#these two are gonna be cuddlebugs

[waywardsculs-a2]

"Cupid!" Rushing to his side, emily gives her old friend a nice hug. "Oouhhh its been too long!!" And you bet shes squeezing him. "You have been busy, huh?"

UNPROMPTED // ALWAYS ACCEPTING

" Emily ! "

Arms gladly welcomed the younger angel close, wrapping around her smaller frame in a tight embrace as the two of them spun around mid - air . Even as they came to a stop he seemed reluctant to release her, bright smile on the blond's face.

" I've been just a little busy , but never too busy for you - you know that ! How've you been ? "

[unluckiestmember]

YAY, YOU'RE BACK TO WRITING FOR ARCANE. How would the arcane characters react (mainly vi, ekko, and jinx because i would marry, marry, and marry them all!!) to a reader who is sooo affectionate and finds every last thing they do so cute they get cuteness aggression and just jump at them like a cuddle bug often? thank you so much!!

Coming right up!

Arcane x Cuddle Bug! Reader

Characters: Powder/Jinx, Violet "Vi", Ekko, Caitlyn Kiramman, Viktor, Jayce Talis, Mel Medarda, Sevika and Ran.

Warning: None really. SFW.

A/N: Am I the only one who wants to snuggle into Caitlyn? Ugh, I love her so much.

Powder/Jinx

“Oh! Hey there, sugar! You want to cuddle? Don’t have to ask me twice! I’ll cuddle you so much that you get tired of me! But you’d never get tired of me, right?”

Jinx is a super clingy person, so for you to be as clingy as her it’s like you two are a match made in heaven. There’s barely any time that passes when you two are not touching each other and she lives for your cuddles. It doesn’t matter if you hug her out of nowhere or she sees you about to embrace her, she is stopping everything she is doing and pulling you into the tightest of hugs.

Most of the time if she isn’t causing mayhem in the streets of Zaun or busy with her inventions, she will spend her time just holding you so close and showering your face with the cutest but most childish of kisses. She doesn’t care if it’s in private or public, she will make it known that you two can’t keep your hands off each other. You are her cuddlebug and she is yours and that won’t ever change.

Violet “Vi”

“Woah there, cuddle bug! You’re gonna make me screw up my workout… Oh forget it. How can I say no to you?”

Because Violet is absolutely touch starved, she will never decline your cuddles, even if you take her by surprise a few times with how you hug her so suddenly. She finds it adorable how you fangirl around her and find everything she does to be awesome or cute. Granted she does wish you’d call her hot or sexy, but knows that isn’t really in tune with your personality.

Regardless, she tries to make sure you know how adorable you are, always telling you while you two are cuddled up together how lucky she is to have you and how you are so adorable. Even when you visit her at work, she’ll try to drop everything and have you run into her arms to pick you up. And every time she’s got time off work or is coming back from a job, she’s automatically looking for you so she could hook you in her arms and never let go.

Ekko

“Y/N, haha! You know we gotta keep this private, babe- The kids are gonna pounce on us any second now!”

Does Ekko love hugging you? Absolutely. The warmth of your arms around his body makes him stop everything he’s doing and just hug you while calling you his firelight or firefly. Unless he’s calling you an angel or lovebug, which never fails to make Scar either look at you two in awe or roll their eyes in mock annoyance. Unfortunately, Ekko does try his best to make sure you two don’t get super affectionate around the children, especially when it comes to hugs.

Why? Because as soon as you hug him, the children find this as an invitation to gather around him and have him nearly die under a cuteness overload of a group hug. It’s nice as a once in a while occurrence, but all the time? Maybe not. Outside of the reactions you two garnish and even the teasing of you being the firelight king/queen, Ekko lives for your cuddlebug energy, wanting to be in your arms after a long day’s work. It’s always the best way to end the night… 

Caitlyn Kiramman

“And that’s why if I am able to block this end of the road, I’ll- Oh!... Oh come here, sweetheart. If you wanted to cuddle so badly, you could’ve asked.”

Caitlyn has always been someone who was more subtle with her love, pulling you into brief kisses, cupping your cheek and holding you by your waist. She usually leaves the more out there gestures like hugging and cuddling for you to initiate. But when you do? It might be harder for you to get her off of you instead of the other way around. It can be at work, in her home, outside of work or at an event. As soon as she feels your arms wrap around her slender body, she’s stopping for a second to hold you back and kiss your forehead.

She will continue working if you interrupt her during a briefing or in the middle of cracking a case, but the entire time, she will have at least one arm around your body and make sure you are comfortable. Her comrades tease her about it and she’ll scowl a bit, but she doesn’t care. As far as she can tell, she’s extremely lucky to have you as a lover.

Viktor

“Ah! Oh, it is just you, zolotse. Remember, you have to warn me of these cute little hugs of yours.”

At first, Viktor wasn’t used to your physical affection and how you were in awe of everything he did. He actually thought you were mocking him at first or being silly. But after a while, especially when the two of you became a couple, he grew accustomed to your affections. He does get a bit startled when you hug him out of nowhere and he does have moments where you cheering him on does make him a bit bashful, but he enjoys your sweet gestures regardless.

He does find it difficult to be as outgoing with his love for you as you are with him, but he does try his best to make you realize he loves you, especially in the form of quality time and calling you by sweet pet names bound to make you blush. Viktor has a tendency to pass out from working too hard and waking up in your arms. And though he’d never say it out loud, you know based on the way he snuggles into you, he adores it and adores you.

Jayce Talis

“I know what you want and I want it too- So bring it in! I’ve waited all day to be in your arms!”

Because Jayce is always out at work, it’s kind of hard for you two to be around one another all the time. That’s why when he does reunite with you after hours or you two can be together on days off, he’s spending the majority of his free time with you or wrapped around you. He sort of craves for your praise and compliments as much as he craves your cuddles.

Many would compare the councilman to a needy dog wanting his owner’s undivided attention and he definitely gets that through you. Though he may try to act all cool or play coy, everyone knows that you mean so much to him and that he becomes putty around you. Even if they don’t, you’re not afraid to say it aloud. Just make sure Jayce isn’t around or that man will become redder than a beet.

Mel Medarda

“What’s wrong?... I know that look. You want to- Ah! Well looks like you beat me to the punch, darling. How about we take this to the bed, hmm?”

Mel wasn’t really given physical affection when she was younger. She was more someone who preferred verbal affection with words of affirmation. So when it came to you and how affectionate you are, she found herself adapting and loving physical affection as much as telling you how much she loved you.

Your cuddles and sweet gestures are her personal heaven she loves returning to after a long day’s work, especially if she can spend an evening with you platonically in your shared bed. In your arms, she feels she can air out anything that’s bothering her or interests her, especially when you admit how cute it is when she does. Though this kind of intimate affection is delegated to private quarters, anyone can know from the way Mel speaks of you outside of home and at events that you mean so much to her.

Sevika

“Yeah! So then I was like screw you, I can do whatever- Hold on. Uh, Y/N. I thought we agreed to not do this at work?”

Sevika is considered the Right Hand of Zaun, a woman who is feared if not respected by her peers. And she’d like to keep it that way. Which means that while you two are at work, she prefers it if you don’t cuddle her around co-workers and give them something to tease her about. You two can only flirt and kiss and even then, it has to be sexy…

But alone, when both of you are away from the public eye, Sevika is at your beck and call wishing for nothing else but to hear your sweet praises and melt into your arms and touch. Expect her to call you the cutest thing ever and tease you on occasion, but afterwards she’s basically a big needy cat, or as she prefers to be called, a panther. It’s moments like these where you can really consider yourself lucky to see a raw side of Sevika. And it was only preserved for you.

If you got any requests for Arcane or X-Men '97, send them my way!

Likes and retweets are always appreciated! I love you all, stay hydrated and have a good day! <3

[iluvloganhowlett]

DATING LOGAN HOWLETT HCS ｡𖦹°‧

sfw headcannons of how i imagine it to be like dating logan howlett

warnings: tbh not any, j a lot of fluff

- it def took logan a while to open up to you, given his past, but once he did it was awesome

- once he got comfortable enough, he’d literally never stop talking, which is ironic considering how annoyed he gets whenever wade talks

- he’d always talk sm shit on scott to you, knowing you’d listen

^^ “has anyone ever brought to your attention how annoying scott is?” “yes baby, you have, every day.”

- he’s def a big cuddlebug behind closed doors ofc

- when you’re in public tho, it’s a diff story

- the most pda you’ll ever prob get is an arm around the shoulder or a ruffle of your hair

- maybe if you’re lucky, he’ll press his lips to your hair for a while, despite getting ridiculed by storm and the others

- though you’re also a mutant and can handle yourself, he can’t help but feel his stomach drop once a mission is over and you’re even slightly injured

^^ “y/n! y/n are you okay?” “logan im fine,” “you’re bleeding,” “barely!”

- when you guys fight or argue, he pretends to be mad at you to your face, but as soon as you run off he’s frantically asking around to see if anyone’s seen you

- he tries, he really does, but hes not very good at keeping track of anniversaries and things of that sort

- however your birthday is something he’ll never forget

- you guys def share a room at the school

^^ that being said, logan def has waited on your bed for you to get out of the shower, admire you, then make his way out

- you guys def argue a lot, but they’re not big arguments

^^ you’re both very stubborn people who always think they’re right, so when it comes to a disagreement between you two, things don’t always go down well

^^ “you sound fucking stupid, respectfully” “i hate you, logan!” “i love you too, doll.”

- logan, too, would do anything in this power to even get a small chuckle out of you—and everyone else notices too

- the switch in his demeanor after he puts you in a good mood is almost unmissable it’s crazy

- i might’ve already said this but he acts all cold hearted towards everyone but he just has a soft spot for you and he can’t control it

- not exactly sfw here but logan will talk dirty or make dirty jokes any chance he gets like a 15 year old boy

^^ “this missions gonna be long and it’s gonna be hard you guys,” storm begins as logan leans down slightly to whisper in your ear, “y’know what else is long and hard?” he asks, soon getting cut off by your elbow going straight to his gut

that’s all i could think of😔 hope u enjoyed

taglist!!

@velvrei @spazwayy @oatmilkriver @sseleniaa @mei-simp @wittyjasontodd @wolverinesangel @realsimpbitchshit @pickuptruck01 @keigohawks @thereallchristine @zeeader @pink-jello-fish @twinky-wink @malfoys-demigod @seamlessepiphany @withafoll @lulawantmula

[azlrse]

Cuddle headcannons of malleus and idia please 👉👈

➳ cuddlebug (malleus draconia/idia shroud x gn!reader; separate)

cw: kinda short cause still on writer's block, characters might be ooc, overall fluff

a/n: my freshmen year in pharmacy school has ended like weeks ago (yayy!! and had really good grades ngll) and had lots of time to write sum fics for you guys ^^

malleus draconia 🐉

i feel like malleus himself would be the first one to initiate into cuddling you just because he's curious on how warm you were comparing to him. bro's really curious since in his culture and heritage, mothers would initially cuddle their egg/babies and giving them with love. malleus, however was deprived with this opportunity since his mother is barely present when he hatched from his egg.

at first, your boyfriend is slightly nervous when asking you this question since the two of you are dating for at least 5 months. you just looked at him and said, "why are you asking this question? you know I'm really comfortable with you cuddling me. im just waiting for you to cuddle with me." as you extended your arms in front of him.

malleus just went 🥺 and 🥰 as he picked you from the floor and proceeded to lay the both of you into his bed, making you shocked from the sudden action but quickly relaxed as soon as you felt his head being placed on the crook of your neck. malleus loves it when your hands are caressing his face as he stared at you with adoration and hearts in his eyes and tends to kiss your hand while your hand are being cupped to his cheek.

most of the time, he's the big spoon in terms of cuddling but if he's the one having a really bad day, he's the one laying on your chest being the little spoon. malleus would also love the cradle position and the half spoon since he loves holding you on his arms.

idia shroud 💠

you're going to be the one who would proposed the idea on the subject of cuddling with him because this guy, won't be the one to initiate cuddling cause he would die of shame asking you to cuddle so good luck with him (even tho i loved him sm).

even though idia loves you (like a ton), he's gonna wait for you to ask him if you would like to cuddle with him. bro's not the type to make the move first aside from asking you out (thanks to ortho's reassurance that you liked him back)

he's also not used into physical touch so you better be patient with him, it may start with his head on your shoulder and escalated into hugging you from behind as you lay down on his bed. idia would love it if one of your leg in placed on his thigh when he plays something on his computer/console.

idia's concern regarding cuddling you is his hair but you quickly reassured him that you loved his hair so much on how comfortably warm it is in his air-conditioned room. he would whine if you are not touching his hair if the both of you are cuddling together (only you and ortho since he is really uncomfortable on others touching him, including his long hair).

probably he dreams on having you on his lap when he plays a game or just relaxing with you while talking about his interests and kisses your face while holding you (he's quite shy on kissing your lips yet hehe)

Do not republish, edit, or repost to other websites.

Reblogs and likes are appreciated! 💕

[dioslesbianwife]

Could I request cuddling headcannons with stardust crusaders??????

🙏🙏🙏

sure! thank you for requesting and i hope you enjoy :333

Jotaro Kujo

Pretends he hates cuddling. “Yare yare daze… it’s too hot. You’re clingy.”

But he’s the first one to pull you into his lap when no one’s looking.

