagged and hard to control. He placed one hand behind him to lean back on and he looked up into her eyes where she was searching for her next order. “Now lift yourself, mi amor.”With the aid of his solo hand on her hip, Miriam sat back up on her knees until Javier’s cock was almost all the way out of her. He squeezed her flesh to stop her, not wanting her warmth to leave him. He gave her a small nod. “And lower back down…” She obeyed. He repeated his instruction. And she obeyed. Her pussy clenched, enjoying the friction. His cock twitched inside of her, sharing the same sentiment. Eventually, Javier laid down on his back, allowing Miriam to take control. Her rhythm became more natural, her body moving on its own as if such an act was always meant to be. Javier’s fingers pushed between her plump flesh surrounding her pelvic bone as he praised her.“Buena chica.” A loud groan escaped him when he felt her roll her hips, unable to stop her cycle of lust. Miriam panted; a mixture of pleasure and fatigue swirling together like a forbidden potion. Her pussy pulsed around his cock, milking every drop of precum which left him. The young woman’s movements got faster yet her pants got louder and her legs began to quake.“Ja… Ja… Javier…” She lowered her head, a few strands of her wavy locks now glued to the sides of her temples. “I… I…” Embarrassed to admit how tired she was, Javier caught on and placed his hands on the cheeks of her ass.“Good girl.” He stretched apart her ass cheeks before pushing himself up into her. “You’re such a good girl, cariño. You did so well.” His coos made her face retreat into the crook of her shoulder. His praise was something she now craved for. Her new addiction. Javier smirked at her shyness, knowing perfectly well how much she enjoyed him complimenting her. Something he would note for the future. “Now… let me make you come.” Before Miriam could register his words, Javier pulled himself out fully from her and slammed her back down to the base of his cock. A high-pitched moan echoed in the tent, causing her to slap her hand over her mouth to silence herself. Through her spread fingers, mewls still befell her lips yet in a more hushed tone. Javier made each thrust of his hips harder and harder for Miriam to keep herself quiet. The raven-haired male did not care if anyone else heard them. In fact, it was something he encouraged. He wanted them to know it was him who was fucking pretty little noises out of her. That only he could make her feel this good.Javier’s mouth hung open feeling his cock swell, ready for release. With all his might, he closed his mouth and clenched his jaw tightly. He knew she was close by the way her cunt insisted on squeezing tightly around his length. Her ass cheeks clapped down harmoniously against the skin of his thighs, almost taunting him to fill her to the brim.“Mierda…” He didn’t know how much he could hold on for. “Let go, mi amor…” Dangerously, he risked a heavy and forceful snap of his hips against her own to stuff his cock deeper into her cunt. Then another. And another. One more and it tipped her over the edge.“Oh God… Javier… I’m…” He was about to let go also but reminded himself the severity of doing so. Yet he selfishly wanted to feel her pussy squeeze onto his cock for dear life. Miriam’s orgasm erupted through her body, making her limbs tremble with ecstasy. Javier kept thrusting into her hazardously, wanting to stay buried inside her whilst she rode out the last of her orgasm but he held on for too long. With a sharp gasp from him, he felt the heat of his cum slip out from inside her and he quickly lifted Miriam from him where the rest of his seed shot up her belly. The chestnut-haired woman felt the heat of his seed inside her; even if it was the tiniest amount, and she quivered in euphoria.Javier’s chest felt immensely heavy and sweat dripped down his brow from how close he was to possibly impregnating her – if he hadn’t already.Clearing his throat, he turned his head to look for something he could use to clear them both up with. Finding a small brown rag, he clenched it up into a ball before swiping it delicately over Miriam’s belly where his cum had decorated her. She smiled at his caring touch and leant down to kiss his forehead. She understood why he was careful. Perhaps not all the reasons behind it, but educated enough to see what dangers it could impose on the gang. Javier loved the Van Der Linde gang more than anything.However, as she led on Javier’s chest, lulling asleep to the careful touch of his fingers soothing through her hair… she couldn’t ignore the tiny hot splash of his cum inside her. It felt amazing. She could only fantasise what it would feel like for him to fully release inside.She knew it was wrong of her to think of such things. Yet she absolutely knew it would feel so right.Javier listened to the soft exhales which left her nose whilst she fell into a light sleep. He felt… ashamed. Not from what he had almost done – but from how badly he desired to fully become one with her. The more he made love to her, the more his mind wandered off to a paradise where he could raise a family with her.Far away from the Van Der Linde gang. Away from the Heartlands. Back to Mexico, his home. He could envision Miriam wearing a beautiful white dress, reaching up to pull lemons from a tree, with a small child clinging onto her leg – afraid to wander too far from their mother’s side.Yet he knew… it was only a pretty dream. A faraway thought, perhaps never to come true.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Shady Belle – A hidden jewel within the swamps of Lemoyne. The Van Der Linde gang had been pushed even further East thanks to the looming threat of the Pinkerton Detective Agency. The age of the new world was dawning upon them and yet Dutch still insisted on opposing the dangers striving towards them. Water and oil; a tragic tale of what will never be. A fusion to never co-exist.Time was running out. Yet Dutch still held onto hope. Still. Was it hope? Or selfishness? Did he truly love the very souls whom he led astray or were they pawns in his game of deceit? In this moment, those questions could not be answered with confidence. There was still time. Time to make amends. It all depended on Dutch and those who stood by his side.Hosea heavily influenced Dutch in the most mundane yet omnipotent way. Being by Dutch’s side all these years had kept the leader on the right path most of the way. He gave Dutch the wings he needed to fly. The voice he needed to preach. The knowledge to keep those they could alive. The love to keep everyone bonded. Hosea had a particular gift in these sorts of things. He was by no means an angel but human. He understood emotions well, having experienced a lifetime of his own trials and tribulations. The elder gentleman was one folk would go to for advice, the one who they approached without hesitation. Even those who hesitated would find themselves at ease after exchanging conversation.This golden morning, Hosea decided to make his own approach to the one who perhaps needed his guidance the most.