Work Text
Near Black Hills, South Dakota
Snow fell quick and hard as the orange car trundled its way up the steep hill. Inside sat six cold passengers, their trusty retriever asleep in the boot of the car, squished uncomfortably between hastily packed luggage.
“This’ll never work.” A woman with a thick accent spoke up, crossing her arms and turning away from the others.
Abigail sighed, cradling Jack in her arms and stroking Isaac's hair softly. Her efforts of soothing them both were failing as they all shuddered and shivered, asking where they were going whenever there was a moment of silence.
“I don’t think we’ll be too much longer Abigail.” The older man spoke up, closing his hands around his mouth, his heavy breathing masked by the falling snow. The road started to disappear from underneath them, the only sign guiding them forward being the beat up truck that trailed ahead of them, carving a way through the dangerous terrain.
Moments felt like hours as the group fought for heat , cold air seeping through the rickety frame of the vehicle.
“You ok there Eliza?” The old man asked, looking over at the driver sympathetically. She kept her eyes on the road, shivering beneath the large blue jacket she was wearing. She rubbed her eyes with the sleeve before responding.
“I’m worried, Hosea.” She whispered. The old man frowned, rubbing her shoulder. “When are we going to stop? These boys are cold and you-”
“Don’t you worry about me young lady. I’ll be just fine.” Hosea chuckled, his laugh turning to a rough cough. “We just have to keep a little faith right?” He smiled slightly before turning to stare out the window.
Eliza shifted in her seat, adjusting the rear view mirror to check on the passengers in the back, Abigail sat shivering, her hands blue in the dim light as she stroked Isaac’s back. Her eyes were closing, her breath slowing as it flew away from her in plumes. Jack and Isaac were falling asleep too, the swaying of the car as it drove around the bends lulling them to dream land. Eliza smiled, adjusting her focus back to the front window and catching sight of a pair of tail lights. She knew it wasn’t Arthur, but secretly, for a moment, she hoped it was. She had wanted to speed up and see the back of his rusty pickup, the familiar cloud of cigarette smoke spilling from the driver window. But it never came. She wasn’t sure where he was, or John, or Dutch or anyone for that matter.
- Arthur had been hiking in the snow for the best part of an hour, shivering in his suit jacket and cursing his 'fancy boy' shoes for the blisters they gave him. Even the regularly unbothered Mac and trusty Javier seemed to be struggling against the cold. There were no signs of footprints or any tracks that could lead them to the lost men, but they trudged on into the hills regardless."Hey, over here!" Mac shouted, beckoning for Javier and Arthur to follow. They waded their way through the snow, spotting the blood splatter against the white. Arthur shook his head, wrapping himself up further in his flimsy suit jacket. "Ah Hell." Arthur muttered, taking the lead as he followed the blood trail, his hands shaking against the cold metal of his revolver. "Mac, stay back for now." "He's my brother." Mac responded, pushing his way to the front and into a small cave. Getting out of the wind and snow made the three men let out a sigh of relief, dusting themselves off and taking out their lighters to see. The cave was empty, and darker than black. There were no signs of any life except for the blood on the floor. Arthur bent down, putting his hand to the blood and rubbing it between his fingers. It stained his fingers red and he let out a deep breath. "Someone's here, this is fresh." He said, taking the lead deeper into the cave. "Keep an eye out." He coughed, holding his lighter to the floor for more tracks, but none came. - "Oh God, what the hell just happened." Karen yelled, her hands putting pressure on Jenny's wound. Mary-Beth had ripped up whatever fabric they could find to make dressings and had wrapped Jenny's stomach in them, the blood spilling through immediately, making her efforts pointless. She sobbed into her hands at the sight, rubbing the blood onto Jenny's t-shirt. Tilly held Jenny softly in her lap, keeping her as still as possible as they were thrown around in the back of Charles' van. Jenny gargled and spluttered as they did so, crying loudly. "What's going on?" Charles shouts back to them. "That poor girl ain't making it." Grimshaw mutters sadly, rubbing her arms. "Just focus on the road damn you." "He's trying, Susan." Pearson said softly, looking behind him to the sorry sight of the girls. "Ain't hard enough." She spat back, crossing her arms and staring blankly out the window. - "Momma are we there yet?" Isaacs voice trembled, his face pale as snow."Nearly honey-pie, nearly." Eliza comforted him, taking one hand off the wheel to hold his hand. Hosea had fallen asleep, he had turned his suit jacket around like a blanket over his chest, resting his head on the window. Abigail had awoken not too long ago, hugging Jack and Isaac into her sides. Sulking on her right, Molly O'Shea sat wide awake. Eliza looked out the window, seeing a pair of red tail lights at the side of the road. She approached cautiously before noticing it was Charles’ van. “Thank the lord.” She whispered, pulling the beat up orange beetle to the back of the van. -
Charles pulled a sheet over Jenny’s body, hiking her up onto his shoulder and lowering her into the storage space under the bed. Grimshaw helped, manoeuvring her legs in and carefully closing the door.
Mary-Beth was curled up in the back, her face in a pillow while Tilly stroked her hair. Karen smoked a cigarette sitting on the opposite side of the bed.
"Nothin' we coulda done." Grimshaw sighed, placing a hand on Charles' shoulder.