Tucks your head under his chin and grumbles “Don’t move.” (you’re not gonna)

His arms are so solid around you. You feel protected instantly.

Will fall asleep holding you with his hat still on, hat tilted over his face.

Lowkey hums under his breath when he’s especially comfy.

You shift too far away and he tightens his grip like “Did I say you could leave?”

Cuddle Rank: Bear Trap. Once he’s on you, you’re not escaping.

Joseph Joestar 

“Hah! Come to Grandpa Jojo”

Sir. Please.

Big spoon energy but also likes when you lie on top of him like a weighted blanket.

Talks SO MUCH during cuddling. Mostly dumb stuff you couldn’t care less about.

Makes jokes while rubbing your back. You laugh in spite of yourself.

Super warm body. Surprisingly comforting despite being chaotic.

Will absolutely doze off and snore right in your ear. You just accept it.

Wakes up confused with drool on your shoulder like “HUH?! WHAT TIME IS IT?! WHO ARE YOU??”

Cuddle Rank: Warm, loud, affectionate, and kind of annoying. But it’s love.

Polnareff

DRAMATIC CUDDLER #1.

Literally throws himself on top of you like “Mon amour~ I have arrived~!”

Tries to make it sexy but is secretly the biggest cuddlebug ever.

Loves spooning. LOVES playing with your hair while holding you.

Constantly kisses your temple, cheek, forehead- any spot he can reach.

If you cuddle on the couch, he insists on a movie or music in the background for the vibe.

Whines if you get up. “You’re abandoning me?? For snacks?? Without me??”

Cuddle Rank: Annoying French Man™

Avdol

Quiet, warm, stable cuddler.

The type to gently pull you into his lap and read a book over your shoulder.

You fall asleep against his chest and he instinctively adjusts the blanket.

Mutters comforting things like “You’re safe now. Rest easy.”

Big hands rubbing slow circles on your back = instant sleep.

Smells like incense and cinnamon. You get addicted to it.

He’s the guy who says “No pressure,” but is so good at cuddling you melt into a puddle every time.

Cuddle Rank: Emotional support heater. Calm, grounded, 10/10.

Kakyoin

Shy about it at first. “Oh, do you wanna- ? I mean, if you’re cold.”

Once he gets comfortable?? Cuddle mode activates.

Likes to hold your hand or play with your fingers while cuddling.

Loves when you nap on his chest and he can just stroke your hair, totally smitten.

Will blush if you compliment how warm he is.

Might talk about random stuff like constellations or facts he read while you cuddle.

Falls asleep with a little smile and refuses to let go of your hand.

Cuddle Rank: Sweetheart gentleman who turns into a clingy marshmallow.

Iggy

Does NOT want to cuddle you.

You are not worthy unless you have food.

That said… if you smell nice and your lap is soft… he might curl up there.

Glares at you the whole time like “Don’t get the wrong idea.”

Snores. Loudly. On his back, legs twitching.

If anyone comes near you two, he growls. “This human is mine now.”

God forbid you move- he’ll act like you just crushed his soul.

Cuddle Rank: Cute but demanding. Will fart and blame you.

[pixelchills]

Can you tell us some fun facts about dolldrops?

Oh, gladly! I can include some in-universe facts and facts about the real-life dolls!

In-universe (fictional):

Dolldrops have been in their doll bodies for over 10 years now (7 years with Mrs Flora, 3+ years with Chill).

Sunny is left-handed and has a squeaker in his right hand. Moony is right-handed and has a squeaker in his left.

The dolldrops are ageless. They act like responsible adults in some areas of their lives and like kids/babies in others.

They pretend to get married at least once a month.

Sunny is a frequent giggler and loves anything that has him included (except check-ups).

Moony has a very ticklish spot on his back where the hook used to be in their old body.

The Dolldrops were eventually legally adopted by Chill and changed their names to Sunspot and Moonbean.

Moony gets rid of any bugs that come inside the house. He chews them up and then spits them to the bin.

Sunny runs everywhere. He only walks when he's feeling down (or holding hands with Moon).

Moony sometimes sucks his thumb.

Sunny is much clumsier than Moony for some reason.

They're both cuddlebugs.

They both love watching Bluey.

Sunny has tiny solar panels inside his rays that make him the more energetic of the two.

Moony sometimes chews cables.

Sunny does most of the chores in the house.

Moony has lazy cat energy, Sunny is more like a small, excited dog.

The real life dolls:

They're sturdy enough to stand on their own.

They're constantly gaining more clothes because I am hopeless when it comes to baby clothes lol.

The dolls have their own drawers for clothing and 'their toys'.

Moony is gonna be a lot quicker and easier to do than Sunny. Sunny's rays took most of the time because they had to be hand sewn.

They've grown a little bit from their original size. The original dolls were 50cm tall but currently Sunny stands at 64cm (with rays).

Sunny weights approx. 1 kg.

My husband and I often pretend that Sunny is our super annoying toddler son (and we blame him for all the stuff that goes missing/gets broken).

Everytime hubby and I leave the house we say: "Dolldrops, you're in charge! Take care of the house while we're gone."

I wish to give the dolls voiceboxes/speakers somewhere in the future.

Hubby wants to make them a small ballpit.

The irl dolls are also traumatised by a vacuum cleaner: my best friends was helping me with Sun's rays and then started to hoover around to clean the dust. She bumped the table where Sun's rays were waiting and one of them fell straight in front of the hoover, which sucked it in XD We joke about Sunny being afraid of her now lol.

Everyone in my family loves them; my mum says they're her "grand-dolls"; my nieces want to always see pictures of the dolls when I see them; my sister compares Dolldrop Sunny to our grandfather's "muse", which was a monkey plush (grandpa was also an artist).

Thanks for the question, it was fun to come up with these! 🥰

[anonmousegosqueak]

I know it was just head canons in my last ask, not much for you to actually expand on, but I have a request oh great Author. Well, technically two of them, but I'm not sure if you write Kortac characters. I'll send the Kortac one here, and then make another ask with the plain 141, so feel free to just ignore this one. Warning, I'm still highly medicated at the moment.

. . .

The 141 is forced to work with the Gun for Hire company Kortac. I think they've got their own ranking system, so while König is considered a colonel to his people, it doesn't mean shite to the actual military personnel.

König (208 cm) and Ghost (193 cm) get along surprisingly well, both lamenting over the world being too small for them. While König is definitely not normal like Ghost, he can at least compartmentalise better than most people.

König brings his boyfriend Horangi with him, and Soap is just like, "have I blown you up before?" because he overheard Horangi and Gaz talking about their most traumatic injuries. (Gaz: Helicopter. Horangi: Getting blown up and barely surviving.)

Horangi: "Most likely, which means you failed."

Que Soap spending the entire mission trying to figure out when he almost killed Horangi (spoiler, they've never run into each other) while their boyfriends watch from the sidelines in chairs that are too small.

-🦴

Bonerrrr y'all are keeping me FED

I feel like I've made enough Gaz appreciation posts that I can make something for König.

Did you know- I was actually a König simp before anything else? I didn't even know what CoD was (outside of toxic lobby voice chat memes) before him. I'm just always hesitant to write anything about the big anxiety cuddlebug because A: the Gaz vs. König debate scares me, I'm so sick of people replacing Gaz but I also love König with all my heart, and B: (more importantly) he's pure fan characterization. It's too much of a risk to accidently write him 'wrong' cus I imagine him one way.

Now onto the sillies.

I was gonna draw something but I got too many thinks I gotta get out so I skipped it for now. But the mentor image of two big spooky guys, looming around and staring at these short loud men, sitting in chairs way too small? I think they're very much 'sitting in silence=friendship' kinda guys.

Like- Soap and Horangi running around outside, having fun after a mission (Gaz is here too, you'll see why later), they've already gotten in trouble for trying to steal Roach, eaten allll the snacks, and probably hidden several traps for the others to find later.

Ghost and König in the shade, one of them is giving the death stare, the other is sharpening knives. Why? Because König has resting murder face (with the mask on, without it he looks like a drowned rat who needs a hug) and knives are Ghost's autistic hobby.

And don't get it confused- both of these pares are literally besties now. Yeah Horangi and Soap are planning to go out for drinks and keep in touch once Kortac has to leave whereas König and Ghost haven't said a word to each other in over an hour. That's just their style.

König proved himself in the field, showed strength, leadership, and protected his men when it came down to it. That's enough for Ghost.

Besides, they're both used to... Noisy boyfriends, some quiet is definitely appreciated.

AND THEN ROACH COME UP-

König- "I like my small angry husband" :)

Ghost- "I like my small angry husband" :)

Roach- 'i like my small angry husband" :3

Ghost- "..."

König- "Pardon?"

Ghost- "Roach... Bbg, you *are* the small husband. Just cus Gaz is short doesn't make you tall."

Roach- :(

König- "???"

Ghost- "fine. You can join the 'has a small angry husband' club even though your husband is not small or angry."

Roach- :D

[goodlucktai]

hold the world to its best (3/?)

rottmnt word count: 2k pairing: raph & OC, raph & donnie title borrowed from light by sleeping at last part of the archer au

(prev) (next)

x

The closest Gio comes to fussing is when he thinks Splinter is going to put him down. His fist tightens in the front of Splinter’s robe and his eyes get shiny and his lower lip starts to pucker. Raph can tell a baby brother that’s about to cry from a mile away and similarly Donnie goes stock-still under Raph’s arm and makes an alarmed noise in his throat, like someone witnessing the improper handling procedures of a live explosive. 

But Splinter is only resituating his hold to sit them both on the sofa, where Gio is parked comfortably in his father’s lap, and no tears are shed. The baby’s or anybody else’s. 

“I trust you have been taking pictures,” Splinter says in a tone that suggests he will seriously consider disowning all of them if otherwise. 

“Father, am I a joke to you?” Donnie asks flatly. “SHELLDON has already texted all of you the link to a shared photo album which syncs automatically at the top of the hour.”

“SHELLDON is the only trustworthy person in this house,” Splinter tells Gio, ignoring Donnie’s offended squawking. “Your silly brothers haven’t even found you something warm to wear! And look at your little arms, you are practically just skin and bones! They haven’t fed you either, I take it? Pah. Clearly we must do everything ourselves around here.”

“Dad,” Mikey whines, “we were gonna do all of that! We just got home!” 

“Are you seriously holding a grudge because we missed your calls?” Leo asks incredulously. “You left me on read for two days once.”

“There are five of you and not one of you picked up the phone. Ridiculous.” 

Gio is staring up at Splinter’s face. Some of the words going back and forth over his head are clearly too big for him to follow, and he’s missing vital context to fill in all the gaps, but Splinter’s voice is still that one exclusive to very little turtles. His normal register, just lower and calmer, easily shifting from soothing to playful without much tonal change. And Gio is absorbing it like a reptile basking in the sun. Like he’s never heard anything like it before.

Raph wants to convince himself that there are plenty of reasons for Gio to never have been spoken to lovingly at this age. He can’t think of a single one, but there must be. 

April can’t stay for much longer, because she has a nine o’clock class in the morning that she can’t skip and she told her mom she’d be home for dinner. But she promises to return tomorrow with Gio-sized clothes come hell or high water. 

“Just as soon as I figure out how to tell my mom I need baby stuff without her jumping to the worst possible conclusion,” April says, sounding hunted. She crouches in front of the sofa and adds, “Can I get a big hug for the road from my favorite polka dot?”

“Regular cuddlebug,” Leo remarks quietly, observing as Gio readily loops his skinny arms around April’s neck. He even rubs their cheeks together, marveling at the softness of her skin against his textured scales. April looks seconds away from scooping him up and running out the door with him. 

“He hugs us all the time,” Raph replies, knowing as he says it that it’s not the same. 

It would surprise a stranger to get a glimpse of the Gio that lives behind that resting murder face and closed-off body language, but Raph knows firsthand how affectionate his big brother is. 

He lets little siblings stuff their hands in his coat pockets when it’s cold outside, and fall asleep on his shoulder halfway through a movie they insisted on watching, and crowd noisily into his personal space to claim his attention. And he does it as if it would never have occurred to him not to do it.

He’s never asked any of them for a hug, though. Now that he’s thinking about it, with a sinking feeling in his stomach, Raph can’t remember a single time that Gio asked anyone for anything at all. 

Raph wishes for about the millionth time in his life that he could peel back the screen behind Leo’s eyes and catch a preview of the puzzle his brain is rapidly assembling piece by inscrutable piece into some bigger picture. 

When April has finally wrestled with her cuteness aggression and won, giving Gio a final squeeze that would have been lung-crushing for a human person but only feels snug and affectionate to anyone with the built-in body armor of a turtle shell, she walks backwards towards the turnstiles blowing dramatic goodbye kisses to everyone else and Mikey steps up to bat.

“Time for the most crucial conversation of the day,” he says importantly. “Of our lives even,” he stresses, which Raph thinks might be pushing it. “What’s your favorite food in the whole world, Georgie?”

Gio is still waving goodbye to April with the hand holding the ladybug keychain, because the other is gripping tight to Splinter’s sleeve. It takes him a second to realize Mikey is talking to him, and a second after that for him to realize everyone is looking at him, anticipating his answer. He pulls both hands in tight to his middle again, even letting go of Splinter to do it, and doesn’t say anything at all. 

“Kind of a big question, Miguelito,” Leo swoops in before the gap in the conversation can grow any larger than it will take a little hop to cross. “You have ten different favorite foods for each day of the week.”