“How you doing, Miss Miriam?” The doe-eyed woman looked up from her book. Upon seeing Hosea, she gave the man a warm smile, twisting her perched figure which sat on the edge of the stone fountain. She straightened out the creases of her dress, somewhat salvaging a respectable appearance despite the sweat which glossed across her skin. She had never experienced such thick, warm air like this before – much like many of the other camp members. The cold was something she thrived in. Frosty mornings and bitter nights had always been her preference.“Good morning, Mr Matthews. I’m fine, thank you. And yourself?” He ignored her question. His way of words was always to put another in the spotlight. Selfless and soul searching.“The heat is pretty unbearable?” A small quirk of her bottom lip caught his eye. It made him smile, knowing he was close to breaking down that barrier. Not that he wished to intrude – he only wanted what was best for each member. If that meant breaking down their barriers to help understand them more, then that was a battle he was willing to slowly win.“It is really hot here…” Hosea pulled his fingers against the inside of his neck tie in agreement.“I guess you’re not used to the heat.” His statement made Miriam hesitate. In the end, she shook her head with a small smile. The older gent’s eyes scanned her, piecing her together like some intricate puzzle just waiting to be solved. He had been a good judge of character. He knew there was nothing deviant about the young woman. His mind only wondered why she kept so many secrets. Something as big as her identity. To him, it made sense she had to be someone of importance or someone on the run for doing something bad. Or both.Taking the opportunity, he pressed. “I suppose the cold is more to your liking?” She nodded. This prompted a chuckle from Hosea, thinking of a passing joke. “Then you would have liked it up in them mountains…” His thoughts trailed off, thinking back to that time of darkness for the gang. Letting his head take over, he subconsciously sat down beside Miriam, resting his elbows on his knees. His hands intertwined to lace his fingers together, his head hanging lower in thought. The silence made Miriam look closer at the man. She could read his eyes – how much hurt he had experienced from the past. The slight remnants of fear which resided within. The young woman understood that ‘the mountains’ were not a good time for anyone. She wished to offer words of comfort but how could she when she knew so little about the situation. About their history. It was not her place to. “You ever been up that way? Past Colter?” A shake of her head made Hosea lift his eyebrow. “Too cold for you?” The comment confused her and without thinking she answered.“No. I love the cold. It’s just been a little too far West for me- the snow that is.” Placing the pieces together quickly in his mind, Hosea effortlessly chimed in leaving her little time to think.“So East?” Miriam’s eyes opened wide in disturbance. A pause was set between his voice and her own.“I’m sorry?”“You’re from the East then.” It wasn’t a question. It was a statement. Goosebumps prickled over the skin of her arms. Her worry became evident to Hosea. He too could read people, just like her. He could do it perhaps a little too well. His eyes shifted down to the ground, not wanting his gaze to cause her any alarm. “I know the country well, Miriam. There are only a few places around here that accommodate to your preferred climate.” She felt herself becoming flustered. She could not allow herself to let him see it so she looked over her shoulder towards the marshy waters. Her eyes searched for something in particular to focus on but her worries made the task difficult. Miriam’s silence spoke a thousand words. Clouds which encased her were gradually starting to part; not without challenge. Thunder flashed through those clouds. Before that mysterious haze could ever clear, the storm would have to present itself. Only then would the suffocation of her secrets could be lifted at last.Flickering his eyes to her hands, Hosea focused on the book she had been reading prior. He recognised the book cover and the intriguing engravings on the spine of it. “I’ve read that one.” The heat from her head dissipated once she turned her head back to her company. It took her a few seconds to realise what Hosea was referring to. The book offered her so much comfort, therefore a smile was always a response to its very memory.“It’s my favourite.”“I’ve noticed.” He stared down at the pages, a coy look present on his face. “You must know the book well if you’re reading it in Spanish.” As quickly as it went, the heat reappeared but this time across her cheeks. Dryly, she swallowed, hoping she could blame her reaction on the heat of the bayou. Hosea was not stupid. There was an aura of omniscience which surrounded him, nothing ever able to get past him. It was down to his caring nature. The want to help people do better and be their best selves. Honest and free.Unable to fight her nerves, Miriam went to stand and close her book but Hosea’s hand went to her shoulder to stop her. “No – no – no. Please.” His free hand offered her old seat back, inviting her to stay just a little longer. His tone of voice proved to her he meant no harm. She accepted, denying her own departure. Not being too knowledgeable on the language, Hosea referred to the page the book was currently open on. “Which part of the story are you on?”Breathing calmly through her nose, she settled back into the comfort of her book to accept its embrace. “When the Knight tells the Princess how he truly feels.” Her cheeks darkened yet somehow a smile persevered through to support her words. “You know, at the end?” Hosea nods.“Ah yes, yes.” He leant over her, scanning over the Spanish text. Despite not knowing the language, he believed he could find the part he wished to enlighten. “The part where he says… ah! Here it is…” His brows furrowed as he attempted to read the foreign words. “Tienes… mi… corazón.” Hosea lifted his head, looking at Miriam with a smile of delicate purity and warmth. “You have my heart.”