"We will bury her when it's safe, to honour her." Charles responded, shutting the doors of the van.
When Eliza pulled up Charles let a small smile grow on his face, walking up the her door as she rolled down the window. "Whats happenin'?" She asked, her brows furrowed."It's Jenny. She's passed." Charles said sadly, reaching for a cigarette in his back pocket. "Oh dear lord." Abigail said from the backseat, tears rolling down her cheeks."Where is she?" Eliza asked, putting on the handbrake. "I put her in my storage compartment, don't want the girls sittin' next to her body for the rest of the journey." Charles responded, taking a drag of his cigarette and blowing the smoke away from Eliza. "What are we doing now?" Eliza asked, burying her hands in her lap. "We have to find somewhere to stay, it's getting colder by the second." Charles said, looking into the back of the car at the boys. "Do you know of anywhere nearby?" "We're close now, there's two motels, across the road from one-another.""No point hangin' out in the cold. Let's get a move on." Grimshaw spoke up, making her way back to the front of the camper."She's right, we won't survive another hour in this cold." - The curled up figure at the end of the narrow cave felt horribly familiar, causing Mac to gag and look away upon catching sight of it. A pool of blood lay beneath the body, slowly trickling further towards Arthur’s foot. “Dear God.” Javier sighed, putting a hand on Mac’s back. Mac stayed silent, walking back into the taller region of the cave. Arthur made his way forward, approaching the body with a gentle hand. He crouched down, placing his hand on Davey’s neck. Ice cold skin made his blood run cold and he let out a disappointed sigh. “I’m sorry, Davey.” He whispered, rolling the man onto his back and searching his pockets. His inner jacket pocket contained only an engraved lighter and a single cigarette. Arthur pulled them out and placed them behind him on the floor as though declaring his intentions as innocent to the other men. He continued his search, catching a glimpse of a small note falling from Davey’s hand. “That’s all I found.” Arthur said as he turned away from the body. “Take it, take it all.” Mac replied, coughing to mask the tinge of hurt in his voice. “He’d want you to have it.” Arthur and Javier glanced at one another, looking backwards to the body and then to Mac. “Get his jacket Arthur. You’re gonna freeze out ‘ere.” Javier said softly, lifting his lighter out to show Arthur the way. “I don’t know-”“We need to go. Marston might still be out there.” Mac barked, making his way to the cave entrance.
Arthur grabbed Davey’s tan jacket and flannel, putting them on and contemplating taking his boots. He grumbled to himself, slipping them off of Davey’s feet and onto his.
“Ah hell.” He murmured, covering Davey’s head with his suit jacket and making his way out of the cave.
-
The motel car park was mostly empty and Eliza let out a loud sigh as she killed the engine of the car. Sitting for a moment to take in the silence before getting out, wary to not awake her passengers.
She walked around to the back of the car, letting Copper out and giving him a kiss on the head. He lapped at her hand, nuzzling into it and yawning loudly. She smiled, the first time in hours.
Charles walked out of the lobby and smiled at her, waggling multiple sets of keys.
“How did you afford all that?” She asked, taking a set of keys from him.
“I only paid for the night.” He replied, patting his back pocket where his wallet lay.
“Thank you, Charles.” She smiled softly, placing her hand on his arm before quickly slipping it off.
-
The group of men slipped out of the cave, resuming their agonising trudge across the harsh snowy landscape. Arthur wasn’t feeling the cold as much as he was five minutes ago, but the stained blood on the jacket had started to fill his nostrils with the sickening scent of copper.
Mac led the way, muttering to himself whilst Javier tried to comfort him. The trail for John was just as cold as the weather, the only sign they had was a half burnt cigarette that was hastily put out on a nearby tree. Arthur picked up the cigarette, noticing it was a
Rizla Red
, the same type John smoked.
“These are John’s alright.” Arthur gave the cheap hand rolled cigarette a sniff, “Gives us somethin' to work with, looks like he went this way, you comin’ Mac?”
“I think I best try and find Dutch and the rest of the boys, can’t let them end up like-” Mac paused, “I’ll catch up with you lot when I find the big man.”
He trudged off into the snow, disappearing in a matter of seconds.
“I hope John’s holding on out there, for Abigail’s sake.” Javier grunted, pulling himself up the hill.
“Same here Javier, same here.” Arthur responded, spitting into the snow.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Black Hills, South Dakota
Arthur and Javier found John chewed up on a hillside, wolves swarming around him. Javier yelled, shooing them away with a shot from his gun.
“Marston!” Arthur shouted, running up to him. The rest of the wolves dispersed.
“Hell Arthur, he does not look good.” Javier said, both of them taking an arm and hoisting him against the hillside.
Arthur shook him gently, holding one side of his face to keep his head elevated. Blood trickled down the side, his jaw slack and bruised.
“Damnit Marston, get up.” Arthur hissed, checking the pulse on his neck.
-
The stained brown carpet of the motel room lay cluttered with items as Eliza and Abigail unpacked their bags. Isaac and Jack lay on the yellow duvet of the double bed, listening to music and trying to play cards, though Jack wasn’t entirely sure what was going on.
“It’s way past your bedtimes, you two.” Abigail smiled, perching next to them at the edge of the bed.