“Oh, that’s fair,” Mikey allows. “And Donald wouldn’t be able to list ten foods he liked if someone put a gun to his head.”

“I have a refined palate,” says their brother who once famously refused to eat anything other than butter pasta for two and a half weeks in a row when he was thirteen. “Clemmys guttata are omnivorous, and opportunistic feeders. They eat whatever they can find underwater. Not to say our George wouldn’t love peanut butter toast and Lucky Charms as much as the next preschooler, but something tells me Michael wants options with a little more pizzazz.” And even though he has gone on record more than once in recent memory to state in no uncertain terms that he would sooner walk backwards into hell than eat any dish involving shellfish, Donnie goes on, “Don’t we have shrimp in the fridge?”

Mikey brightens, struck with inspiration. “I can work with that!” 

He springs for the kitchen at full speed, hooking his arm through Leo’s on his way past and yanking his immediate older brother along with him—tribute selected for the mealtime assist. 

Raph can hear them bickering playfully from here, and if he looks he’ll see that Leo is already tying on his favorite apron, folding it over the way he must have learned from all those hours following Hueso around the back of house at Run of the Mill. And Mikey will untie his and retie it the way Leo does it, like clockwork. Neither of them will stop talking even once until dinner is made, their unending, overlapping chatter the closest Raph has ever come to understanding those ASMR videos April and Donnie send back and forth in the group chat.  

Similarly, Splinter’s ear twitches back toward the kitchen every so often, tuning in. And Donnie’s nervous energy is finally petering out. The battle shell disengages with a hiss of hydraulics, making Gio’s eyes get big and alarmed when it stands up on spiderlegs and walks in the direction of its charging dock in the lab. 

“I bet yours doesn’t do that, huh?” Raph teases. Gio shakes his head no rapidly, and Raph feels fondness pop in his chest like a firecracker. “Don’t worry, mine doesn’t either. Donnie’s one of a kind.”

“Thank you, Raph, but we can discuss my blanket superiority later,” Donnie says, earning a thwap on the knee from the tip of Splinter’s tail. With the heavy armor off his back, Donnie sits cross-legged on the floor in front of the sofa comfortably, bracing his hands on his knees. “You understand English, but papa’s Japanese didn’t seem to land. Do you know sign?” He lifts his hands to sign along with the question, slow and deliberate. 

“Dang, Raph didn’t even think of that,” Raph admits. 

Gio watches Donnie’s hands repeat the question once. Uncomprehending, but very interested in whatever he’s doing. 

“That’s okay,” Donnie says easily, and settles in to teach the way he once taught April. “Let’s start with the alphabet. This will be easy for you. I don’t make a habit of telling them this, lest it go to their heads, but all of my siblings share a fraction of my genius. Cut from the same cloth and all. We are a family of very smart cookies. And you,” Donnie tells him, “are a very, very smart cookie.”

“He’s a snickerdoodle!” the eavesdroppers in the kitchen bellow in tandem. 

“You’re a snickerdoodle,” Donnie says solemnly. Splinter snorts, but otherwise doesn’t interrupt. 

Raph worries for the first few minutes that the finger-spelling might be too advanced, and he doesn’t want Gio to get discouraged. How old are kids when they learn to spell, anyway? But Gio picks it up quickly, the shapes he makes with his fingers becoming less clumsy the longer Donnie walks him through his ABCs. Splinter always used to say he was surprised by how quickly the turtles tore through their learning material when they were little, and Gio is as much Draxum’s bizarre lab experiment as the rest of them are. Maybe that’s what Donnie meant in the first place. 

Donnie hums something as he finger-spells H-E-L-L-O G-I-O, a tune that pings in the back of Raph’s mind as familiar and makes Leo giggle from over in the kitchen. Donnie smiles without even glancing that way, because the two of them have an inside joke for every other word they say, and it’s always kind of a special prize to make clever Leo laugh without meaning to. 

“You’re alright but I’m here, darling, to enjoy the party,” Donnie shoulder-shimmies as he sings what Raph recognizes now as an electro-pop song that always features on Donnie’s heavy rotation playlist when it’s his turn to pick the music in the car. 

“Don’t get too excited ‘cause that’s all you get from me, hey!” Leo pitches in loud enough that his voice carries over. 

“Yeah, I think you’re cute, but really you should know,” Donnie continues, signing along to the words for his riveted audience, “I just came to say hello.”

Gio mirrors the ‘hello’ sign, a B handshape held to his forehead and then pushed away, and when Donnie makes a show of applauding this major accomplishment, he makes Gio giggle, too.

It’s the first sound he’s made since they met this version of him, and it makes all activity grind to an abrupt halt in the kitchen, Mikey freezing comically in the middle of a taste-test. Leo looks as stunned as Raph feels. Splinter catches his breath, and Donnie flaps his hands like he has to shake out the pure joy he’s experiencing in this instant or else explode with it. 

“I told you guys I was the funniest,” Donnie whispers. 

Gio giggles again, clearly a fan of Donatello. He’s hanging off Donnie’s every word, an expression on his face that Raph is utterly familiar with—a little turtle amazed by every single thing bigger turtles do. Gio glances over at Raph, still smiling, checking to see that Raph is smiling, too. 

Raph’s cheeks hurt with how hard he’s grinning, as a matter of fact. 

“How’s that song go again, Dee?” he says. 

“I’m so glad you asked,” Donnie replies, and pairs his phone to the Bluetooth speakers. 

When the music starts and Raph scoops Gio up into his arms, Gio shrieks with high-pitched, bubbly laughter, sweeter than any snickerdoodle cookie. Raph spins around, dancing them over to the kitchen, where Donnie has already dragged his twin into an absurd rendition of the waltz that Mikey is sandwiched in the middle of. Splinter parks himself on a stool at the island and watches over them with gooey eyes. 

The garlic bread in the oven ends up burning around the edges before anyone thinks to save it, but Mikey carves away the bitter ends and gives the best piece to Gio. The shrimp alfredo is a success—Donnie’s plain alfredo received with ridiculous gratitude—and Gio eats until he’s nodding off at the table. 

“We’ll skip bathtime tonight, I think,” Splinter murmurs, wiping Gio’s face and hands with a washcloth instead. 

“Can we have a sleepover in the living room?” Mikey begs. “Please please please? We’ll be so careful, and he’ll love the string lights!”

“Only if you do not keep him awake with your shenanigans,” Splinter says sternly. “And only if Gray wants to go.”

“What do you say, Georgie? Sleepover?” Mikey says, crouching by Splinter’s chair to be face-to-face with the little guy in question. “We can turtle pile, and Donnie can bring the star projector out! His intro to astronomy TED Talk will put you right to sleep.”

“Offended scoff,” Donnie interjects. “I’ll have you know that presentation is peer-reviewed.”

“Believe me, Tello, we do know,” Leo says in the voice of a younger brother who has heard this argument enough times to recite it word for word. 

Gio nods yes with his fist, one of the simple signs he’s learned this evening, but it’s Raph he puts his arms out to, and Raph whose shoulder he pillows his tiny head on with a quiet sleepy turtle sound that shoots like an arrow straight into Raph’s core. 

He has no idea what Gio’s life looked like at this age. He thinks maybe it wasn’t anything like Raph’s childhood—maybe it was actually not very good at all. Someone taught Gio not to speak up, to watch everything closely and keep his hands to himself. Kids are sensitive to the moods around them, but it’s odd how Gio monitors expressions and tones like he’s measuring them against something in his head. It’s strange how careful he is. 

Raph thinks of growing up with his brothers, getting into trouble and shouting matches and scuffles, making a mess of the kitchen and flooding the bathroom and breaking dishes and TV remotes out of clumsiness or carelessness. They would shuffle shamefacedly when they got scolded, and sometimes tear up and sometimes throw a tantrum, but they never, ever looked at Splinter with any fear.

Gio, Raph thinks, grew up a different way. Wherever he was. Whoever he was with. They didn’t love him right. 

Feeling a hundred things all at once, each of them more prickly and upsetting than the last, Raph tucks Gio into the blanket Leo tossed over them before settling down and feeling the weight of his little brothers settling on and around him. It soothes the ache in his heart, and when Gio makes one final, sleepy click, it’s echoed on all sides by unthinking clicks and chirps, and by the rumble that starts up in Raph’s chest and rolls over the rest of them.  

[rainnietonic]

could you write a banhammer x ftm reader plssssss :3

YES OF CORSE!! I myself am a banhammer enjoyer too >:]

Banhammer x ftm!reader hc

Sorry if you wanted a drabble :(

Banhammer the man that you are… most definitely a cuddlebug- main love language is physical touch, though a close second is quality time.

Hes always so supportive with you- you want to cut your hair? He’ll help you make a appointment or give you advice if you do it yourself.

If you bind- let it be known that he will NOT let you bind for too long, if you start showing signs of discomfort he is making sure you haven’t been binding to long.

If you have gotten top surgery however! He’ll occasionally hold you by your chest and just run his fingers along the scars- muttering sweet nothings and just being affectionate.

He would BODYSLAM anyone who even dared to misgender you, a old friend who you haven’t seen since coming out? If they even so much as MUTTER any shes or hers Banhammer is glaring at them and about to fight.

Of course- unless its someone misgendering you on purpose- you calm down Banhammer reminding him that it was a mistake and to not attack this poor person.

MOVIE DATES- sorry random as hell but- i feel like he would love just sitting down on the couch and watching a movie together with some popcorn and a nest of blankets- sweet little things get him so… yea he giggles and kicks his legs, so what?

Introduced you to windforce- SO FAST. Shes a scary woman i tell you, but she would honestly like anyone who treats her son right- and would die to have someone to tell all the stories she has about Banhammer to.

If you do phights- hes gonna go SO easy on you, even if you can hold your own. Let it be known if theres a phight and you two on are opposed teams, Banhammers team is most likely losing.

Overall- great boyfriend, ten outta ten. (Windforce will ask when shes getting grandbabes- adopted or not she wants a little baby to spoil ROTTEN)

SORRY ITS SO SHORT, i sort of mixed in some ftm reader hc and normal banhammer x reader hc cuz its 12 at nught rn- HOPE YOU LIKE IT!!

[saveahorserideaneddie]

teaser for my newest wip, called: who’s gonna stop us (from waltzing back into rekindled flames)

synopsis: when buck wakes up having lost four years of his memories, he struggles to grapple with just how much has changed in his life in that time

==========

“Tell me about her?” Buck asked- Eddie looking up at him again. “I- I don’t remember why I would have stopped talking to you, but- but I want to fix that. So- so please, tell me about her. I want to know.”

He was being honest. Sure, it ripped him apart to know that Eddie had found someone- even though he knew it never would have been him- but he still loved Eddie. He was happy that Eddie had found someone who made him happy, and he wanted to know about her.

“You do?” Eddie asked, unsure.

“I do,” Buck smiled. “How did you two meet?”

“On the job actually,” Eddie huffed out a laugh. “We, uh- I went back to school and got my nursing degree and- and we met when I started working at the hospital in El Paso.”

“She a nurse?” Buck asked.

“A doctor,” Eddie corrected. “Anyway, we uh- we hit it off, and… and I wasn’t really looking for, well anything really, but… but eventually we started talking and that led to us going out, and…”

“You fell in love,” Buck said.

“Yeah,” Eddie smiled softly. “I did. We, uh- we got married after a couple years of dating, bought a bigger house- we even got a dog.”

“Really?” Buck let out a soft laugh.

“We did,” Eddie nodded. “His name is Teddy. Technically, he’s a service dog for Chris, but when he’s not on duty, he’s just a big cuddlebug.”

Buck smiled as he watched Eddie’s demeanor change talking about his family. His heart ached, of course, but seeing Eddie happy- happier than he ever remembers seeing him- was enough to make Buck happy.

“Do you have pictures?” Buck asked.

“Yeah, I do,” Eddie told him, pulling his phone out.

He tapped the screen a few times before handing Buck his phone- a photo of Chris and a brown and white border collie filling the screen. A man stood in the background, watching fondly.

“He’s adorable,” Buck smiled.

“Yeah,” Eddie smiled back. “Chris loves him to death.”

“Who’s that in the background?” Buck asked, looking up at Eddie.

A complicated expression crossed Eddie’s face.

“That’s, uh-” Eddie cleared his throat. “That’s Eric.”

“He your new best friend or something?” Buck joked, hoping to hide the disappointment in his voice.

“No, uh,” Eddie chuckled. “No, he’s- he’s my husband.”

Buck felt like time froze when those words left Eddie’s mouth. He felt a breath catch in his throat the moment Eddie spoke- his words registering as a slap in the face.

“Y- you-” Buck stammered. “Husband?”

Eddie let out a soft sigh, a wry smile on his face. “Like I said; you’re missing a lot of memories, Buck.”

==========

apologies for being evil but yall know i have to torture these gays somehow

(disclaimer: the fic IS buddie endgame)

[v4mpgutz]

⊹₊ ⋆ CUT & SEWN JUST FOR: @iheartethanlandry

₊˚꒰🪽꒱‧ SILK SLIPS : ethan landry, pink, romantic.