“You have my heart.” Miriam repeated in acknowledgement. The Knight saying this to his Princess had always starstruck the young woman. She had wondered evermore what it would feel like to have someone confess their feelings like that. It was truly beautiful to her. To tell someone that they no longer own their heart because it had been claimed by their true love – it was words of poetry which came from the soul. To be so selfless to another. To love them so much you could trust them with something which could be broken so easily. One crunch of their hand could shatter the organ to shake their realm of reality. Such trust was so hard to come by. Although the very thought of having this much faith in someone was deemed as beautiful to her – it also scared her and to Miriam, there was something magical about that.Observing the peaceful look of wonder which portraited her face, Hosea’s expression softened as he knew that look all too well. A look of yearning which he once held for Bessie. “And what a powerful thing to say to someone.” His eyes looked up to the morning sky, watching a pair of larks which flew over in blissful glee. “It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from – anyone can feel that moment of power. Only if they allow themselves to.” He turned his head and his eyes locked with Miriam’s who was intrigued by what he was saying. “Love holds no judgement, Miriam. Some would say it is the most powerful force on earth.” His words rattled her yet her heart thumped against her chest in a way which lulled her; as if it was telling her to listen. She shook her head.“I don’t know what you’re trying to tell me, Mr Matthews.”“Miriam.” He called her name firmly to silence her. The both of them knew very well what he was insinuating. “It takes a lot to completely destroy love. Sure – someone’s past may cause a few cracks, or – what they once did could hurt – but if that person also trusts you with their heart, then there is nothing to be scared of.” His words moved her. She could not deny the truth in which he spoke yet ever the same, her fear of rejection held her back. Shaking her head, she tried to search his eyes for an answer.“But how would I know-”“You won’t know unless you tell them.” Their conversation felt almost hypothetical yet underneath the mystery, they both knew who and what they were talking about. His answer held a double meaning. To tell Javier how she really felt… it also meant telling him the truth. Just like Sadie had once told her.The thunder within her mind had stopped. Clouds were beginning to clear away and now, all that was left was her thoughts. Her head felt light, no longer heavy to the burden of what she must do. In a way; she felt ready.It was time.Seeing Hosea stand up from the fountain made Miriam mouth a quiet thank you to the older man. Hosea acknowledged this but being the man he was, he didn’t wish to pry and make her feel in debt. He brushed it away; another selfless act on his part. He had never once changed; always the man who wished to help others. Even as he began to walk away, he couldn’t help but pass by a comment to help encourage her that her past wasn’t as scary as it seemed.“I hear Annesburg is lovely this time of year. Especially a little further up North-East from it.” He looked over his shoulder at Miriam. But before she could react, she read his expression which soothed her. In quiet understanding, she knew by the way he spoke and the look he gave her that he wouldn’t utter a word to no one. He knew.A smile was left behind on her lips.
‘Thank you, Hosea…’
Night had claimed the land fast that day, much to the appreciation of the people. It had been the hottest day of the year thus far, so the night’s cooler air was welcomed with open arms. The clinch of coolness wasn’t the only thing which was welcomed that night.After Dutch, Arthur and John had met with Angelo Bronte, their return to camp had to be celebrated – Jack had come back safe and sound.Cheers and laughter encircled the campfire as Javier sung to the strumming of his guitar. A talent he possessed – not just the way he played or sang but his ability to bring his fellow camp members together. He was the glue which bound everyone together, almost completely unbreakable. How Miriam admired that part about him. Looking from afar, she watched him joyously express himself through the lyrics of his song, the others chiming into the chorus with theatrical delight. It made her heart swell to see how together everyone was. It was the happiest she had seen them all.She wished she was nearer to Javier but she held herself back, wanting him to be with his family. After all, it was a bond she never wanted him to break – only solidify further. Even throughout the day, she had kept her distance from him; ever since her conversation with Hosea. She wanted to figure out the right words to say to him; it had taken her what felt like an eternity to figure out, but she knew she had to do this. Not just for herself, but for him. Javier deserved to know the truth. He had been so good to her.He found her at her most vulnerable. Took her into the safety of the gang. Explored the Heartlands with her – he even took a bullet for her. Part of her really wanted to know how he felt about her before she could confess everything, however her need to be honest and give her heart to him was stronger. He had asked for her trust and that was what she wanted to give him. Her full, undying trust. No matter how frightening the thought of it was.She loved him.The very thought made her heart bubble in her chest like lava waiting to erupt. In the past she tried to push those feelings aside, in fear of the hurt it may cause, but now it invaded her entirely. It was undeniable and inescapable. The chains which encased her had finally rotted enough to the point she could finally break free. All she needed to do was try. And Javier deserved that at the very least.Leaving the coolness of the night’s air, Miriam retreated back inside the walls of the house which stood strong in the middle of camp. Closing the door behind her, she leant against the wood to take slow, deep breaths. She knew the moment was close. Tauntingly close. Even now she struggled to think of a strong opening line to start this chaotic and somewhat dangerous confession. Knowing the gist of the conversation was easy, but as for what to exactly say – this was unclear. Trying her best to snap out it, Miriam walked through the hallway and into one of the rooms where a mirror hung on the wall. Cautiously she approached it, as if one wrong step could cause it to fall to the ground. That was the last thing she needed – seven years of bad luck. A superstition she most definitely believed in, perhaps even more so after Molly’s pocket mirror broke. Since then, it seemed the poor woman had never gotten a break. She would sometimes see Molly on the outskirts of camp, looking out into the wilderness, mumbling incoherent things about Dutch. It broke Miriam’s heart to see her this way. She had attempted to talk things out with Molly, but she pushed the woman away. She did not want anyone’s company other than Dutch’s; which was something he could not give her.Looking into the mirror, Miriam’s reflection shone back