“But momma I can’t sleep.” Jack whined in response, jumping up into her lap. Isaac stayed quiet, swinging his lanky legs off of the bed and sitting on the floor next to Eliza.
“Hey momma.” Isaac said softly, lifting up a shirt from the floor and folding it neatly.
“You okay hun?” Eliza said quietly, placing down the clothes in her arms to wrap them around Isaac’s thin frame. He nodded quickly, hugging into her side. She placed a gentle hand on the side of his face, kissing his forehead. “That’s my boy.”
-
Arthur hiked through the snow, John’s body limp on his shoulder. His breathing had become heavier, grazing against Arthur’s cheek, the only warm air he had felt in hours.
When Arthur, Javier and sleeping John reached the top of the hill they were shocked by the clear conditions of the roads.
“You’d think it was fuckin’ spring.” Javier spat, catching his breath.
“We have to keep moving.” Arthur said, hoisting John back into place on his shoulders.
“How is he d’you think?”
“Not good, an’ I reckon the law ain’t far from us now.” Arthur frowned, turning to head up the road.
“Shit.” Javier muttered, catching up to Arthur.
The road stretched on further than they could see but it was clear they were going to start another descent into the snow if they wanted to get off the hill. Arthur sighed, dropping John down and sharing his weight with Javier as they dragged him along.
Down the hill slightly sat a wooden cabin, with smoke billowing from the chimney. There were a few motorbikes, discreetly placed around the side and Arthur immediately recognised them. He looked over to Javier who was looking back with a shit eating grin.
They hurried down the small hill, John’s feet making a trail in the snow as they dragged him along. When they arrived they placed him next to the door, his battered body lay limp and his shallow breathing the only sign of life.
“They in there?” Javier asked, checking John once again for injuries.
“Yep, gotta be. Just keep yer head down when I knock.” Arthur next to the door, reaching his hand out to knock. Knock, Knock, pause. Knock, Knock. The men heard a small click before the door swung open.
-
A knock at the door awoke Eliza from her sleep. She had curled up on the floor, falling asleep by accident as she unpacked. She got up, pulling the small blanket that had been placed on her off and hoisting herself off of the scratchy carpet.
She yawned as she opened the door, smiling when Sean Macguire stood outside it.
“Fuckin’ ‘Ell am I ‘appy to see you.” He laughed, launching himself into her. She paused for a moment before letting out a small laugh.
“How are you here? Where are the others? Is Arthur- John?” She hurriedly asked him questions.
“Look, ‘Liza, can I call you that? Anyway, I got no idea, I ran like hell away and I did no lookin’ back.” Sean laughed slightly at the end, scratching the back of his neck.
“At least you’re okay.” She paused, her shoulders slumping.
“Fresh as a Daisy!” Sean showed his tooth gap in a goofy grin. “Was jus’ here to see if you got my bag or anythin?”
“Your bag?” Eliza’s brow furrowed. “It might be in the car, or the van but I ain’t sure. Sorry Sean.”
“Not a problem, beautiful.” Sean winked and Eliza shut the door on him quickly but quietly.
-
The cold barrel of a pistol pressed against Arthur’s cheek. He squinted, trying to make out the figure in front of him, images of his life with the gang, his mother, father, Isaac… flashed before him. He thought of Eliza becoming a single mother, and how she’d manage just fine without him, like she used to do. He thought of Hosea, and how he was the only stable parent in his life.
And just as he thought it was over, he heard laughter ringing out from the cabin.
“You are a sight for sorry eyes son.” Dutch’s familiar voice boomed as he was swooped into an embrace.
“I thought you’d be halfway to Tahiti by now.” Arthur joked, patting Dutch’s back.
“Couldn't leave my best son behind could I.” Dutch winked, pulling away from the embrace.
Arthur saw most of the boys in the cabin, all bloodied up and washing away their sorrows with booze. He made his way into the cabin, greeting the guys as he went.
“Arthur, I want you to meet our new friend.” Dutch said from the door as he helped Javier bring John in. Arthur furrowed his brows, watching as Dutch led him to the staircase.
When they reached the upstairs hall Dutch pulled him to the side.
“She’s a bit jumpy.” Dutch laughed, “But poor girl’s been through a lot. Damn O’Driscoll’s came through, killed her husband and.. well you know.” Arthur frowned.
Inside the upstairs bedroom, a blonde woman lay curled up on the bed. Arthur felt guilty, intruding on her space, but followed Dutch into the room, leaving the door open.
“Mrs Adler, meet my boy Arthur.” Dutch smiled, sitting next to her on the bed.
“Pleasure.” Mrs Adler muttered. Arthur stayed quiet.
“Mrs Adler had a run in with the O’Driscolls but we helped sort them out, didn’t we.” Dutch continued, putting a hand on Mrs Adler’s shoulder.
“I already thanked you.” She muttered again. “And it’s Sadie. Sadie Adler.”
“Well, you’re safe now.” Arthur said, trying to smile.
He tapped Dutch’s arm and gestured his head to the door. The older man nodded and got off the bed, placing his hand on Arthur’s shoulder as they left the room. Arthur shut the door softly, leaning against the wall next to it.
“What’re we gonna do now?” Arthur whispered.