⊹˚. ౨ৎ 𝐆𝐎𝐋𝐃 𝐑𝐔𝐒𝐇, 𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐲

❝ everybody wants you, everybody wonders what it would be like to love you. ❞

headcanon tags — domestic ethan, fluff, dating ethan landry is like (blank), sick reader, dates, cuddles & kisses, love language, birthdays.

ethan landry is pink like dahlias, proud of you and your love and ever loyal to you.

dating ethan landry is like getting cosy under your covers with your favourite book, a candle lit and a cup of hot tea. he enjoys such activities with you as well. he loves when you sit cross-legged upon your quilt, his head in your lap as one hand stays on your book and the other plays with his hair.

taking care of you when you're sick makes him feel needed. he loves making you home remedies and tea and cuddling up to you when it's too hot for the blanket but too cold without.

ethan would lay down with you, his fingers gently massaging your scalp to ease any potential migraines as he presses soft kisses to your slightly chapped lips. he doesn't care if you're contagious, he's gonna look after you and you better not stop him!

dates with ethan are mostly spent at home. ethan has never been much of an extrovert so sometimes going out for dates makes him a little overwhelmed. however, on special occasions he always takes you to a fancy dinner.

when the two of you are at home, it's making homemade pasta or pizza — any kind of homecooked meal before settling on the couch with a cheesy rom-com.

when you go out, he'll book the reservation but the two of you always split the bill because you're both broke college students...... but! he'll never rush you to get ready and he'll help you put your shoes on. whether it be strapping up heels or tying laces, he's immediately doing it for you, no questions asked.

cuddles & kisses always have ethan shy. more often than not he gets too nervous to ask for cuddles if he wants them. he prefers to be the little spoon but if you want him to be the big spoon he won't tell you, he doesn't want to upset you in anyway :(

he initiates kisses often but they're very rarely super passionate. usually they're soft little pecks to your lips or anywhere else on your face. if you guys are making out and decide to get a little bit of tongue involved, there is usually some teeth clashing due to ethan's slight inexperience.

ethan's love language is physical touch. he constantly has his hands on you, not even in a sexual way. he feels comforted knowing that he can feel your soft skin right underneath his hand. when you're driving or he is, he's got a hand on your thigh as he gently rubs it. when you're on the couch, he's got his arm around you etc.

he is such a cuddlebug! he never wants to let you go and is especially reluctant to do so even if you need water or need to pee. eventually he lets go but there is more often than not lots of huffing and pouting about it.

on your birthday he'll absolutely spoil you. he's never been a super materialistic person so he's mainly doing things like cooking you breakfast, giving you a little crochet plushie he made or giving you a book you've read a million times but with notes in the margins.

don't get it twisted though! while he might not be materialistic, he definitely spends his fair share of money on you. the first year you two celebrated your birthday together, he got you a necklace with his initial on it, a little white heart gem dangling from it.

on his birthday all he wants to do is spend the day cuddled up with you while you watch his favourite comfort movies. he doesn't mind if you don't have the money to buy him a present, you being there is enough for him.

RIVER'S BLURB: omg i loved making this so so much! i hope you enjoy it. i added another mini headcanon with the whole crochet plushie because i feel like ethan would like crocheting!

[milliesfishes]

౨ৎ꣑ৎInscrutable౨ৎ꣑ৎ (Part Two of Impossible)

[fem reader] contains: war, rivalry, pregnancy angst, difficult childbirth, death, sexual themes. summary: you and billy navigate your relationship in the face of the lincoln county war pairing: billy the kid x fem reader author’s note: since the show isn't over yet, I had to take liberties with the ending, but tbh prolly would have done so anyways. enjoy and I apologize in advance. this was a labor of love, and I'm very proud of this story <3 Pinterest Board Spotify Playlist

You had never before known bliss.

But lying here, bare and soft in the afterglow of lovemaking, you found it over and over. Billy was half lying on you, his face in your shoulder, panting with his right hand knotted with yours. Your other hand lazily came up to rest on the back of his head, elbow bent, fingers dragging through his hair once.

He lifted his head after a moment, a sleepy smile on his face. "How ya feelin' Daisy?"

"Mm," you sighed, your eyes half closed. "Really good."

"Really good, huh?" he propped his chin on your shoulder.

"Really, really good," you affirmed, and he nudged his nose against you.

Billy gazed at you, the glow from the morning light through your window settling on him. He lifted himself up to hover over you, leaning on his forearms and just looking at you. By now you were used to this; he did it often after sex.

His bright blue eyes drank you in, your smooth skin, your wonderfully messy hair, the haze that had settled over your face. He ducked down to kiss your nose lightly. "So pretty." Another kiss, but this time to the space between your eyes. "Prettiest girl in the west."

You smiled as you always did at his affections but lifted your head impatiently. "Pretty sure I look the same every time."

"Mm, gotta make sure just in case," Billy teased, kissing your cheek, then your jaw. "Sides, even if ya do, you're pretty enough to look at over-" he kissed your neck. "-'n over-" he bit at the spot playfully and you squealed. "-'n over again."

You wiggled a bit under him, looking up at him sleepily. "I wanna cuddle."

"Cuddlebug," he smiled, resting his chin between your breasts. "Let me look atcha just a little more Daisy?"

He was giving you puppy dog eyes and you giggled, unable to say no. Especially when he was so handsome, bare and smooth against your own bare and smooth body. "We're gonna be cuddling for a million hours after."

"A million it is," he grinned, pressing little kisses to your chest, nosing under your breast and kissing you there too. "Mm, dunno how 'm s'posed to ever leave ya."

"Good thing it's your day off," you smiled, and he nodded, lifting his head just slightly.

"Thank goodness for that." Billy was kissing your tummy now, his lips parted and leaving little wet patches on your skin. You squealed in delight as his kisses got lower and lower until he was right between your legs.

"Mmph, Billy," you protested lightly, sitting up on your elbows. "Wanna cuddle."

He gave you a chaste little kiss below your belly button. "Lemme take care of ya one time and then we can cuddle Daisy." You mulled it over, them nodded, bending your knees a bit and spreading them a bit so he had better access.

Nipping at your inner thigh, he looked up at you like he always did, checking in. "'Kay?"

You nodded, your hand falling into his hair and tugging lightly. "You're going so slow."

"Can ya blame me for wantin' to take m' time with m' angel?" Billy gave twin kisses to both your thighs. "Last night..."

"Fast," you mused, eyes hazing over dreamily.

He laughed, squeezing your legs and throwing one over his shoulder. "'xactly baby. Fast. Wanna go slow 'n make it good for you, sweet."

"Last night was good for me," you insisted, and he grinned, resting his chin on your tummy.

"'m glad. This mornin's gonna be good for ya too," he nosed a kiss into your belly button, making you giggle.

"Okay, okay," you smiled, leaning back against the pillows and closing your eyes, one arm flung lazily above your head and the other in his hair.

Billy wrapped his arms around your thighs because he knew you'd wiggle around. "Atta girl. Gimme a-"

"Hey little, can ya-" Joe's voice got louder as he approached, opening the door wide. The second he saw the scene, he jumped back, closing his eyes. "The hell?"

Billy flung his body up and over yours to cover it from view, ignoring the fact that his entire behind was on display. "Ever knock Joe?"

Your brother seemed traumatized by what he'd seen, and he, with one hand over his eyes, blindly reached for the door handle, shutting it firmly.

Waiting until his footsteps were heard going down the stairs, Billy sunk his head into your neck and laughed, low and deep. You couldn't help but join in, tilting your head back, your arms over his shoulders. "Poor Joe."

"Ya'd think he'd know to knock by now," Billy said, muffled into your skin. "What is this, the fifth time he's caught us?"

"We've never been completely naked before though," you got out, flinging an arm over your eyes briefly. "I can't believe my brother saw me like this."

"I'm not thrilled 'bout it either," Billy mumbled, lifting his head. "Only I'm s'posed to see ya like this."

"Seeing as it's Joe I don't think it'll happen again, don't you worry," you smiled, tracing a hand over his shoulder. "Maybe this will be the incident to get him to watch where he walks."

Billy laughed lightly, kissing your collarbone. "Always makin' things happier ain'tcha Daisy?"

You sat up with a sheepish smile, and he sat up, pulling you to sit on his thighs, holding you lightly by your own. "I should probably go downstairs so he doesn't think we're doing anything."

"Mm, but we are doing things," Billy mumbled, his eyes roving over your bare body, thumbs stroking your hip bones. He laid down against the mattress, eyes glued to you.

Smiling a bit, you leaned down to kiss him softly, your hair falling over him like a curtain. "I'll just see to the garden for a moment and then we can go right back to this." You sat up again and he grinned, fingers of one hand sliding between the crease where your thigh was pressed against your calf. "You still owe me cuddles."

"We can't just cuddle right now?" Billy wondered, bending his knees, the action making your bottom slide down so you were seated upright on his stomach, back resting against his legs.

"We'll wait until Joe goes into town," you said, now holding his hands in both of yours. "I don't want to make him more uncomfortable."

Billy heaved a dramatic sigh, but he nodded, bringing one of your hands to his mouth to kiss. "Alright sweet. Whatever ya say." You knew that even though he wanted to hold you, his friendship with Joe was too important to him to ignore how he was feeling.

You got off of Billy, redressing in what you'd worn last night. He sat on the edge of the bed, bringing you to sit in his lap so he could lace up your half stay. Kissing your shoulder when he was done, he laid back in bed, pulling the sheet partly over himself as he lazily watched you put your dress on, tying the little bow at the front. "Pretty," he called, smiling when you came over to sit by him again.

Smiling sweetly, you leaned down and kissed his forehead, lingering there for a moment. He grasped your hand in his, unable to stop holding onto you for even a moment when he was able.

There was a knock at the door and you looked back. Joe's voice was muffled through the wood. "Can I come in?"

"We're decent," you called, and Billy chuckled. Joe entered cautiously, stopping at one step through the threshold.

"Can I talk to Billy for a minute?" he asked, looking at you, and you nodded.

"I was just about to go into the garden for a little bit anyways." You stood, squeezing Billy's hand before letting go and leaving. "Don't be too long!"

As you left the room, you could hear both Billy's laugh and Joe saying, "Would ya put some pants on?"

Hand grasped in yours, Billy was leading you through the woods, his expression eager. He was wearing that blue striped shirt you loved so much, and you could hardly take his eyes off him he looked so good.

When he'd come to you today, you could tell he'd taken a bath, maybe even shaved a little although there was a little bit of scruff still left, just the way you liked it. His hair looked soft and fluffy like it always did after he washed it. You longed to run your fingers through it, but waited, knowing you'd likely get the chance once you got wherever you were going.

Billy pushed aside a branch, and you saw a lake, blue and clear with trees lining the edges. There was a little dock on your side, and he confidently pulled you over to it, close to the end. The sky was cloudless, and it was nice and warm. You were glad you'd worn something pretty to match the view. A blue dress- one of your favorites.

Wrapping his arms around your waist, Billy rested his chin on top of your head, taking it all in for a moment. There were no words between you two, just the magnificence of the open space.

"I didn't know there was a lake near here," you finally murmured, the side of your face resting on his chest.

"Found out 'bout it from some 'f the boys who like to fish here," Billy explained, still holding you close. "Thought it might remind ya of when we used to swim back when."

You giggled, remembering. "Joe and you would always throw me in."

"Ya made it real easy," Billy teased, kissing the side of your head.

Shaking your head good-naturedly, you leaned against him, looking out again. "It's so beautiful."

"Is," Billy agreed, pulling back and looking at you, his eyes soft, that look he always seemed to have around you.

Then he separated himself fully, only holding onto your hands and looking over you with a peculiar expression on his face.

"What is it?" you tilted your head, smiling in confusion.

Billy swallowed once, seeming nervous. "Daisy..."

"Billy?" you were a little worried now.

"I've loved ya a long time, Daisy," he said, squeezing your hands. "You're the sweetest, kindest, prettiest girl I'll ever meet. I always wanna protect ya...I always wanna have ya near."

You smiled, touched by his words but still wary of what he was leading up to.

"I know we ain't been together in this way for a while, but I spent so much time pining over ya I feel like it's been forever," he smiled. "You're the best thing in my life. I never wanna let go of ya."

Billy let go of one of your hands, fumbling in his pocket for something. When he found it and pulled it out, your eyes went wide as saucers. A little golden ring.

You gasped and stepped back in surprise, forgetting you were at the edge of the dock. In one moment you were upright. The next you were hitting the water with a splash.

Muffled from underwater, you heard Billy shout something. You heard him jump into the water, and he dragged you up to the surface, his arms around your waist holding you up. Once your head was above water, you gasped for air, coughing a bit.

“You okay, sweetheart? Talk to me!” Billy demanded anxiously, his arms tight around you. His hair was sticking to his forehead in little curls, and his shirt was completely soaked through as he treaded water, holding you both up.

The soaked state of you was the furthest thing from your mind. “You want to marry me?”

Billy stared at you. “Baby ya just fell in- “

“I’m okay,” you interrupted, grasping his arms. “Billy…” you looked into his bright blue eyes, searching them intently. “You want to marry me?”

He gave a little laugh, squeezing his hands at your sides. “Yeah. Yeah, Daisy I wanna marry ya.”

A smile spread over your face and you threw your arms around his neck, sending him toppling back underwater. Your lips found his, kissing him excitedly.

“Mmph!” Billy spluttered, bringing the two of you back up. He laughed against your lips, his hand coming to the back of your head. “Is that a yes, then?”

“Yes!” you squealed, burying your face in his neck. “Yes, yes, yes!”