at her through distorted cracks. The cracks were like veins which jaggedly etched their way along the centre to the corners of the frame. Subconsciously, she brought a hand to her hair, stroking down the fly aways. How humbled she felt about her appearance. Javier was strikingly handsome to look at, yet she felt the complete opposite about herself. She found it comical the idea of Javier finding her as attractive as she found him. In her irrational mind, there was just no way. She sighed, hopelessly. Yet her eyes wandered to the dress she was wearing.After all this time, she had finally finished weaving together the dress she started making back in Horseshoe Overlook. Despite Javier’s kindness in buying her the dresses back in Strawberry, Miriam felt it a waste to abandon her project. The dress was made from silky, scarlet fabric which was made to fit her exact measurements. It held no long sleeves but her shoulders were crowned with the smallest black ruffles. The neck line had shaped a most magnificent V-shape which complimented her décolletage. Following the waist line down, the ruche of the skirt had been pinned up to create a gothic-style waterfall effect on the sides and through the opening of the outer skirt, black lace fell to the ground as the underskirt. The dress created a feeling of pride which was new to the young woman. She wanted this to be the dress. The dress she would confess to Javier in. It made her feel empowered yet vulnerable and that was something she felt fascinated by.“My, my. Don’t you look pretty in that getup.” A chill ran down her spine, recognising that voice. Miriam whipped her head over her shoulder, fast enough to cause a couple strands of locks to fall from her clipped-up hair. Micah stood in the doorway, leaning lazily against the wooden frame. He shifted his weight so he now stood straight, ready to approach. “Who’re you getting’ dolled up for, I wonder…” Not wanting to give him the time of day, she stayed silent. She knew all too well that people like him craved responses. Tauntingly, he stepped towards her which immediately caused Miriam to fully turn to face him to stand her ground. Much like the time back in the cabin, where she was cornered by the O’Driscolls.The clicks of Micah’s boots echoed through the room like the sound of a ticking clock. Her shoulders tensed but never once did she break eye contact from him. He stopped walking once he was a couple metres away from her, wanting her to fall into a false sense of safety. One thing was certain – being alone in a room with Micah Bell was never something safe and she was smart enough to know this.A snicker trickled past his lips, holding out his hands to gesture inwardly to himself. “Is this all for me?” A look of disgust shadowed over Miriam’s face. If only a look could really kill someone, he would be nothing more than a corpse before her. Clenching her jaw, Miriam remained composed before the serpent, still having no intention of giving in to his sick game. Micah tilted his head with his mouth slightly agape, soaking in her defensive state. That scowl she held for him… he found it utterly delicious. “Let’s take a good look at you…”Before she could react, his hand grasped her jaw, the tips of his fingers pinching into the skin of her cheeks. In defiance she tried to shake herself from his grip by snapping her head to the side but he only squeezed her face tighter to make her heel. Not wanting to be permanently injured by his hand, she stilled, keeping her gaze away. His breathing was heavy, like he was fighting for crystal clear air. The smell of her was almost too intoxicating for him to handle. His eyes scanned over her features, looking at the shade of her glossy lips to the colour of her eyes and sighing in bliss when she would batt those pretty lashes which each blink. The grip of his hand loosened just slightly so he could angle his thumb up towards her waterline where black kohl had been carefully pencilled across. Wanting to taint the remarkable portrait before him, his thumb brushed across the bottom of her eye to smear the black eyeliner down past her outer corners. He snickered at the art he had just created.Now she looked fragile – as though she had been crying.“Ain’t you just… pretty.” He licked the top of his lip, his warm breath coming through his nose like a bull in heat. “Nasty little thing, dressin’ up for ol’ Micah…” His thumb went back to the start of her waterline to once again follow along, but this time, he dragged his digit downwards once he reached the middle. A smoky smear fell to the apple of her cheek. His thumb was rough and he had pressed hard, causing a streak of faint redness to appear behind the ashy smears. How appetising she looked like this. Like a forbidden fruit he so desperately wanted to take a bite from. Being so close to her, a couple strings of breathy laughter escaped him. He found it funny. The joke of it all; how easy it would be to take her right now whilst everyone was occupied outside.The fantasy of her crying for help whilst all the other gang members would be nonchalantly celebrating, not able to hear her pleas at all. It was the perfect opportunity. Quickly, his mind pieced together a delectable scenario. He’d smash the back of her head against the mirror, just so show her how much fun he can be. Then he’d throw her like a little dolly onto the cold wooden floor before taking her from behind. Oh, how the sounds of her dress being ripped apart would stiffen his cock. He would be entertained for a long while…His smirk disappeared at his next intruding thought. ‘Unless he interferes…’ Anger flashed across Micah’s face which resulted in his hand clasping round her jaw again and this time, forcing her to look at him. “Or is this all for that fucking greaser, hm?” Now it was Miriam’s turn to see red. Without even a second thought, she pursed her lips before releasing them to spit into Micah’s face. The action was so sudden it took him a back, making him let go of her in the process. She took her chance to escape and bolted through the doorway and towards the grand doors which would lead her outside. He didn’t attempt to chase after her, instead using his preferred tactic to hunt his prey – threats.“If you don’t come back here… I’ll fucking destroy your world. I know who you are.” Gritting his teeth, he walked towards the doorframe once he wiped the spit from his eyes. “And what you did.” He stopped once he was back in the doorway. This time he had his fists held tightly in a ball and his posture was hunch over, as if ready to charge at her. “If you walk out that door, I’ll tell your little greaser everything.” She could no longer ignore what he had to say. It enraged her the way he spoke about Javier like he was some form of weapon to be used against her, calling him those horrible derogatory names. Silence was no longer an option.Snapping her head over her shoulder, she hissed her words. “You won’t have chance. I’ll be telling him tonight.” Her surge of confidence caught Micah off guard. She had a mean bite to her and it replaced his anger with excitement.