“What do you mean?” Dutch asked, nonchalantly
“Well, all the women, the kids, Hosea? Charles? Hell a few people are missing here Dutch.” Arthur fidgeted with the sleeve of Davey’s jacket, triggering his memory. “Let’s not forget poor Davey’s dead, half of John’s head is missin’ and Micah got taken by the damned law!” His voice grew impassioned and he began to pace the floor.
“My boy, we are safe. I have a plan.” Dutch tried to comfort him, holding his hands out, but Arthur continued to pace, his hand stroking the back of his neck.
“We ain’t safe yet. We need to find the rest of them.” Arthur continued.
“I’m sure Eliza’s fine, if that’s what you’re worked up about, son.” Dutch responded, his tone false but sweet.
“It ain’t that- well it is- but. I care for them all Dutch.”
“As do I, as do I! And you know I feel just terrible for little ‘Liza gettin’ involved.” Arthur twitched at Dutch’s patronising tone.
“She’s a grown woman.” He muttered back.
“See, nothin’ to worry about then. Come, have a drink.” Dutch smiled, wrapping an arm around Arthur’s shoulder and leading him back to the stairs.
-
The morning after Eliza, Charles and Copper went for a walk to see if there was any sign of the guys. Soon enough they found skid marks from bikes and a deep set of tire marks in the snow. Eliza took Copper back to the motel soon after under Charles’ instruction.
“What if they’re hurt?” She said as she turned to walk away.
“They will be.” Charles responded, rising from his squat position and rubbing the snow off of his hands.
“Should I go get the car?” She asked, pushing her hands deeper into her pockets.
“Waste of fuel, just, go back and get warm.” Charles said softly, making his way down the hill.
-
A knock at the door made Arthur jump. He reached for his revolver which lay on the table in front of him and made his way to the window. Peeking out the curtain revealed Charles’ bulky figure at the door, fiddling with the tassels on his jacket. Arthur smiled.
Finally.
He walked over to the door, tucking his gun into the back of his jeans.
“Thank God you’re here.” Charles said as he caught sight of Arthur’s tired eyes, leaning into a hug. Arthur's smile softened, his nose taking in the faint aroma of hemp Charles carried.
“How the Hell did you find us?” Arthur laughed, welcoming him into the cabin.
“You wouldn’t believe it but we’re just up the road.” Charles pointed behind him in the direction of the motel.
“Is ‘Liza with you?” Arthur asked quickly, fidgeting with his jeans as he moved to let Charles into the cabin.
“She is. Her and the boy. A good few others as well, we lost young Jenny on the way up though.” Charles spoke softly.
“Awh hell, we need to get off this mountain before any more of us drop.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
South Dakota, with a quick visit back to Black Water
(fictional America, I'm sorry) The group lay low for the next few days after moving everyone into the Adler’s, the bikes were parked in the outdoor shed and Charles’ van was manoeuvred carefully into the back garden. The rest of the cars were parked a ways off the road, half buried in the snow by the time the gang decided to make their move. During a failed hunting trip Arthur and Charles spotted a convoy of cars, the truck in the middle was clearly marked ‘Cornwall Industries’. Arthur thought it was worth a shot at, especially since the only vehicles being escorted these days were full of money, drugs or the pope. On their way back they had seen a suspiciously bad motor biker and upon arrival at the Adler’s they had noticed that it was in fact Mrs Adler, who had stolen John’s bike and ran off. Arthur couldn’t blame her, but decided to let Dutch know, assuming he hadn’t noticed already.
Arthur dusted off his boots before entering the crammed lodge, the air inside was warm mostly due to the last of the Adler’s firewood currently roasting in the fireplace. He shuffled past Abigail who was berating John.“Who gets themselves eaten by wolves? I mean really?”“I didn’t mean to, Abigail.” John snapped back and she aggressively patted his forehead with the makeshift ice pack she had created. He squealed like a girl and Arthur laughed as he strolled past.
He searched for Dutch, wanting to relay his findings to him when Eliza intercepted him.“How did the hunting trip go? Did you get some food? We’re down to the last of the cans and Molly is refusing to share what foods she’s got.” Eliza shot a glance across the room to Molly who sat curled up next to the fire. “We didn’t find anythin’ sorry darlin’.” He pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I’m as bad with a bow and arrow as I am with a gun.” Arthur chuckled.“Well, just be glad you didn’t end up like Marston over there. Poor Abigail.” She muttered, turning heel and walking away from him. He frowned as she went, disappearing up the stairs and out of his sight.
When he finally found Dutch he stayed quiet, watching from the door as Hosea held Dutch’s hands. They had done this for years, planning together, sitting in eachothers company and holding hands. He gave them a moment before announcing his presence with a cough.“Arthur! Do come in.” Hosea smiled, sliding his hands back into his lap.“Afraid I got some bad news.” Arthur shrugged, taking a seat at the table. “Mrs Adler’s gone. Taken John’s bike too.” “Damn, well at least it was John’s bike.” Hosea said, taking a sip of his tea.“Yes, very considerate of her.” Dutch rolled his eyes, rising from his chair. “Has Charles talked to you yet?” Arthur asked, looking at Dutch.“He has not, son, was there something you wanted to talk about?” Dutch stood still, his hands caressing the holsters that lay on his hip.“When we was out, me and Charles spotted a truck down the way, looked like it was carryin’ cash or gold or somethin’. We need any money we can get the now Dutch, we can’t stay on this hill much longer.” Arthur spoke quietly trying not to grab the attention of anyone but Dutch and Hosea.“I have a plan Arthur, but you’re right. A bit more money would do us good, would keep us safe.” Dutch paced around the room for a moment before hurriedly making his way out of the room “Okay, Hosea you spin a lie on why Arthur, Bill, Javier and I are gone. Arthur you go round the boys up. Let’s go rob ourselves some money!”