Billy grabbed your chin and brought his lips to yours, the kiss full of joy and pure love. You hugged him tightly, nudging your nose against his. “I love you.”

He sealed your words with another kiss. “I love ya too, Daisy.”

Billy suddenly lifted his head. “Shit, the ring-“

“Oh!” He must have dropped it when he dove in to get you. You swam up to the dock, and the both of you propped your elbows up on the wood, searching for the little gold ring.

He spotted it, reaching over to grasp it and leaving a trail of water from his arm spattered over the grainy surface. “Aha!” Then, turning his attention to you, he reached for your hand resting on the wood and slid the ring on, the smile not leaving his face the entire time.

You held your hand up, admiring the way it looked on your finger. Your own smile was uncontainable. “It’s beautiful, Billy.”

“Was my mama’s,” he explained, and you looked up at him tenderly. “Carried it with me all these years.”

You looked at him sweetly, throwing your arms back around him and sending the both of you tumbling back in with a splash. He laughed as you kissed him, holding you close and thumbing the side of your cheek.

Billy eventually hauled you out of the water, and the two of you rested on your backs in the sun to dry off. He held your hand, leaning on his side and keeping his eyes on you.

“My love,” he breathed, kissing your nose. “My Daisy.”

The wedding came and went. It was a decidedly joyous affair, and you enjoyed every second of it.

Truthfully it was all a blur- you saw Billy's face at the alter with you, but not much else. He looked the happiest you'd ever seen him in that moment. As if his sole purpose in life had been to marry you and now it was coming to fruition.

The wedding night however, you remembered every minute of.

Joe had decided that after the wedding he'd move out of the house and into the nearby camp the Seven Rivers gang was staying at. You'd balked a bit at that, saying he didn't have to, but he'd insisted.

"I like livin' with the boys," he said, grinning. "'Sides, I don't wanna hafta listen to you 'n Billy goin' at it all times 'f the day."

That'd made you blush, and he'd laughed. "You'll be a married couple, little. 'S fine. We'll see each other all the time 'nd I'll be workin' with Billy. Just the same but we all live with different people."

You'd smiled at that. And to his credit, he'd been right.

It was ecstasy, living that way with Billy on the ranch, all by yourselves. You were bookkeeping just like you had before the fire, and he would do little things around to help out the ranch hands every now and then.

For a long while, everything was just short of perfect. You loved your life more than you ever thought you would. Waking up every morning in Billy's arms, managing the ranch...it was heaven.

Sometimes when you were supposed to be working, you found yourself reminiscing about what you'd done the day before or daydreaming about being with him when he got home. It all felt like something you'd only imagined, not real life.

Billy was slowly moving up higher in the gang ranks, as the man they were working for- Major Murphy- had taken a particular interest in him. You'd only met him a few times, but you knew he was powerful, and he paid Billy well.

Your husband grew a little more uneasy as he got closer to the top, but he didn't complain much. Only on late nights when the two of you were cozied in each other's arms would he confess that he didn't like that the work he was doing had become less and less honest.

Still, because he was loyal to the gang, Billy kept at it. It only endeared him to you more. You were happily, blissfully in love with him, more and more every day.

One day, he came home and immediately put his arms around you, stroking your back and pressing a gentle hand to your lower belly. "How you doin' baby?"

You looked up at him, confused. "I'm alright...is something wrong?"

He pulled back a bit, looking down at you, a little confused. "You're feelin' good?"

Nodding slowly, you searched his eyes. He tilted his head, taking his hat off. "You ain't on your monthly?"

You shook your head.

"Huh." Billy scratched his head, keeping one arm around you. "Thought it was the second week 'f the month."

Thinking back, you realized he was right. Your monthly did usually come on this week. But your bleeding had always been fairly irregular. You didn't pay it much more thought because now he was picking you up and spinning you around and asking about your day.

That was the first strange thing.

The next occurred when you came outside after working with the books for hours, stretching and sighing as you got some fresh air on the porch. You saw Billy out mending a fence, and you leaned against the railing of the porch steps to admire the view.

He spotted you and ran right up, unbuttoning his shirt as he did. It was a hot day, and he was sweating...a lot. It only made your heart beat faster for him.

"Hiya Daisy," he greeted, pulling you in for a nice long kiss. His shirt was half unbuttoned, and you slid your fingers between, feeling his warm, slick skin. "How's m' girl?"

"Good," you murmured happily against his lips, tugging at his shirt.

He grinned through the kisses, his big hands sliding two directions. One went to your cheek, the other to your breast, palming it and telling you exactly what he wanted.

But the sudden sensitivity there had your hand flying up. Billy frowned, pulling back. "Whatsa matter Daisy?"

You were covering his hand over your breast, stiffened. "I'm...just a little sore there...is all."

Billy rubbed his hand slightly over your breast, brow furrowed. "Everythin' alright?"

You nodded slowly, then turned back to him, smiling. "Yeah. Yeah, it's okay." He pressed a little concerned kiss to the corner of your mouth, then continued what he'd been doing before, his hand moving to your waist instead.

That was the second strange thing.

Then, there was a day when you and Billy were out for a ride, laughing and talking as you always did. Usually on those days you'd spend hours on horseback, but after a single hour you felt exhausted.

Of course, Billy noticed, pulling the reins on his horse when he saw you slowing down. "Daisy?"

You nodded tiredly, still trying to keep up. "Mhm?"

He came over to you, his horse facing the opposite direction as yours. "You feelin' alright darlin'?"

"Yeah," you tried to smile, pretend nothing was amiss. You desperately wanted to ride; you hadn't been able to in so long. Not with him being so busy and you in the like. "Yeah I'm fine. C'mon."

Billy gave you a look. "You're tired."

"I'm good," you were trying to convince yourself too. "I wanna keep going."

"Daisy you're gonna wear yourself out," Billy shook his head, reaching for your face and studying you. "Let's go back. You've been so tired lately."

And you realized then: you had. All the way home, you went over the odd symptoms you'd been having. Exhaustion, no bleeding, sore breasts...

It hit you like a lightning strike.

You looked over at Billy, riding contently beside you. He didn't seem suspicious of anything, just concerned that you weren't feeling your best.

Looking back ahead of you, you swallowed. Best go see the doctor to make sure. Before telling anybody.

The next day, after doing so you found yourself in a state of shock.

As you'd ridden home from your visit, you'd barely focused on where you were going, grateful your horse didn't need much guidance to get back.

Hands shaking, eyes wet, breath unsteady.

Before you knew it you were up in your favorite tree on the ranch, frozen stiff and staring into the leaves. It was a place of refuge in a way. All you could hear was the echoed confirmation of the doctor. And all you could think about was how everything would change now. The life you'd gotten used to, the life you had worked so hard to make constant. Just when you were content it was upheaved again.

When you heard Billy's voice calling your name it startled you. You didn't know how long you'd been up here, but you knew it certainly wasn't so long that it was now the time he usually came home.

Eyes wide with surprise, you grabbed hold of the branch beside you, steadying yourself. It wouldn't be long before he found you, and you needed to compose yourself fast.

As expected, his head popped up from the branches and he smiled when he saw you. "Knew ya'd be up here Daisy."

You forced a smile. "You're home so early."

He grinned, climbing up so he could bend over and kiss you. "Missed my wife. Wasn't much to do today so I thought I'd come surprise ya."

Nodding, you moved over on the branch so he could sit, wrapping his arms around you. "How's m' girl? Hm? Ya doin' alright?"

"Yes," you blurted out, and he gave you a funny look.

"Glad to hear it, sweetheart," he said, his hand absentmindedly stroking up and down your arm. "Anythin'...anythin' happen today I should know about?"

"Why, did you hear something?" you looked up at him, eyes wide.

Billy chuckled and tilted his head. "No...just makin' conversation baby." But now he studied you inquisitively. "Ya sure everything's good?"

For a moment you stared at him, your secret weighing in on you. You wanted to tell him, you did. But the shock of it had rendered you useless for any logic. Slowly, you nodded. "Yes."

He chucked you gently under the chin. "Yeah?"

"Yes," your tone was becoming less convincing by the minute.

Bringing his hand underneath your chin and looking you in the eye, Billy gave you a look. "Daisy?"

You shook your head, avoiding his gaze and starting to climb down from the tree. "I'm alright," you called up, jumping to the ground. Billy followed you, scratching the back of his head.

"Sweetheart, did somethin' happen?" Billy asked, following you down the hill into the meadow. "Ya seem..."

"Seem what?" you turned around suddenly, eyes wide.

He stopped in his tracks in front of you. "Is this about everythin' with Murphy? I know it's been tough and I've been workin' long hours, but I promise I-"

"No," you shook your head reassuringly. "No, it's not that."

"Did I do somethin'?" Billy questioned, taking your hand

"It's nothing you did-" you cut yourself off, thinking about it. "Well..."

"How can I fix it?" he asked immediately, his other hand finding yours. He pulled you into him, your stomachs pressed together with a secret between them. "Tell me what to do Daisy."

"It's not...really...a fix...able thing," you said slowly, drawing out the word fixable.

"C'mon baby I-"

"I'm pregnant!" you burst out, your heart pounding.

Billy paused, and you watched the news wash over him. He searched your eyes, as if looking for confirmation. You nodded ever so slightly and he took a tiny step back, looking down at your flat tummy.

After a second, his face broke into a smile, and he settled his hands over your waist, lifting you up and spinning you around, your legs wrapping around his middle to steady yourself. His gun belt pressed into your bottom, and he secured one arm around you as he brought your hand to his mouth, kissing it gently. "My love." Billy wrapped his other arm around your waist and held you to him, peering at you from under this hat. "Are you sure?"

"I went to see the doctor today," you said softly, knocking his brim up so you could look at him properly.

Billy grinned when you moved his hat but faltered when he saw your expression. "Hey. Daisy whatsa matter?"

You just folded your arms around his neck and rested your face there silently. Eyes closed, you tried your hand at hiding, but he'd always been able to see through you.

"Oh, sweetheart," he murmured, hugging you tight to him. "My angel." His words were soft and sweet, knowing you needed him right then. Billy drew your chin up to look at him. "We're gonna go back to the house, yeah? We're gonna have kisses 'n cuddles. Doctor's orders."

"What doctor?" you asked softly.

"Doesn't matter," he pressed his forehead to yours. Then he remedied, "A very good doctor."

You closed your eyes and smiled, leaning against him. "I'm sure."

Billy rocked you back and forth a little bit. "There ya go, sweetheart." You started to try and get down, but he merely shifted you into a bridal carry. As he walked you back to the house, he said, "We're gonna relax cause we both work too hard, 'specially you, and just know-" he kissed your forehead. "Everythin's gonna be okay. No matter what."

When he was saying it this way, you couldn't help but believe him. Billy took you home and had you under the covers in his arms in no time. You were nestled between his legs, your bottom in the cradle of his thighs. His hands were loosely resting on your stomach, absentmindedly stroking up and down. He was pressing a flurry of kisses to wherever he could reach. Your cheek, your neck, your shoulder. With each soft kiss, you felt your body melting against his.

"There ya go, Daisy," he said against your neck. "There's my girl."

Billy brought his arms up to rest on your collarbone, his head leaning against yours. You sighed softly, your mind weary.

"How d'ya wanna go 'bout this?" he asked quietly. "I know this is a big thing. Maybe the biggest thing."

"It's not that I don't want a baby," you whispered, and he nodded. "I love you. I knew this would happen eventually but..." you closed your eyes. "I'm scared. It's just so unexpected."

"It is," he nodded, squeezing you once, his nose squished against your cheek.

"But..." you took in a deep breath. "I love you. And we'll more than make it work. We're having a baby..." your hand fell to your stomach, rubbing it softly.

"We're havin' a baby," he kissed your cheek and covered your hand with his.

His gentle words and reassurance warmed you from the inside out, and you nearly felt like you were glowing. Turning to face him, you pressed your lips softly against his. "You gave me this," you held his hand to your stomach. "This life we've built...I've never been happier. I never thought I would be this happy."

"My Daisy," he murmured, stroking your cheek. "I'd give ya the world if I could." Billy rested his hands on both sides of your face. "And I'd do anything to protect what we have."

"Daisy?"

You perked up when you heard Billy's voice, abandoning your mending and standing when he entered the room. "Billy?"

He came through the door, grabbing you around the waist and dipping you into a kiss. "How's my beautiful wife?" he asked as you giggled.

"I'm good," you smiled, looking up at him adoringly. "I wasn't expecting you until later."

Billy thumbed the side of your face. "We were let off early today." He lifted you, rubbing his hand on your midsection. "How's baby?"

"Good as far as I can tell," you leaned up to kiss him again. "She misses her daddy."

"Ah, I know mama's been missin' daddy too," Billy nosed a kiss into your hair. "Feel like it's been forever since I got to really talk to ya."

"You've been working so hard," you murmured, wrapping your arms around his neck and nudging your nose against his. "Wake up before I do, come back before I'm asleep..."

"I'm sorry sweetheart," he muttered into your hair, rocking the two of you back and forth. "I'm sorry I haven't been around. Murphy's got us workin' long hours." He kissed your forehead. "Keepin' me away from my girl...while you're growin' baby at home..."

"It's okay," you pressed your lips to his cheek. "You work so hard for us. We love you very much for it."