“Oh, really now?” For the last time, she turned around to fully face him.“Yes. You have no power over me, Micah.” It sent chills over his body the way she snarled out his name. If he played his cards right, he could still make the world around her crumble. Micah had always had a sick desire to see beauty decay. It was the most natural form of art to him.Micah held his hands up, as if to surrender. “Oh, ho. You got me there, sweetheart…” His tone of voice leered over her, spookily, like he knew something she did not. “I’m just thinking about that Mexican’s wellbeing is all.” Her eyebrows knitted closer together, confused by his change of heart. He smirked, knowing his new tactic was working. He took a step towards her, his hands still raised in sweet surrender. “It would be such a… shame… to see him – burdened with such knowledge.” Now he took a couple more steps closer, almost halfway across the landing. Slowly, Miriam’s eyebrows softened as though she could see her victory being taken away before her very eyes.“… a burden?” Micah stopped himself from grinning. ‘Jackpot.’ He thought to himself. He knew very well which direction to take this conversation.“Of course. I mean, when I discovered what you were, well… I was shocked. And that’s puttin’ it lightly- I mean…” Micah lowered his hands. His tone changed. “… ya did some real nasty things after all.” The young woman flinched at his words. “What you did… oof-” The blonde dropped his head momentarily, only to raise it slowly to look at her through his messy strands of hair which cascaded over his brows. “No normal person could ever look at ya the same way ever again.” Her blood turned cold at the horrifying thought. It felt unbearable, the idea of Javier shunning her away after discovering her past. She felt her eyes begin to sting with tears but she refused to let them fall, especially in front of Micah. Such a sight could not slip past Micah. Those tears which threatened to spill only fuelled him further. His hands hovered over her shoulders but he didn’t dare to touch.“Sweetheart… I know it’s hard.” He didn’t have the faintest idea. “Ya just gotta understand… that greaser had his family and friends drop like flies, one by one. Murdered in front of him… so…” Micah tauntingly tilted his head side to side, as though he was weighing the options of what to say. “… it only makes sense he wouldn’t react well to what ya did. He’d hate you.” Her blood felt as though it were ice. For a moment, it felt impossible for her to breathe. Micah’s words made perfect sense. She convinced herself then and there that she had gaslighted herself into thinking that everything would be okay. Of course, there was no way Javier would be able to look past the things she did.Not wanting to spend another second in Micah’s presence, she went to open the door but Micah’s hand held onto her wrist to pause her action. “Oi.” He growled, bringing her close into his chest. The dark-haired beauty frowned, still fighting the sting of her eyes. He lifted his hand and instead of grabbing her jaw again like last time, he curled his index finger and softly petted it over her cheek. “Don’t ya worry, doll. Ol’ Micah will be here to pick up the pieces.” He leant close to her face, his lips just a couple centimetres away from her own. “If ya tell him.” And just like that, he released her and she immediately ran out, slamming the doors in his face.Her feet pattered down the steps and across the grass until she could find shelter under the gazebo, just a little away from the camp’s celebrations. She tried to calm her breathing although not a sound of it could be heard due to the rambunctious singing from both Uncle and Pearson. Even Arthur could be heard trying to join in, carefully trying to not slur his words due to the amount of whiskey he had consumed.Looking to her hands, the young woman realised the shake that now rocked them uncontrollably. Her ears burned hot; her throat too dry to be able to swallow. Attempting to steady herself, Miriam’s hands rested on the pale wood of the banister and sank her head low to calm her rhythm of breaths once she wiped away her ruined eyeliner.She knew Micah was not to be trusted; his words were a sorcery of evil. Malice was something he thrived to express. He was like a disease, persisting to take over and destroy something once good from the inside out. Yet those very words he spoke only awakened Miriam’s once buried paranoia. Just as she had at last calmed herself into thinking her past could not break the bond she shared with Javier, a threat loomed in its grand return to make her back down. Deep down, she still wanted to tell Javier the truth. Uneasiness plagued her at the scenario.What if…What if Micah spoke honesty, no matter how hurtful it came out? Would it be a burden for Javier? Would he…‘Would he hate me?’ She bit the inside of her cheek; the taste of iron spilling in slow droplets down her throat. Would he or wouldn’t he. A riddle she could not solve. It was a gamble. A leap of faith.Being so lost in her troubled thoughts, she had barely noticed the familiar presence behind her whose hands rested on the plumps of her hips. “Hola, hermosa ángel.” Regardless of her agonising thoughts, Miriam couldn’t help but melt under his touch. She breathed out his name, savouring it as though it was the last time she would ever be able to say it.His hands stroked her hips a couple times, like he was soothing her for something he wasn’t quite aware of in that moment. With a feather-like touch, Javier’s hands slid over the peaks of her hips to take their place over her belly. The feeling was welcomed for it offered a warmth she did not mind faltering to. His chin rested over her shoulder which allowed Miriam to smell the whiskey and cigarettes that came from his long breaths. It was a smell she found appetizing and often salivated for during steamy exchanges.“I haven’t seen you all day…” He mumbled, now turning into her neck to smell the gorgeously scented perfume which he found suited her and only her. A scent of lavender and powdery notes. Miriam pressed her back against his chest to allow him to fully hold her. His eyes were shut with the lightest of smiles, appreciating the tender fragment of time that stood still for their sake. A snapshot of gentle peace.“I was… lost in thought, today.” He hummed at her response, finding it an acceptable answer for the time being. The tips of her fingers lightly traced over the knuckles of his hands. Even now, her thoughts troubled her deeply – yet his aura soothed her, preventing her from breaking down to the corruption Micah had caused. “I- My mind has been all over the place. I’m sorry.” A low rumble came from Javier’s throat in an understanding chuckle.