Just as the night had started to grow dark Arthur, Bill Javier and Dutch left the lodge on the bikes that were parked in the shed. Arthur decided to ride on the back of Dutch’s as he trusted Dutch’s driving far more than anyone else’s. “Been a while since you’ve been on one of these ain’t it Arthur!” Dutch shouted over the grumbling engine. “They just ain’t for me no more Dutch, I’m not tryin’ to crash as much as you lot do.” Arthur laughed.The group of men raced down the hillside, carving a path towards their prize. By the time they reached the truck it had started to move, slowly exiting the iron gates it was parked behind.
Dutch led the gang straight towards the back of the truck, fanning out his right hand to signal Bill and Javier to ride along the right side of the truck. Dutch pulled up to the truck's left side, racing towards the driver side door.“Go ahead and cut it off boys, Arthur, you get ready to jump!” Dutch shouted, pulling in as close as he could to the truck..“Awh hell!” Arthur stood shakily on the bike, reaching his arm out in an attempt to rip the door open, luckily his fingers connected with the handle and the door flew open. “What the-.” The driver didn’t have time to finish speaking before Arthur was on top of him, wrestling him out of the truck.
The driver’s body hit the floor, tumbling his way past Dutch’s bike. Javier rode in front of the bike whilst Bill fell back, shooting at the guard who ran after them.
Arthur was now sat in the driver’s seat, his foot pressing down on the accelerator. He brushed a hand through his hair, adjusting the wing mirror with his hand and catching sight of Dutch unloading a clip into the young guard who had jumped on his bike. Hell. Arthur muttered, returning his focus to the road in front. He could hear banging from the back of the van, realising that they had guards sitting inside the vault. Damnit, I have to do everything. Arthur grumbled, reaching into the back of his jeans and pulling out his Colt Revolver. He pulled the truck to the side of the road and it jittered to a stop, catching the attention of Javier who quickly sped up to his side. “What the Hell Arthur?” Javier shouted, driving alongside him before coming to a stop. “We got guards in the back.” Arthur grunted, jumping down from the tall vehicle.
The two men marched to the back of the truck, opening the doors and pulling the guards out. Dutch and Bill hadn’t caught up yet and Arthur was beginning to get a bit peaky.“We should tie them up.” Arthur said, holding the tallest one by both arms. “Tie them up? Arthur, we have to kill them.” Javier said, gesturing to their uncovered faces. The smaller one cried out.“Don’t kill us please, we don’t know who you are.” He squirmed in Javier’s grasp. “Ah shut up, heard it before.” Arthur said, looking over to Javier desperately. “Well I don’t know what to do. Why don’t we keep on driving, to the spot.” Javier suggested. “Fuck.” Arthur spat, throwing the two men back beside the vault.
By the time Dutch and Bill had met them at the meeting spot, Arthur had ‘dealt’ with the two guards. “You boys okay?” Dutch said, parking up his bike.“Just fine.” Arthur said. “Glad we got the money. We just gotta crack the damn safe.” “No time to waste then.” Bill said, strolling over to the van. “Please tell me you don’t think shootin’ its gonna work.” Arthur said as he watched Bill smugly pull out his gun. “Well it will.. won’t it?” Bill said sheepishly.“No you idiot, it won’t” Arthur said. “What year do you think we’re in, the 1890s?” “Alright smartass, you crack the code then.” Bill retorted.“It ain’t that simple. Dumbass.” Arthur shot back“Enough, we can figure it out.” Dutch said, hopping into the back of the truck.“If I had Boadicea-” Arthur started, earning a glare from Dutch.“Well there’s an idea.” Dutch smiled coyly and Arthur knew in the next 10 minutes he was either going to be shot at or chucked on the back of a motorbike.
Hilariously, it was both. “THIS WAS A VERY BAD IDEA DUTCH.” Arthur yelled from the back of Dutch’s bike.“It was your idea son, don’t blame me.” Dutch said back smugly. “ Awh Hell, I am not the ideas guy Dutch.” Arthur yelled back, clutching his side as a good stream of blood dripped through his fingers. “We all knew that, but you are a good getaway driver.” Dutch laughed, digging in his pocket as he drove. “Focus on the road, Jesus.” Arthur yelped, his eyes darting between the speed of the road beneath him and the wall that was coming up fast before him. “Well, I am a bit like Jesus…” Dutch laughed heartily, removing his hand from his pocket and throwing something into the air. Arthur quickly reached his hand out and caught what just so happened to be Boadicea’s car keys. “I also make miracles happen.” He shouted back to Arthur, making the bike skid round a bend and pull up right infront of Arthur’s trusty pickup truck. “Holy Hell-” Arthur started.“No time! Meet you back at Cornwall’s!” Dutch shouted, revving his engine and speeding off with the police on his tail. Arthur had ducked behind the pick up fast, avoiding too much attention from the preoccupied police vehicle.