He smiled wearily, catching your lips in a brief kiss. "Daisy you're an angel. Best of wives..." Billy rubbed your tummy, feeling the slight swell of it. "Y'know, the reason we got off early is cause there's a party tonight Murphy wants all of us to go to," he brought his hand to your cheek. "Now, if ya don't wanna go I'll skip it and stay home with you but-"

"I wanna go!" you said excitedly, bouncing on your heels and squeezing his hands. "It's been so long since I've done anything like that and I haven't seen anyone in weeks-!"

"Woah, woah, slow down darlin'," Billy laughed, squeezing you as you jumped into his arms. "Don't get baby all worked up. 'm glad you're excited though sweetheart."

You kissed his cheek excitedly and went upstairs to find a dress to wear, leaving Billy chuckling to himself in the kitchen.

That night on Billy's arm, you were elated and energetic, greeting each of the members of the gang with enthusiasm. You practically tackled Joe when you hugged him, which he found funny. But you couldn't help it- it had been weeks since you'd seen any of the gang between their hard work and your pregnancy.

Though you were excited, you did not fail to notice how on-edge Billy seemed to be. He was slightly stiff, making sure not to let go of you for even a second. When you asked him about it, holding onto his arm lovingly, he merely patted your arm. "Just worryin' Daisy. Nothin' to fret about."

You frowned up at him. "About-"

Suddenly an older gentleman cut in, whispering something to Billy, who kissed your temple and excused himself, stepping to the side. You watched him concernedly, and Joe came up beside you. "Everythin' okay?"

"I don't know," you watched Billy talked to the man. "Joe... what exactly is Billy to Murphy?"

Joe shrugged, following your eyes to your husband. "The old man likes havin' a famous outlaw on his side. Dunno if Billy likes the jobs we get sent on."

"Why not?" you looked up at your brother. Billy had never mentioned anything like that to you before.

He sighed, looking down and then back up at you. "To be honest I ain't that big of a fan of it either. Murphy's havin' issues with several farmers in the area. He's demandin' they get off their land...it's messy stuff little."

Your brow furrowed and you looked back at Billy. "And he...?"

"He translates for us since a lotta' them only speak Spanish," Joe said. "I do some too, but not at all as good as him. It's gettin' bad. Jesse's aboutta get ruthless with 'em, and that ain't Billy's style at all."

The farmers...Mexican farmers...you knew Billy's sense of justice was heightened when it came to the Hispanic people in the area, since they were nearly always treated unfairly. That explained why he was so on edge- it must have been uncomfortable to be in the same room as people who stood for what he was against.

"Why wouldn't he tell me?" you breathed, your eyes not straying from your husband.

"Probably doesn't wanna worry ya," Joe said wearily. "Wants to provide for his girl...'specially since you're in a family way."

This information washed over you and you turned back to him. "Why do you stay? If you don't like it?"

"Murphy pays good money," Joe half smiled. "He's gotta be the only one around who's gonna hire a bunch of outlaws."

You nodded, understanding instantly, but still upset at the prospect of what they were doing. "Those poor farmers..."

"Yeah, it's not lookin' good," Joe said distractedly, looking up. "Hey, Billy's headin' off."

Instantly you looked up, watching him walk over to an open area. Someone shouted something, and people began to gather around him. Confused, you grabbed Joe's hand and pulled him over, pushing through the crowd to the front to see what was going on.

Billy was loading a gun that had been sitting on a table to the left of him. You were about to walk over and ask what he was doing, but Joe put his arm in front of you, shaking his head. "Look." He nodded at the scene in front of Billy, consisting of targets.

Your blood went cold as you put the pieces together. Oh no.

Your husband aimed and began to shoot, hitting every target with exact precision. He finished with the pistol and picked up a rifle, once again leaving no target unchecked. When he was done, the nearby shed was on fire and all the bottles had bullets in them.

All through the demonstration, the people around you made impressed noises, but you stood still in horror. You knew him, and you knew more than anything that he didn't like being put on display. His 'Billy the Kid' persona was the exact opposite of the way he wanted to be viewed. You wondered how he'd even been convinced to do this.

Dropping the rifle back on the table, Billy pushed through the crowd, and you watched him go. Looking back at Joe with wide eyes, you whispered, "What the hell was that?"

His expression was grim. "You asked what Billy is to Murphy, little. That was it."

You squeezed Joe's hand, then went to find Billy, searching the room for him. When he was nowhere to be found, you opened the door to the back porch. There he stood, leaning against the railing and looking at the sky.

Shutting the door on the party, you went to him, standing close. Your words were quiet. "I'm sorry you had to do that."

He shook his head, taking his hat off and looking back at you. "'m sorry you had to see it."

You went to him, taking his face in your hands and shaking your head, immediately knowing what he was thinking. "Billy...Billy look at me."

Meeting his eyes, you could see the dead weight in them, and you shook your head some more, kissing his cheek, then his other one. "You're not what they say you are."

"Seems like I am," he said quietly, and you pressed your forehead to his. "Havin' me put on a fuckin' show..."

"I know," you breathed, kissing his nose. "I know it feels that way. But you're not. You've never been."

"I've killed, Daisy," he whispered, taking your hands in his and removing them from his face. "I ain't a good man...I ain't..."

"Billy," you held one of his hands to your heartbeat, setting your other one on his. Your eyes pleaded with him to snap out of it. He took in deep breaths as he looked at you.

"I don't deserve ya, baby," he said softly, and you squeezed his hand.

"Don't say that," you breathed, squeezing again. "Please Billy..."

He hung his head. "Daisy..."

"C'mon," you tugged on his hand. "C'mon, let's get outta here."

Your husband was quiet the whole way home. It was only once the two of you were up in the bedroom that he said anything.

"I didn't think that was gonna happen," Billy murmured, hanging his head.

You removed his hat, setting it on the dresser, and sat down with him on the bed, taking his hands in yours. When he wouldn't look up at you, you brought your hands to his face, feeling his scratchy stubble underneath your fingers and turning his head.

"You aren't a bad man," you said quietly, moving closer to him, looking him straight in the eyes. "What you've atoned for doesn't define you."

"I've done such horrible things Daisy," he lifted his hands to your wrists. "I don't deserve any of this...not one bit of it..."

"Please don't say that," you whispered, nudging your nose against his. You kissed his forehead softly, smoothing his hair. "My love..."

"I've never deserved ya Daisy," he sniffed, looking down. "You're too good...sweetest girl in the whole world..."

"Oh-" you wrapped your arms around him, bringing him to lie down with you, so the two of you were lying facing each other on the bed. You took one of his hands so it was resting between the two of you, fingers intertwining. "Billy. I love you. And-" you put his hand on your belly, which was swelling slightly with new life. "And baby loves you. We know you're a good man. The best of men."

"Daisy," he rubbed your belly slightly. "You're good...you always were good..."

"And so are you," you insisted, your hand covering his. "Would a bad man be laying here with me? Would a bad man kiss me so soft or love me like you do? A bad man would've up and left the second he found out I was having his child. But you didn't 'cause you're a good man."

Your words washed over Billy, and he just looked at you for a moment. Then he brought your hand to his lips, kissing it for a long time.

Reaching for him, you pulled him into you, and he rested his head right beside your chest, burrowing into it a little. One of his hands remained on your belly, and he rubbed up and down, the motion soothing to the both of you.

You kissed the top of his head again, your hand trailing up and down his back. Quiet for a moment, you considered your words before you said them.

"Joe told me a little about Murphy," you said quietly, and Billy lifted his head.

"What about?" he asked, stroking your belly as he sat up, looking down at you.

"He told me about the farmers," you said, and Billy sighed, shaking his head.

"Don't want ya to worry 'bout that," he muttered, kissing your belly and smoothing his hand over it. "You just needa focus on growin' baby."

"I am worried," you sat up, reaching for him and sniffling. "Billy...I hate that you have to stay with that awful man and do what he wants."

"Shh," Billy squeezed your hand. "Daisy, you're gettin' yourself all worked up. I promise there ain't nothin' to it."

"I know you wanted honest work, Billy," you shook your head, your breathing growing quick. "Joe told me...oh-! I can't stand how hard it must be for you. And with the act he made you put on tonight-"

"Daisy, Daisy," he pushed you to lie down, sliding his arm under you so you'd rest on his shoulder. You clung to one of his suspenders, and he rested his head against yours. "Baby. You'd best not worry 'bout that in any way my love."

"But you're unhappy," you reached to cup his face, your fingers tracing up and down. "You're unhappy...and he's making you think such awful things about yourself..."

"Mustn't fret," Billy kissed your hairline, his body sheltering yours. "Ain't good for baby." He trailed his fingers up and down your midsection. "Won't ya look at me for a second?"

You did, your eyes meeting his bright blue ones. A smile betrayed his serious expression, and he soothed his hand over your tummy. "Oh, ya sweet." Billy kissed your hair. "I made a promise to provide for ya. You 'n baby. If I gotta hit a few targets for rich folk to do that I will."

"It's not just that," you said softly, reaching for his hand and playing with the fingers, sliding his wedding ring up and down. "It's the farmers. The work. You were so excited to be doing something legal, but now it's...it's..."

Billy shook his head. "Baby..." he picked up your hand, bringing it to the handkerchief around his neck, knowing holding it always calmed you. When you were clinging to it, he took your face in his hands. "I would do anything to keep you 'n baby safe. You're my family. I have ya, and I'll fight for ya, and keep ya safe 'n comfortable for all my days." He kissed your nose lightly. "You...and our child. That's all that matters to me."

You wanted to protest, but seeing the look on his face, you kept quiet. He was noble and true, doing a job he hated so he could protect you. It irked you, but you didn't say a thing, nestling into his arms for the rest of the night

All the good in the world. You wanted Billy to have all the good in the world.

You did your best to give it to him in your own way since you knew he loved you so. The both of you felt it separately, you knew, that after all the time you'd spent wanting for each other there was a lot of making up to do. Even unconsciously the both of you clung to each other when you were together. It was a natural response- you needed each other so.

Mind, body, and soul, you'd given yourself to him, even before you were officially together. From the first time sleeping together on, you were bound to him even if you had pretended not to be to try and save your tender heart.

Now that you wore his ring on your finger and had his baby in your belly, you were determined more than ever to bring happiness to him just as he did you.

All of this was the reason you met with Joe in town one day, in addition to whisperings on the horizon you'd heard, and a business card found in Billy's shirt pocket when you were washing it.

Holding up the card, you leaned over the table toward your brother. "Tunstall?"

Frowning, Joe reached out for it. "Where did you-?"

You held the card away, raising an eyebrow. "You do know. Who's he?"

He leaned back in his seat. "Ya shouldn't be meddlin' little. Billy-"

"He's my husband," you insisted, looking at him with determined eyes. "And you're my brother. If working for Murphy is taking a toll on you it's my business."

Joe sat on the edge of his chair, elbows on the table as he looked at you under the brim of his hat. "I know you're tryin' to be sweet. Ya always have been, I know it's your way. But if Billy's decided not to tell ya about it I can't go tellin' ya."

You shook your head, staring at Joe firmly. "You're my brother."

"He's your husband."

"I'm your sister."

"He's my best friend."

"I'm his wife."

"You're his wife," Joe rested his palm on the wooden surface of the table. "And you're my sister. Can't go tellin' ya things like this. If I send you into a frenzy Billy'll tan my hide no matter how good of friends we are."

"If you care for him at all, you'll tell me," you pleaded, sitting up straight. "I only want to help. I want to support him and you both. You're miserable under Murphy with all the horrible work he makes you do."

"I toldja 'bout that, little," Joe protested. "Ain't nobody gonna hire outlaws-"

"Then who's Tunstall?" you asked, meeting his eyes.

Joe looked like he'd been backed into a corner. He pursed his lips, exhaling through his nose and seeming to give up. "Tunstall's a rival businessman. From what Billy an' I can tell, he's tryna make things right with a lotta farmers 'round here. But that also means Murphy ain't a fan of him."

"And he wants you to join him?" you questioned, leaning in interestedly.

"Badly," Joe nodded, slinging his arm over the back of his chair. "He's gunnin' for Billy cause of his reputation and any of the gang he can get to come with him. But..."

You furrowed your brow. "What?"

Joe scratched his neck. "Little...if we join him, it could cause a full-on riot. Some say war. Murphy don't take kindly to people leavin' him. His people in the Circle could make things bad."

"Murphy's part of the Circle?" your eyes were wide.

"Goddamn, he ain't told you a thing," Joe took off his hat, tossing it on the table. "Yeah, Murphy 'n his crew are Circle. Don't wanna go 'gainst that. 'Sides, I know Billy doesn't wanna leave Jesse after all they've been through, and I feel the same way."

"Jesse wouldn't go with you?" you tried to put the pieces together.

"No," Joe shook his head. "He likes bein' cutthroat too much. And he likes the money. Tunstall's offerin' more but the work is on the opposite side. That ain't somethin' Jesse's gonna go for."

All this information sunk in, and you slumped back in your chair. Joe pursed his lips, nodding. "Now ya see?" he sighed. "I know Billy likes the idea of honest work for good people and I do too. But the consequences might be too much."

"No," you shook your head. "I don't understand. From what it sounds like Murphy 'n Tunstall are on the verge of a war anyways. And if money isn't the issue..."

"Little..." Joe ran a hand over his face. He gritted his teeth, then looked up at you. "I really ain't supposed to tell ya this. But if it'll get ya to see our side I will." He reached across the table and took your hand. "All you said's well and good. But...for Billy and honestly for me too, it's you that's holdin' us back."