“Mine too.” His hands snaked past one another, tightening his embrace. His cheek pressed against the length of Miriam’s neck where his lips dusted across her skin in a sweet whisper. “I can’t get you off my mind, mi amor.” His lips and facial hair tickled her skin, causing her to momentarily break away from her intrusive thoughts in soft laughter.“You’ve been drinking.” Turning her head to try and look at his expression, she could see his cheeks were slightly glazed with a pigment of rosiness. His eyes held a mist of heavenly delight, finding all things around him pleasant. Not denying her words, he raised the depths of his focus by looking into her dark hazel eyes.“I speak only the truth.” His eyes closed lazily to fall into a blissful realm, allowing his lips to dance across her jawline and then the corner of her neck, underneath her ear. “Mi amor…” He whispered this line over and over again with each feathery kiss. Goosebumps responded back to him, giving in to the enchantment he cast over her. She held onto his arms to keep her from stumbling, bending at the knees as though she was becoming limp like a doll held by its owner. “Look at me.”Javier loosened his hold on her so she could eventually turn around to face him. There were things he wanted to tell her which had been occupying him all throughout the day. Perhaps longer. Delving into the wondrous pools of her iris, he felt his chest seize for a brief moment. It amazed him how this woman standing before him had such a hold over his mind, body and feelings. Never in his twenty-six years of being on this earth had he felt this way before. It was foreign, shrouded in mystery; nonetheless a hold he never wanted to let go.“Listen.” Javier stepped back from her, tilting his head down to the ground and raising his hands in front of him as though halting any attempt to interrupt him. “I’ve been thinking- I’ve been thinking, a lot… and…” He lifted his head and in doing so he placed his hands on his hips before rapidly flickering his thumb over the tip of his nose to brush off the last bits of nerves that had held him back before now. “You and I- We… I think…” He stopped himself.The way she looked at him. It captivated him. She without a doubt took his breath away; without even trying. Her mere existence was enough to shake the ever-winding staircase of his reality. She had always captivated him. Ever since he first looked at her within that cabin. A short exhale of realisation escaped him.“I think we’re good together.” He said it so matter of a fact, that his awkwardness had successfully been disguised by his liquid courage.Miriam’s eyes became wide with surprise, not expecting him to say such things. She kept quiet, unable to find the right words to say. Javier stroked the back of his neck, not knowing how he made it this far. However, he understood that he had to finish what he had started. “I mean, only if you want that too.” Now the Mexican found himself second guessing how he approached his words. He wanted to continue to plead his case because of course, she was someone whom he wanted to fight for. “Look-” He stepped towards her; his hands now being held out to gesture with each word that needed visual guidance. “What I mean to say is- I don’t care about what you did, who you are or where you came from. None of that matters.” Miriam’s eyebrows furrowed upwards, her mouth becoming agape – not believing what he was saying. Javier’s hand held onto hers. His fingers squeezed tight to the following words. “I want you. Only you.” With his free hand, he gently placed his palm over her heated cheek. “Just as you are.” The words he uttered cut through her like a welcomed wound. A wound which hurt but distracted her from her anxious thoughts. He made her heart bleed with sweet sorrow.She wanted him too. To Miriam, Javier deserved the world and more.Pursing her lips together, Miriam tightly closed her eyes to lean into the hand which held her cheek. He was so warm, like the water of a hot spring steaming against ice cold skin. “Javier…” Bringing her hand to his own, she pulled it down from her cheek. “I’m not the woman you think I am…” A pause of hesitancy followed before she let go of his hands to hold her own. Javier looked at her with hurt in his eyes, as though he had been shot through his chest. It pained her to do this, but the taunt of Micah’s words could not allow her to let her walls fall apart. She allowed him to have her heart, but she could not do the same for him. She feared so much that his heart would die by her tainted touch. Her bottom lip quivered before she looked at him with tearful eyes. She could barely choke out her words. “But I wish I was. I truly do.”Javier averted his eyes from her. For the first time, he did not know what to do. All he could do was look at to her, almost in disbelief. With all his strength, he set his hurt aside and tried to reach through to her. “Miriam…” He made a promise to himself. “Eres tan estupida…” (“You’re so stupid…”)A promise that he would fight for her.Both of Javier’s hands held onto her face to bring her back to this dimension. “¿Cuántas veces tengo que decírtelo?” (“How many times do I have to tell you?”) Her watery eyes blurred her vision yet she could still see the intense look of truth he emitted. “I don’t care.” A smile returned to his face, his sharp gaze softening. “I don’t care, Miriam.” He frowned yet his smile remained. “Don’t you remember?” Before she could respond to his question, Javier pulled on her hand so she would follow him.They left the shelter of the gazebo, walking just outside of Shady Belle by the water yet remained concealed by the trees and greenery. They couldn’t wander too far due to the main road only being just up ahead. Once Javier stopped, he pointed up to the night sky. The galaxy of stars twinkled back in response, shining through the grey clouds which surrounded the moon. “You remember, don’t you?”The organ within her chest tightened at the memory of those beautiful words. Without saying anything, she nodded. But he wanted more. He wanted her to fight back – to succumb to the feelings they both could not deny. “Then say them.” Her eyes tightly closed, her lips pursing back together.
She could not bring herself to say those words.
Javier held onto her waist, bringing her towards him so their hips met one another. “Say them to me, mi amor.” Their foreheads touched, his eyes trying to find hers through her thick lashes – still her irises were averted from his.
He deserved the truth.
His fingers tightened on her waist. His whispers became more soaked with passion. “I need to know.”
And the truth is what she wished to give.