After stomping on the wheel clamp ‘til it gave way, Arthur jumped into Boadicea and nearly cried at the thought of never having to ride on a motorcycle ever again. He opened his glove box quickly, looking to see all the cassettes he had collected and very happy to see his Sticky Fingers cassette cover was still there, pulling it out and taking a glimpse at the objects inside.
He managed to escape Black Water without any fuss, surprising considering the state he had left in, and dropped by Eliza’s flat before he left. He grabbed the possessions he could, mostly Isaac’s and some clothes he remembered her looking good in and made his way out of town.
By the time he made it back to pick up the safe it was dark and the snow had started again. The boys helped him to push the safe into the cargo bay of Boadicea and they escorted him back to the cabin. He parked Boadicea proudly in the drive and threw a tarp over her, just in case. “Good job son.” Dutch smiled as he helped Arthur smooth out the tarp, let’s get Lenny on this safe, he’s a clever boy.” “That he is Dutch.” Back inside the gang had returned to their sleeping spots, some on the floor, some on sofas and the girls even got the second bedroom, of course Dutch got the main one, where Mr and Mrs Adler used to reside.
Everyone was happy to see them back, except Eliza who strutted off into the girls room and ignored Arthur for practically the whole night. Abigail was in high spirits, holding John’s head in her lap and quite happy that he had no other choice but to stay there, same with Karen and Sean who had been at it all day, much to Isaac and Lenny’s dismay as they tried to play cards, and Isaac being only 13 asking why Karen was ‘hurt’ or ‘screaming’.
Arthur disappeared from the celebrations to check on Eliza and give her the things he had taken from her flat. “Hey darlin’.” He smiled, sitting down on the bed next to her. She had tucked herself up with a book, and continued to ignore Arthur as he spoke. “Are you okay?” He asked, placing a hand on her shoulder. She flinched away, putting her book down and sighing loudly. “What, Arthur? I’m busy.” She huffed, looking at him with an eyebrow raised. He laughed, realising his mistake quickly and hiding it with a quick cough. “Well, I went to your apartment uh building and I got you some things. I was wondering if you want me to move them up here. Might make you more comfortable.” He smiled dumbly, taking in her expression and wiping it off his face again. “So we’re stayin’ here now?” Her accent rang out now as she gave up hiding it.“Well I don’t k-” Arthur started.“Please don’t. Don’t tell me you don’t know. Damn you Arthur.” She pushed herself off the bed and walked to the window. “Woah ‘Liza I-.” “Don’t ‘Liza me right now, I’m mad at you.” “I know you’re mad at me, but I’m not sure why.” Arthur said sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Isaac is thirteen. Thirteen damn you. He was starting his new school this year.” She hurled the book at him and he quickly ducked, letting it hit the wall. “I’m sorry-” “Don’t be sorry-” She backed down for a moment. “I was stupid enough to bring him to this place for Christmas.” She grumbled, dropping herself onto the bed once again. “I was stupid enough to see it ain’t ever changin’.” “I don’t understand-” Arthur said softly, sitting next to her.“I dont either, Arthur.” She whispered, placing her hand on his momentarily. “I just know I need it to change.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Red Oak Ranch, Dallas, TX. Arthur had been looking for a fight. With the moon shining and the past few weeks causing a rash to come out on his left side, he’d be lying if he was to say he wasn’t just waiting to knock a few heads together to relieve the tension. A disgruntled group of men behind him at the bar shouted and waited for him to turn and face them. Stubbing out his cigarette on the counter he did exactly that, removing his hat to fix his hair and then securing it back to his head. “Y’ think yer hot shit don’t cha cowpoke?” The stranger yelled, his teeth yellow and all shades of nasty. Arthur laughed, leaning back into the bar. He knew he was hot shit. “I s’pose I do partner, but I don’t mean no harm if you just walk on by.” Arthur glanced up at the fellas before him from beneath the brim of his hat. “Ye think dressin’ like that makes ye better than us do ye feller?” A smaller and perhaps even uglier man than the yellow toothed one spoke now. He picked at a scab on his neck as he spoke, his polo shirt not able to cover the pot-belly that had been stuffed underneath it. Arthur didn’t respond, instead he took his hat off, placing it next to his drink on the bar and looking up at the barmaid. “Could y’keep an eye on this for me darlin’, don’t wanna mess y’r bar up by havin’ a brawl in it.” He winked at her, cracking his knuckles and stepping towards the two men infront of him. “We could take this outside if y’want feller. But I can’t promise y’ll be walking home tonight.” Arthur smirked as he spoke, he didn’t actually think he was hot shit and nor was he too fussed about appearing that way but he knew it’d wind the men up to their boiling point, creating a more eager fight for him. It’s like therapy without the cost , he thought. The three walked outside into the cold night air, the bar patrons swift to follow. Arthur’s breath clouded around him before dissipating into the dark sky. “Come on then, pretty boah let’s see what ye got.” The yellow toothed patron yelled. “Pretty boah? Really?” Arthur muttered under his breath, rolling his neck and readying himself, “Let's do this” He announced. The first punch the patron landed hit Arthur in the hip, he shrugged it off, landing a blow to the patron’s left side and pushing him backwards. He laughed, his breath