There was silence between you for a moment. Your lips parted slightly, and you tried to fathom it. "Me?"

"You," Joe nodded, squeezing your fingers. "Look." He held your hand with both of his now. "I know if I had a sweetheart who was havin' my baby, I'd do anything to keep 'em both safe."

Your face fell as you realized he was right. Joe watched you come to this conclusion; his lips pressed together. "With a war it wouldn't be safe for ya. 'Specially cause you're Billy's girl. He's a famous outlaw, little. It'd be careless of him to just jump into this and put a target on your back."

Shaking your head, you looked down, trying to process. He wanted to protect you. But now knowing about the rivalry, the outright war brewing, you realized this was bigger than Billy and Joe feeling good about the work they did. This was justice. It was wrongful law. Your heart soared at the thought of Billy going against his instincts to keep you safe.

But it wasn't right. Not in your mind.

Meeting Joe's eyes again, you squeezed his hand. "I was foolish and innocent before to think what I did. But now I still think the same for different reasons."

Joe tilted his head. "What can ya mean?"

You took in a breath. "If what you say is true, this is a good cause, the best really. This is good and bad. Those people, the ones Tunstall's standing for, they need you." You squeezed his hand again. "They need you and Billy to fight for them."

Your brother's eyes grew soft as he looked at you. "Little-"

"It would be selfish of me to keep two able, right minded men from advocating for something so worthy," you said softly.

Joe looked at you for a second, noting the sincerity in your eyes. You could see the battle he was fighting in his mind.

He stood up, picked up his hat, and came around the table, kissing you on the head. Looking down at you, he said, "I'll do whatever Billy does."

And with that, he walked out the door.

It was late when Billy arrived home.

When he did, he found you in the kitchen in your nightdress, your hands folded on the table, Tunstall's card in front of you, a single candle lit.

"Daisy," he greeted, looking at you suspiciously.

"Sit," you nodded at the chair in front of you. He obediently did.

Immediately his eyes caught on the card, recognizing it. He lifted his eyes to you, and you could see the panic behind them, though it didn't move past there. "You saw Joe."

"I did," you confirmed quietly, sitting up straight.

Billy just looked at you for a moment. "Darlin', I didn't wantcha to know about any of this. I oughta give your brother a piece 'f my mind for even tellin' ya-"

"Don't blame Joe," you shook your head. "It took a lot for me to get it out of him." With only a little difficulty due to your belly, you picked up his hand. "He told me everything-"

"So ya know why I can't do it," he cut you off, squeezing your fingers. "I ain't aboutta put my wife 'n child in danger. I've fought too hard to get us here to do somethin' so stupid."

"I understand," you said softly, "But I haven't changed my mind."

Billy let out a frustrated breath, looking down. Then he got out of his chair, getting on his knees in front of you and gripping your hands around your belly. He kissed them briefly, mumbling, "Daisy. I am not going to put ya in harms way. Not you and not baby."

"At least hear me out?" you asked, looking him in the eye.

He'd never deny you anything. Sighing softly, he nodded.

You kissed one of his hands. "Thank you." Gathering your thoughts and your courage, you began. "I know you're worried about me. And I love you more than anything in the world for it. But-" you clasped his hands, bringing them to your breast. "This...this is everything you've ever stood for. I know how much it means to you for things to be right, especially when it comes to immigrants." His eyes softened, losing some of their panic as he listened to you. You'd never in your life felt like Billy wasn't hearing what you said and now was no exception.

"You are good. And you want things to be right. You fight and you protect," you squeezed his hands, keeping them where they were. Your hair fell over your shoulder as you leaned in closer to him. "My love, my Billy...they need you. And who would I be to keep you from them?"

"My darlin'," he shook his head, gripping your fingers for dear life. "I ain't riskin' ya for nothin'."

You bowed your head, closing your eyes. "You have something to fight for. That means you'll be the best of them."

Billy heaved a deep, choked breath, and he buried his face in your lap, right against your belly. He brought your hands close to him again, his elbow propped on your knee, squeezing one tight. When he finally lifted his head, he stood, pulling you up too. When you were steady he framed your face with his hands and kissed you soundly, softly, slowly.

You met his lips with equal fervor, the love he poured into the kiss electrifying you. When he pulled back, he pushed your hair behind your ear, smoothing his hand over the back of your head and holding you there. "My angel," he breathed, eyes sincere, his other hand mirroring the first. "My Daisy...you're too good for this world."

Sliding your arms around him, you kissed him again desperately, and he lifted you into his arms, in a bridal carry as he walked up the stairs to your bedroom.

A million kisses and touches and whispered affirmations later, you were back where you'd missed him, back where you knew everything would be okay. His arms were the safest place in the world.

Billy's hand found its spot on your belly, tracing circles around your bare skin. He kissed your head. "How's baby?"

"She's good," you murmured absentmindedly.

He pressed a sleepy series of kisses to the side of your face. "She?"

You smiled in a quiet way. "She."

"Ya think baby's a girl?" his nose squished against your cheek as he asked, his lips against your skin.

"I know," your hand came around to play with his hair.

"I see," he tucked his face into the crook of your neck, kissing you there now. "Ya know we gotta give her a flower's name then? Like her mama?"

The thought made you smile wider. "We've got lots of flowers to choose from."

"Rosie," Billy muttered, leaning down to kiss your belly. "Rose."

He looked at your belly with such wonder, such awe. Billy propped his chin up on it, still being gentle though, kissing it again. You stroked his hair, the image of a baby with pink cheeks and your husband's bright blue eyes dancing in front of your eyes. "Rosie."

Billy moved up close to you again, leaning down to press a soft little kiss to your lips again. He nudged his nose against yours, closing his eyes briefly. "Gonna be pretty as a peach just like her mama."

You smiled, closing your own eyes and trying to imagine her in detail. "She's gonna have her daddy wrapped around her finger."

"Same as mama," Billy kissed your jaw. "Gonna spoil her beyond belief."

"Me or Rosie?" you asked, opening your eyes to find he was looking right back at you.

"Both," he promised. His lips trailed sleepily all over your face. Pulling back for a moment, he looked down at your belly again. "She's stealin' daddy's heart without even bein' born yet."

You settled into his side when he came back up to you, resting your head on his chest. His hand trailed up and down your arm lazily. "She stole my heart same way you did."

Looking up at him, you smiled happily. "I love you Billy. Billy Antrim." Then you mock gasped. "Oh- William H. Bonney. My mistake."

He poked your shoulder, grinning good-naturedly. "Slip 'f the tongue, eh?"

"Never did tell me what the H was for," you giggled, hiding your face in his side.

"Darlin'-" he chuckled. "Gotta let go of that damn H."

"I never will," you laughed, shifting against him comfortably.

Billy stroked your hair fondly, soothing you to sleep. "I know Daisy. I know."

Tunstall turned out to be a better man than you'd thought, and you were glad for it. The Englishman welcomed Billy and Joe with open arms, listening to their feedback and paying them generously.

Billy was happier. You could see it. He came home before dark most days, sweeping you into his arms and holding you tight. He always pressed warm kisses to your face. "How're m' girls?"

As the weeks passed, your belly grew, and so did Billy's doting. He spent every night curled up with you in bed, just enjoying your presence, enjoying watching the baby grow.

"Everything okay?" he asked one night, noting your brief look of discomfort.

"Rosie's been kicking me all day," you winced slightly as she did it again.

"Ah, she's restless, eh?" Billy brought his hand down to your tummy, rubbing it soothingly. You let out a little noise of satisfaction as his big hand's feeling relaxed you. "Want me to talk to 'er?"

You nodded, settling back and closing your eyes. Billy's voice, as you'd discovered, had a soothing effect over Rosie. He was proud of the fact, and you let him have that, full of joy over it.

"Rosie girl," Billy murmured, his head right by your belly, hand resting on top of it still. "Ya wanna settle down in there so mama can get some sleep?

Rosie gave a little kick seemingly in response and you smiled, lifting your head to look at him one of your arms falling above you. "She's sassy."

"Just like mama," he grinned. "Think she's enjoying the attention. She likes hearing daddy's voice."

"She's not kicking anymore," you sighed, closing your eyes for some blissful, much needed rest.

Although things were well at home, you knew on the front, it was getting tenser by the day. As expected, Billy and Joe's resignment from Murphy's side caused a world of conflict. The way Jesse took the news hit them hard in particular. It was hard to watch men who'd been like brothers split suddenly, and you knew Joe and Billy had been that to him. You wouldn't let your worries show, for you knew Billy was stressed enough as was.

Instead of voicing your concerns, you did your part, keeping house and loving on him all you could when he got home every day. "My angel," he whispered into your hair nightly like a mantra. "Don't know what I'd do withoucha."

For a time all was well. For a time you were content with your growing baby and your home, your adoring husband.

But that was all before Tunstall was killed.

Billy wasn't home until early hours of the morning, collapsing into bed and waking you instantly. You rubbed the sleep from your eyes and reached for his hand. "Billy...Billy are you alright?"

He didn't respond at first, and you sat up more, looking down at him. "Billy..."

"Tunstall's dead," he said plainly, somberly, his voice muffled because he was buried into your side.

You pushed his face so you could see him. His eyes told you everything you needed to know.

"Oh my goodness," you breathed, reaching out and hugging him to you. He held on extra tight that night as your mind raced, wondering what this would mean for him. For Joe. For the war.

Billy craved justice. He fought for fairness and liberty. It’d been clear for all the years you'd known him, and you stood with him when he protested against what wasn't right.

The Regulators sought to avenge the death of the Englishman, and you bit your tongue, understanding their logic. Instead of fighting pointlessly with them you opened your home, since the camp they'd kept was no longer safe for them to stay at.

In a funny way it was just like old times, living with a gang. Your little corner of land was well hidden, and you were grateful for it, happy to do your part for their cause.

As in all times of war, some things couldn't be stopped, and in your case, it was Rosie. With all the hard work of keeping a house as busy as this one in addition to the stress of everything around you, you weren't doing as well as you should've been.

Though Rosie was active, a sign of good health you'd been told, you were losing resolve. Your weight was dropping at an alarming rate, and you became weaker. Billy was in a full state of protection, enlisting Charlie's wife Manuela to help you, even insisting you don't do any work, but you refused. You wanted so badly to help. Your husband was risking his life and this was the least you could do.

Late one night you were drying glasses, stacking them in the cabinet in front of you. Your movements were slow, your hands shaky.

Billy came up beside you, putting his hand on your back. Through the window you could see snow on the ground, and you were shivering, only a thin shawl wrapped around your arms.

He rubbed your back lightly. "Why don'tcha let me take care 'f those. You go up and rest, honey."

"No," you shook your head, stacking another glass in the cabinet and picking up another. "I can do it."

"Daisy-" he tried, reaching for the glass, but before he could get it, your hand gave a violent tremor, and it slipped from your hand. There was a magnificent shatter at your feet and you jumped, frightened from the sound.

Manuela appeared in the doorway, her eyes wide. "¿Margarita?"

Billy grasped you in his arms, looking up at her. "Lo siento."

She shook her head, reaching for a broom leaning against the wall and squeezing your arm as she walked past.

Without a word, Billy scooped you up into his arms and carried you up the stairs. He stripped your clothes off once both of you were behind the door of your bedroom, telling you to hold your arms up so he could put your nightdress on you.

He made you lay down, and he pulled the covers up, holding your hand tightly. Sitting on the side of the bed by your legs, he hushed you when you tried to protest, simply shaking his head.

The motion silenced you. There was no way to deny how bad it was getting anymore.

From that day on, your work was extremely minimal. Manuela took over most everything, all while caring for her newborn, which you hated the idea of. But Billy wouldn't allow it. He enlisted the men to help as well, ensuring the two of you weren't doing anything too heavy.

Some of the color came back to your face, but not much. It was horrible timing on your part, you thought. Murphy's crew was closing in. Nobody knew how much longer everyone had before they found the house and all in it.

One day one of the men came back with news. Through your window you saw him ride in and run up to the house. There was a world of commotion downstairs, and you sat up fully, trying to hear what was going on.

Footsteps sounded up the stairs, and you looked over to the doorway as Billy came in, a pile of wooden slats in his arms. You moved forward, poised to get out of bed but he shook his head. "Keep restin', baby."

"What's going on?" you asked, reluctantly leaning back against the pillows again.

"They found out where we are," Billy deposited the boards on the floor, fishing nails out of his pockets. "We don't know what they're gonna do to try 'n make us come out, so we're just gonna barricade everything."

"Right," you watched him start to hammer boards over your window, holding nails between his teeth. "Can I help at all?"

Billy made a noise of protest, spitting a nail into his hand and hammering it into the board. "You can help by restin'. It'll ease my mind."

You bit your lip and nodded, rubbing your belly as a soothing motion. "Am I the only woman left?"

"No," he stood up, tucking the hammer into his gun belt and coming to sit by you, clasping your hand. "Manuela and the baby left yesterday but there're two other wives here. Been helpin' us out." Billy looked mad at himself for a moment. "I shoulda had ya go with Manuela, don't know what I was thinkin'."

"It's okay," you squeezed his hand, giving him a reassuring smile.

Billy shook his head, looking down. "I shoulda known they'd find us eventually. Shoulda gotten ya to a safe spot." He kissed your fingers. "I'm sorry Daisy."