“Javier… Tienes mi corazón.” Those words ripped through him like a rainfall of bullets. He pulled his head back, looking at her with shock. At last, he could see her alluring cocoa eyes. Her hand went to her chest as if to soothe the pain and ache she felt there. “Tienes mi corazón, Javier.” Her tears spilt down her cheeks, uncontrollably. Her walls had fallen to dust thanks to him. She felt exposed and vulnerable. And she was so grateful. Somehow her revelation made her feel lifted; unafraid. “And it will always be yours.”No longer did a barrier stand between the two thus the only thing to be done was to fall into each other’s reality. He claimed her lips with his own, not caring that it sucked the air from her. He could not help himself after she had told him such euphoric words. Never did he think he would hear her say those words to him, especially in his language. Those three words spoke a million tales, matching up to each star that dotted the galactic sky. His reaction made Miriam cry more, the lump in her throat becoming so painful she could barely breathe. To others it would seem as though she was in pain. Forlorn and distressed. But the two of them knew that it was an articulation of happiness and that was all that mattered.Miriam fought for air but was unable to win due to Javier’s hand holding onto the back of her head, pushing her further against his mouth. His tongue tangled around hers, barely allowing room for her to inhale. A meagre jolt of panic naturally took over her yet her own body betrayed her, keeping her pinned into his strong embrace. Colourful spots sparkled behind her closed eyes, signalling her impending downfall. She murmured his name against his mouth, revealing her desperation.Not wanting her to pass out, just yet, he pulled his lips from her and watched the saliva slip over the centre of her bottom lip. Perilously she gasped out for air but was immediately silenced by his lips. She squirmed in ecstatic delight. The very thought of seeing stars just by him kissing her sent waves of paradise towards her core. She trusted this man to do whatever he wanted, knowing he never would have an inkling if ill malice. Her hands ran through his hair, unconsciously pulling away the band which held his hair back. His velvet ebony locks touched his shoulders where his blue waistcoat hugged against the white fabric of his blouse.“Tienes mi corazón…” She whispered against his lips, repeating those words he found so beautiful. His hand clenched, grabbing a fistful of her hair. She mewled in contentment at the rough action.“Mierda…” He grumbled, the tightening feeling of jeans around his groin which became uncomfortable all too quickly. The way she said those words, it was driving him fucking crazy. Pulling the clip that held her hair back, her mermaid-like waves fell past her shoulders like unravelled silk. All those feelings which held him back before, those chains no longer claimed him. Instead, he was finally free to do as he desired. No restraints or second thoughts. Only what felt right to both himself and her.Javier’s hands grabbed Miriam’s ass, crunching together the carefully woven fabric she had seamed and lifted her without warning. Instinctively, her legs wrapped around his waist where her bare pussy caught his jeans just right, the tent of the fabric rubbing against her clit. The skirt of her dress covered the sight, but underneath, it was a vision to behold – one Javier could feel. The roughness of his jeans caused a friction which made her hips buck involuntarily. The sharp sparks of pleasure which flew through her like flashes of lightning made Miriam throw her head back, leaning her weight away from him so her hips had no choice but to force themselves harder against his concealed yet prominent cock. It didn’t take long for her slick to begin coating his jeans, as if her pussy was begging skin on skin contact. Without shame, Miriam bobbed her hips up and down the tiniest amount to rub her clit over the point of his jeans. Due to the ridged nature of his jeans, her clit became instantly swollen, enjoying the friction more than she imagined she would. Her wetness rapidly dampened the fabric and with aid was soaked further by his leaking tip. The thought of his precum seeping through to invade her pussy made her eyes roll back to see the stars.The feeling of her hips rocking against his erection made Javier open his mouth to invite in the cool air in hopes it would help him re-centre himself – to stop him from fucking her so furiously that she would surely lose consciousness. Yet he reminded himself that all restraints were to be forgotten about. Just for this night at least. He wrapped an arm around her upper back and knelt down to the ground to place her on the grass, all the while keeping their hips connected like this. Her hips were raised, angled upwards over his thighs and he kept her like this so he could unzip his jeans to pull out his aching cock. In doing so, his fingers brushed over the area of his pants where their liquids seeped through. With the tip of his middle finger and thumb, he brought them up to his face and rubbed the slick together before retracting his middle finger away to watch the string of clear fluid stretch.“Mi amor… if you keep doing things like this, I won’t be able to stop myself.” Through her flushed pants, she quizzed her lover.“Stop yourself from what?” Innocently she blinked which caused Javier to arch over her, pressing his leaking head inside of her without warning. Not giving her a single chance to adjust, Miriam’s head fell back so her forehead was inches away from meeting the grass. Keeping her hips angled up towards the sky, Javier pressed a kiss to her exposed throat, growling against her skin.“Fucking you until you’re full of my cum, mi amor.” The walls of her pussy clenched hard around the tip of his cock, milking him in response to his words. The two of them gasped in symmetry at the rapturous feeling. The tightness of her heat made it difficult to sheathe himself fully inside but once he did, he hung his head low between his shoulders, panting. His fingers dug into the earth to ground himself whilst Miriam tried her best not to make any sudden movements, still recovering from the brief moment of sheer bliss.Soon, a laughter that was barely audible came from Javier. He lifted his head, looking through the messy strands of his hair to address his love. “You like the idea of that, hm?” With eagerness in her movements, she nodded her head to him; the memory of him almost coming inside her dancing around rent free in her head. She could still remember how hot the heat of his cum felt inside, even if it was only a drop. Her pussy spasmed again, wishing to be filled this time instead of it being wasted on her lower abdomen. He grunted, pulling his cock back until he was almost fully free from her.Keeping the tip of his cock lined at her entrance, Javier pulled her thighs up and folded them back so her knees came to a beautiful bend. Her shoes slipped off her feet so her heels pressed into the rounds of her ass. He let go of her plump skin, watching her dress skirt pool around her chest – the sight of her pulsing pussy now on full view. That and her big doe eyes all tearful from sinful want, were a picture of perfection to the Mexican rebel. His hands traced over her knees, pushing them further apart before planting a kiss to one of them. He raised himself a little higher on his knees to get his angle right and once he was there, he slammed his cock deep and hard into her pussy; reaching depths Miriam didn’t even know was possible. The earth surrounding Miriam’s head sank lower, being pressed with great force by the back of her skull. A noise had left her mouth she didn’t even know could ever be recreated even if she tried. That very noise made her lover see red and repeated the violent snap of his hips over and over, earning a unique and satisfying moan from her each time.The head of his cock abused her insides, forcing her heat to overflow with more of her slick in a pathetic attempt to soothe the overstimulation which was being invoked. Her head was dizzy, unable to think rationally whilst he pounded into her pussy like she was just some tight hole for him to let his frustrations out on. “Oh my God… Javier! Javier!” Her sanity was long gone, no care being present to fear what others might hear. She felt his hands pull harder on her knees, bringing her hips impossibly closer to his own; Miriam became a babbling mess. He hit depths within her that shot fiery sparks of gunpowder through her core all the way to her head. Her toes curled, bracing herself for his ruthlessness that would undoubtedly continue.Already, her pussy squeezed his cock, ready to deliver its final chokehold. Javier placed an elbow and hand beside her head whilst the other rested in the same manner but above her head. Not once did his unforgiving thrusts change in pace. “Mi amor- Ah! Miriam…” His voice was quiet through the loudness of his grunts, yet as though the elements of nature respected their moment of union, Miriam heard him clear as day. “Te amo.”