hot. The patron ran at him like a bull and Arthur dodged, raising his hands as he swerved away. “Close one, you’d think you’d nearly fought before” Arthur goaded. The patron almost growled, grabbing Arthur by the neck. His hold was broken when Arthur flipped the man, slamming him onto his back. The patron groaned at the impact. “Woah, I don’t wanna hurt y’ old man.” Arthur offered the patron a hand, the patron scowled, pulling out a gun and pointing at him. “Well, if you insist.” Arthur flipped out his Colt revolver, pointing it at the cowering patron. He went to goad a little more, in hopes he wouldn’t actually have to kill this guy, when the fat patron joined in, kicking Arthur in the shin. “Come here boah, let me teach you a lesson.” The pot-bellied patron yelled, beckoning to Arthur. He just laughed, cocking an eyebrow. “Come on then.” Arthur beckoned. The patron yelled as he ran towards him, but Arthur just stuck his foot out, sending the patron into the air and straight into a dumpster at the side of the road. “Unlucky friend!” Arthur waved, seeing the two patrons flat on the cement. “I think that may be enough.” He laughed, making his way past the audience that had gathered and into the bar. He grabbed his hat and tossed some money the barmaid’s way. She smiled at him and he walked off, back out the bar and past the deserted strangers that were recovering together on the step. “Have a nice night fellas!” Arthur shouted as he walked back to his truck. “Hey girl.” He greeted his truck, gently tapping the bonnet. He fumbled in his back pocket for the key, earning some whistles from passing by ladies. He laughed merrily and waggled the keys in the air at them before swinging open the truck door and clumsily lugging himself inside, tossing his hat to the passenger seat. He hummed to himself softly and placed the key in the ignition. The car purred in response and the radio switched on to Johnny Cash. Arthur took off, gently bumping down from the curb and back onto the road. The bar wasn’t too far from the ranch but he thought he should make a stop at the local gas station. He lit a cigarette and rolled down his window. The night air was cold but nothing as bad as Black Hills. The winter up there was the coldest he’d ever had, and his first time seeing snow. He hummed softly to Walk The Line , as he pulled into the gas station, its neon lights glowing in the black night sky. He stopped the car and got out, stubbing out his cigarette before he did so. He walked around his truck and leaned against it as he held in the pump, staring up at the starless sky. He sighed, inhaling a breathful of gasoline. On his exhale he turned to look into the station, the flickering light at the counter buzzed softly and he stared at it for a few moments before looking back to the pump, removing it from his truck, whom he had affectionately named Boadicea. He rummaged in his pocket for his wallet as he made his way towards the glass door of the gas station, upon realising it wasn't there he rolled his eyes,”Jesus Arthur”, he muttered to himself, jogging back to Boadicea. As he reached the truck he heard a loud clatter and a shout. He ducked beside it, glancing out around the side of the headlight, the glass door of the gas station had been smashed through and a young man lay in the shattered glass outside, his blood decorating the concrete. “Fuck.” He gasped, as he watched three men clad in black gather around the body. He could hear them talking amongst themselves as he crept his way to the door of his truck, unlocking the door as gently as he could. His gun was in the glove compartment so he softly lifted his body into the driver's seat and leaned over the gears, making sure to keep his head down as he unclasped the glove compartment and pulled out his trusty Colt. He crawled out and lightly closed the door, tucking his keys into his back pocket to stay quiet. He knew he had to get away from the car before the perps investigated so he quickly crept to the rear of his pickup.Halting, he watched their feet underneath and waited for his opportunity to run around the side of the building. What am I doin’, He thought, shaking his head, his revolver tucked into the back of his levis. The criminals grew closer and closer to the truck. “Was this here when we arrived?” One asked, stopping too close for comfort. Arthur couldn’t tell what the response was so he waited for the perp to investigate to see if he had to take him out or not.“There’s no one else in there you moron.” Another answered, pointing toward the dead man sprawled in front of the door. “Oh, right.” The man in front of the truck laughed sheepishly, tapping on Boadicea’s bonnet. Fuckin’ O’Driscolls, Arthur thought to himself, making sure to keep low as he peered around to see the other two men. “Let’s jus’ rob this place and get out. I don’t wanna stick around to find the poor schmuck who this belongs to.” The third O’Driscoll spoke up, gesturing to return to the gas station. The sheepish O’Driscoll hung back a little while longer, beginning to walk around it. Arthur delicately made his way back to the drivers side, keeping watch from under the truck at all times. When he reached the bonnet the sheepish O’Driscoll had vanished. Arthur looked around, but he was nowhere to be seen. He saw his opportunity to run to the side door and took it, head dipped and knees bent as he went. Upon reaching the door he peered through the glass, he counted the men, only two of the ugly fuckers. “Where’s the damn third.” He whispered to himself, removing his Colt from his waistband. He flipped open the chamber, peering in to check how many bullets he had. Four . Leaves room for mistake, I suppose. He grunted, back pressed against the cold brick of the gas station. He opened the door slightly, listening to the robbery at hand.