‘Those words…’
She hiccupped, feeling the swell of her heart become unbearable. Javier kissed her forehead. “Te amo… te amo…” He never stopped saying those words. With every thrust, every pant and groan, he cooed those words to her. He would say it as many times as it took for her to finally understand. She felt her head ache, still unable to stop herself from crying. All she could do was place her hand on his cheek and kiss the corner of his mouth.Even then, he still did not stop.‘He loves me…’ The happiest smile she had ever conjured in her entire lifetime graced her features. ‘He really loves me…’Being close to his release, Javier shuddered, his head falling lower to try and stop himself. He could feel she was close too. She could tell by his silence he was trying hard not to give in, selflessly wanting her to come before he did – yet each time it risked him coming inside. Breaking his concentration, Miriam brought her lips to his ear, begging him in a sultry voice.“Please, come inside-ah! Javier! Please…” Miriam raised both her shoulders in a euphoric high, knighting each side of his face as his forehead now came into contact with the bottom of her throat. His nails scratched hard at the dirt, whilst her own snaked under his arms and latched onto his shoulder blades. Her nails pierced in through the fabric of his waistcoat, not realising she was in fact drawing blood. Even Javier couldn’t feel it, due to the feeling of his cock pulsating inside her becoming overwhelming. “Please…” She lowered the volume of her voice but kept a higher pitch than normal – something she naturally did when she wanted something bad. “Javier… I want you to come inside me. Make me yours.”Like a cryptic code being cracked, it unlocked the shackles which bound him. A second wind of energy eloped through his body like an untameable hurricane. The rhythm of his hips became faster, more ruthless with no remanets of gentleness. He wanted nothing more in that moment than for her wishes to be granted. And for his own – to have her as his – whole and complete. Sweat glossed down the muscles of his back, sticking to his garments which caused an imaginary suffocation as his climax overcame him, spurting his hot cum inside her weeping pussy. He pressed his hips hard into her and stayed like that, as if his only goal was to make sure her womb became full of his fertile seed. Upon the first contact of his cum, her pussy clenched and pulsed around his length, milking each and every drop as Miriam experienced her own ascension. His cum felt excruciatingly hot but it only heightened her senses and made her journey to paradise all the more heavenly.The feeling of her taking all of him so receptively was something he cursed himself for not experiencing sooner. He didn’t want the moment to end – even during the peak of his high, he slipped his hand between her thighs to rub his thumb over her clit in circles. The elation she felt from his unexpected action made Miriam snap her hips into his, forcing his cock deeper creating more room for his cum to splurge through. The overstimulation made the young woman shake violently, her pussy now refusing to release her hold on his cock. Javier groaned loud into her throat, the noise emanating from deep within.Finally, with the last few rocks of his hips, he pulled his cock from inside her, the spoils of his climax spilling out with the friction of his length. Once he had fully unsheathed himself, due to her hips being pointed at a high angle, any droplets of cum which surrounded the circumference of her heat fell back inside. The sight of her cum-filled pussy made Javier’s cock twitch, threatening to become hard again. Her puffy cunt pulsed, drinking back every last drop until it was deep inside her warm cavern.Attempting to wipe away her tears, the mundane fidgeting caught Javier’s attention, him only now realising just how badly she had been crying. Once he tucked himself away, he leant over her to brush his thumb over her watery cheeks.“Hey…” He cooed. He thought her tears were a product of their love-making but seeing her continue spill them made the man feel genuine concern. A flash of hurt sparkled across his coffee-coloured eyes as she scrunched her nose and tried her best to wipe away anymore tears that were left behind. “Did I hurt you?” A crackle of laughter bubbled past her lips, shaking her head to him.“No.”“Then why are you crying?” That wide, close-eyed smile returned once more and this time he was there to witness her expression of joy.“I’m… I’m just so happy.” A charming look graced Javier’s features.“Yeah?” Miriam nodded, humming her confirmation. He closed his eyes in contentment. “Me too, mi amor.” Javier lifted her own delicate hand towards his face. With a look of faraway dreams, he placed the softest of kisses against her fingers. To finally hear her speak such honeyed words to him and he in return at long last came to terms with his deep-rooted feelings he held for her – the shadows within his mind felt less dark than before. His demons had been blinded by her luminescent light.He couldn’t help but consider if she was an angel sent by God. Or a Saint sent to guide him through the darkness that threatened to take over.Whoever she was, or whomever had sent her, he knew he had to appreciate every waking second with her. Time threatened all beings.He vowed silently, on that warm summer’s night, that he would devote himself to her and strive for a life where they could be free.Together.