“Just get the cash.” He heard one say, followed by a few footsteps and the shaking of a cash box.“How’m I meant to open it?” Came the response. Arthur rolled his eyes pushing through the door. A bell dinged loudly and the perps jumped to face his direction. “What the hell?” The leader yelled, reaching for his gun. Arthur grunted, Stupid bell. He had failed to notice the bell attached to the top of the door, but had luckily managed to roll behind a Cola fridge. “That’s it, we gotta find jeep guy.” Jeep guy? Arthur thought, I do not drive a jeep. “ You check that way and I’ll investigate around the door.” Arthur heard their footsteps now, closer and closer they drew. As soon as he saw the tattered black boots of the O’Driscoll he shot up, placing his gun to the O’Driscolls head, and wrapping his left arm around his neck. “Don’t move partner, or we’re gonna have problems.” He addressed the second O’Driscoll, moving his gun from the leader, pointing it towards the other man. “Fuck” The leader muttered, his voice muffled from trying to fight Arthur’s grip. “I ain’t lowering mine mister.” The other O’Driscoll spoke, holding his gun firm. “Fine” Arthur shrugged, he turned his gun in and shot the leader, ducking for cover before the man hit the floor. The remaining O’Driscoll dove behind the counter, his gun shakily poking out the side. Suddenly, the smashed front door swung open, breaking more as it hit the wall. A figure wearing a black biker's helmet walked in holding the sheepish O’Driscoll, gun pointed at his back. “That you Arthur?” A husky voice rang out, muffled by the helmet.“Marston? Where the hell you been?” Arthur questioned, popping up from his cover. A bullet whizzed past his head and he dove back down. “Ah shit. A little help here?” He raises his gun up to shoot at the O’Driscoll, but before he has the chance to squeeze the trigger, John takes the shot, removing the gun from the sheepish O’Driscoll’s back and aiming it at the one behind the counter. The sheepish O’Driscoll breaks free, making a run for it over the cashier’s dead body. “Fuck! Arthur, go get him!” Marston yelled, taking cover himself from the remaining O’Driscoll. “I’ll cover you.” “Jesus Marston, you idiot.” Arthur yelled, running through the gas station. O'Driscoll shot at him as he ran, but was caught by John, a bullet straight through the forehead. John exhaled, removing his helmet. But Arthur was already on the move, running after the sheepish O’Driscoll who was gunning it down the road. “Leave me be mister!” O'Driscoll yelled running down the verge of the highway, his feet kicking up dust with each stride. But Arthur didn’t quit, he sprinted forward lunging towards the O’Driscoll. “Please!” He yelled again, clumsily tripping up. But Arthur was much bigger and knocked him down. They tumbled to a halt and Arthur pinned him down.“John!” Arthur yelled out, “Bring my cuffs!” He turned back to the O’Driscoll, “What’s your name boah?” The O’Driscoll gulped, “I’m no one!” He cried out, “Everyone’s someone. Who are you?” Arthur insisted, pushing the O’Driscoll into the rough tar. “Please! I’ll never tell I-I promise! I hate the O’Driscolls!” He cried, but Arthur shoved him down harder.“Damnit, what is your name boah?” He said, watching John trot up to him, he nodded at him as he took the cuffs, a silent thank you. John nodded back, crossing his arms as he watched Arthur beat up the O’Driscoll boy. “It’s Keiran! My n-name is Keiran, with a K.” “Okay! Keiran with a K, what’s your last name?” “Duffy! K-Keiran Duffy!” Keiran cried out, “But I ain’t one of them I promise, I hate them!” “Oh sure, sure. Come on Keiran with a K Duffy, you’re coming with us. I haven’t seen an O’Driscoll for a while, I’m sure Dutch wants to have a little chat with you.” Arthur smiled, sealing the cuffs and lugging Keiran over his shoulder. Arthur looks around to Marston who’s standing, hip cocked and biker helmet tucked under his arm, cigarette hanging out of his mouth. “What are you wearing?” Arthur grunts, making strides back to the station. “You like it?” Marston flaunts, flipping his hair out of his eyes and readjusting his ponytail. “It’s something. What's with the … uh” He gestured to his head, meaning the ponytail “You look like a pineapple.” He spoke softly, eyebrow cocked. John laughed. “You’re so old Arthur.” He joked, bumping his shoulder into Arthur. “You don’t get it old man.” Arthur laughed in response. “I guess.” “You’re gonna hate this part.” John continued, unzipping his leather jacket to reveal a ripped tank top, revealing a small portion of his torso, including a crude line of curly black hair that led down to his leather trousers. Arthur audibly laughed. “I just don't get you.” He chuckled, approaching the truck and dumping Keiran in the back. John laughed, raising an eyebrow. “You gonna leave him in the back?” “Well he ain’t cuddling up with me in the front.” Arthur joked, “Sorry Keiran, you just ain’t my type.” “No offence taken.” Keiran muttered, face down in the cargo hold. Arthur paused for a moment, untucking his revolver from his levis. He unlocked the door and hopped into the truck, putting his revolver down in the passenger seat. Starting up his truck he drove to the junction and waited a minute, spotting Marston mounting his bike. Marston drove over, stopping at the driver's side.“You coming back to the ranch?” Marston said, flipping up his visor and taking the last drag from his cigarette. Arthur lit up himself, taking a long drag and hanging his hand out the window. “That's where I’m headed.” “What about that poor bastard?” Marston gestured to the young cashier, still laying in a pool of glass and blood. “Nothing we can do.” Arthur said, driving off. The radio buzzed and crackled as he disappeared into the hills.