"Don't worry about me," you reached your arms out for him, and he obliged, hugging you tightly. "I'm perfectly fine."

"A standoff ain't no place for a pregnant gal," Billy muttered into you.

"I'll be safe up here," you promised, and he pulled back, holding you by the arms.

"You will," he said determinedly. "Ain't nobody gonna touch ya. I'll protect you." Billy kissed your forehead and got up. "Let me know if ya need anything, 'kay? Joe's here too, so just holler."

"I will," you gave his hand a final squeeze before he went back downstairs.

The opposing gang found the house quick. You could hear them shouting things, and men inside the house yelling back. As much as you wanted to go downstairs and see what was going on, you were determined to listen to Billy.

Rosie was kicking, so you tried walking back and forth, hoping the movement would soothe her. Over and over you prayed, hoping against hope that somehow Murphy's gang would leave and everyone would be safe.

It was hours before anyone came up to you and this time it was Joe, holding a glass of water and his gun. He set the water on the table. "What're ya doin' out of bed? Didn't Billy tell ya to rest?"

"I've been resting for a full week Joe," you paced back and forth, trying to breathe deep. "I don't think I'll ever have to sleep again."

"Still," Joe sat on the bed, removing his hat. "Little...ya gotta settle. Ain't good for your own little one."

"I'm fine." you stopped, trying to look through the boards on the window. "What's going on down there?"

"A lot of the gang left but some are still keepin' watch," Joe said, sitting on his hands.

"They left?" you turned to look at him. "That's not good."

"No," he agreed, standing and trying to see through the window with you. "We don't know if they're takin' shifts or if they've got somethin' worse up their sleeves."

"I'd bet on the latter," you looked at your brother. "Joe...what do you think's gonna happen?"

He looked at you, opening his mouth to respond, when suddenly he noticed something through the window. "Shit." he turned to you and squeezed your shoulders. "You stay here. Do not come downstairs unless me or Billy says."

Joe ran out the door, and you looked back through the slats. There were men on horses approaching. They were all holding something in their hands...you couldn't tell what it was, but it couldn't be good.

You watched anxiously, but as they got closer you couldn't make out what they were doing, and so you sat back on the bed, clenching your fists and trying to stay calm. Nothing good would come of your panic. You needed to stay calm for Rosie.

Then you smelled the smoke.

Suddenly you were taken back to the day you'd ridden home to your childhood home burning to the ground by cattle rustlers. Clenching the sheets, you reassured yourself blindly. Maybe they were just starting a fire. It was sunset after all, and it was winter. Surely, they were getting cold.

You kept your thoughts serene with wishful thinking, taking deep breaths. There was a world of unrest downstairs, but you ignored it. Please let Billy and Joe be safe. Please let Billy and Joe be safe.

It was nightfall now, and you were rooted to your spot, pleading for the door to open to reveal your brother or your husband telling you it was all over. You were terrified for them, more than yourself.

There was a crackling sound, and when you opened your eyes, you were startled by the sight of flames licking at the lower walls. The sight was one you couldn't tear your horrified eyes from, and you were frozen by it until the door slammed open.

"Little...little ya gotta come with me," Joe said in a panic, coming over and helping you stand.

A pit settled in your stomach that had nothing to do with the baby, and you asked in scared tones, "What's happening?"

"Bastards set fire to the house," Joe got you to the stairs, then lifted you into his arms, carrying you down carefully. "We'd kept it to just the bottom but there ain't enough water anymore. Cover your mouth."

You brought your arm to your face as Joe descended to the bottom level. Instantly smoke overwhelmed you, and you coughed into your arm, closing your eyes. The thick, cloudy substance was burning tears into them.

Joe shouted, "I got her!" and you saw one of the silhouettes move from the wall and hurry over.

Billy took your face in his hands instantly, looking over you for any sign of injury. He was still holding a gun in one hand, and the metal pressed up against your skin, warm from the fire. "Daisy...Daisy you alright? Baby alright?"

You nodded, still coughing on the smoke. He sighed in relief, his lips catching yours for half a second. "We're gonna get ya outta here. Promise, sweetheart. You're gonna be okay."

He nodded at the back half of the house, and Joe carried you over quickly. There was less fire over there, and you breathed a little easier. Billy looked around at his men. "You know the drill. We're gonna go in groups. Two of ya go first, 'n keep shootin' to keep their heads down." He looked at Joe and you. "You go after the second group. They'll be firin' instantly if we send ya first so we'll wait just a moment. Yell at 'em that you've got a woman with ya so they won't shoot."

Everyone nodded, their eyes trained on Billy. You couldn't help but admire his leadership in that moment. He was fearless, strong in the face of the danger you were smack in the middle of. You could see the trust on the men's faces around you and it filled you with awe. They were facing nearly certain death and yet.

"First group go!" Billy shouted over the fire, and two men you didn't recognize barreled through the back entrance, guns blazing. You couldn't see what became of them.

The second group went to similar results, and then Billy turned to you and Joe. He kissed you on the forehead, trailing a thumb down your cheek and touching your belly for just a moment. "You're gonna be okay, Daisy. Everythin's okay."

"Please be safe," you pleaded, your voice raspy from the smoke.

"I'm gonna come back to ya," Billy swore, kissing you quickly. He grasped Joe by the shoulder. "Charlie's place. You know the way."

Joe nodded. "You got it boss." Clapping him on the shoulder, Billy nodded at the door.

"Go!"

It was like slow motion. Joe moved quickly, and you wrapped your arms around his neck, keeping your head down. He shouted that he had a woman, and someone yelled something back. You relaxed slightly when the gunfire ceased, lifting your head. Joe held you close to his chest protectively, and he looked down at you when he'd nearly reached the end. "I've gotcha little. I've-"

The crack of a gunshot, the most sickening sound you'd ever heard.

You realized before he did, and your mouth opened in a silent scream as his body jolted, his face rigid. Joe tried to take another step, but his legs gave out and he collapsed, simultaneously dropping and falling on top of you.

All your senses blurred as you crashed to the ground, and your eyes stung with tears as you struggled to get up, pushing Joe off you and shaking him. "Joe...Joe get up...please get up, please-"

His eyes were glassy, staring at some invisible thing in the sky, his limbs stiffened. Another scream, this time real, tore itself from your throat as tears fell in rivers. You shook your head, sucking in cold night air as you tried in vain to wake your brother up. "Joe-"

A pair of arms pulled at you from behind, and you struggled, refusing to leave. him. "No...no he's gonna wake up...he just needs a minute...he's gonna-"

Whoever the arms belonged to was pulling you away, and you cried hysterically, not once looking away from your brother's broken body, his gun falling half out of his holster. "Joe...Joe..."

"Shh!" your rescuer whispered harshly, and you turned to look at him, your horrified expression melting into a confused one.

Jesse stood you on your two feet away from the rest of his gang, shoving something cold and metal into your hands. "Here. Ya still know how to shoot?" he asked in a harsh whisper.

You nodded, still numb from the pain and shock. He held you by the shoulders. "Good. Now-" he looked at the nearby woods. "You run. Far away from here. Go wherever Joe was gonna take ya."

At the mention of Joe you teared up again, but Jesse shook you slightly, snapping you out of it. "Hey. You can cry over him later. For now, focus on gettin' outta here. Go." When you hesitated, he pushed you toward the trees. "Go!"

Too scared to do anything else, you obeyed. The winter air hardly had an effect on you as you ran through the woods, the gun Jesse had given you grasped tightly in your hand. You hardly had time to process his act of kindness with everything that had happened.

The only thing you could think of was Joe. The look on his face, the fact that someone had the gall to shoot-

Anger became adrenaline, and you ran for a long time before you stopped, exhaustion and your pregnant state forcing you to rest. You breathed sharply, leaning against a tree for a moment.

A branch snapped, and you held up the gun, looking around fearfully. Had one of Jesse's crew seen you and come after you? Your breaths were fearfully quick, and you turned around, jumping back when you saw a man standing there, his hands held up in a show of peace.

"Easy, easy," he said, nodding at you. "Not gonna hurtcha."

You recognized him as one of the Regulators, and you lowered the gun, feeling like you'd crumble into the earth. He must've seen this because he stepped closer, steadying you. "Here...ya shouldn't be walkin' like this. C'mon." He lifted you off your feet, minding your belly, and started to walk.

Everything was a blur after that. You were limp in the man's arms, and when you came to, Manuela was standing above you, putting a blanket over your body. "Margarita," she murmured, putting her hand on your forehead.

You lifted your head to greet her, but a sudden sharp pain shot through your core before you could. Gasping in pain, you held your hand to your belly tightly as if that could stop it. "What was that?" you choked.

Manuela pushed you to lie back down. "You started having pains on the way here. Don't you r-" she cut herself off, seeming to realize something. "Your baby's coming."

"Baby's-agh!" another pain cut you off and tears sprung to your eyes. "How long have I been here?"

"Maybe two hours," Manuela said, mopping your forehead with a cool rag. "Have you been having any other pains? Maybe earlier today?"

You nodded, gritting your teeth as another contraction passed through. "I thought...someone told me it was normal to have them...in the last couple months...I didn't tell anyone..."

She nodded. "Labor can sneak up on you." Taking the rag off your forehead, she smoothed your hair comfortingly. "It'll be okay. You're probably more than halfway through it already."

You hissed when another pain slid in and out of your system. "Billy...I want Billy, where is he?"

Manuela paused for a moment, adjusting the blanket over you. Then she met your eyes grimly. "He's not back yet."

Squeezing your eyes shut, you nodded, biting your cheek so you wouldn't cry. She noticed, soothing a hand over your cheek. "There, sweet girl. You're going to be okay. He'll be back soon enough.”

You reached up for her hand and squeezed it, having no choice but hope. "He will. He has to."

The pain stretched on for what felt like hours. Manuela was your companion through it all, whispering things to calm you and letting you squeeze her hand. She knew a few things about giving birth, she said, because her mother had been a midwife, and given she'd done it herself fairly recently.

Pain bled into more pain quicker and quicker, and Manuela sat beside you on the bed, propping pillows up behind you for support. She set your legs apart, squeezing your hand and telling you to push when it felt like you had to.

Grueling and long, the process weakened you. You tried to focus on getting Rosie out, but the events of the night wouldn't leave. Joe's death and your home burning down and running through the woods...it was all charred into the forefront of your mind, and the result was a lengthened, difficult birth.

Manuela looked up, and you tried to follow her eyes, but you were too weary. She stood, going to someone in the doorway and speaking in hushed tones. You heard boots clomping over to your side, and then a big, warm palm was caressing the side of your face. Opening your eyes, you smiled tiredly.

"Angel baby," Billy breathed, kneeling beside you and clasping your fingers together. "You're bein' so brave. 'M brave girl." He kissed your sweaty forehead.

"You're here," you whispered, and he nodded, slipping an arm under you and lifting you slightly, causing you to whimper. "Shh, shh," he soothed. "This'll help. I'd never do anything to hurt ya."

“Joe…” you sniffled, hoping he’d tell you what you saw was just your imagination.

Billy’s face broke for a second, and he bowed his head. “Don’t think ‘bout that. Rosie. Ya gotta think of Rosie.” He seemed to be convincing himself too.

He kissed your hair and lifted you all the way to sit up, then moved the pillows and settled behind you, his legs on either side of your body. Billy smelled like sweat and smoke, but you didn't care. He was here and everything could be okay now.

Once he moved you, labor went quicker. You could feel your body working for you, pushing the baby out of its own accord. Silently, you thanked the deities for natural instincts. Billy held your hand in his, letting you squeeze tight as you could. His presence was a comfort to you, and it made you forget everything else. All that mattered was Rosie.

She slid into the world as the sun was coming up, and you fell limply against Billy. It was over. Everything in the darkness had been sharp and painful. With the rising sun, you gained a little more hope, and you looked up weakly, trying to see your baby in Manuela's arms. She'd wrapped her in a blanket, confirming it was a girl.

Rosie wasn't crying, which you found odd, but you were too happy for labor to be over to worry. Manuela had a strange look on her face as she looked down at your baby, and you frowned, trying to sit up more. "Can I see her? Can I see Rosie?"

Her face was somber as she looked up at you and Billy, and without a word she walked slowly over, lowering the little bundle for you to see. Your heart nearly stopped.

Rosie was moving, but feebly. Your baby was ailing, even though her life had just begun.

"It was a very stressful birth," Manuela said, her voice hushed and sad. "She wouldn't have been long for this world...even with everything..."

There it was again. That numbness that encapsulated your being, the feeling you weren't sure was temporary. It crawled through your mind, digging up a whole world of sorrow you hadn't known you were capable of.

Billy took the baby, holding her in one arm carefully. His grieved face was hard to look at. Your baby girl stirred, letting out a tiny cry. He kept you pressed against his chest, holding Rosie and rocking her gently. "Shh, sweetheart. It's okay. Daddy's here. I'm here."

For the millionth time you felt tears welling up and you hated yourself for it. You were so tired of crying.

Rosie grabbed at Billy's shirt with her tiny fist. He gently slipped a finger between her little ones, letting her grasp it. When he saw how tight she was squeezing it, he smiled through his own tears. "Lookit how strong you are. Holdin' on tight to Daddy's finger."

The scene was too much, and you hid your face in his shoulder, sniffling and letting tears rain. It all hurt, but since it wasn't the first hurt of your waking hours, it just pounded at your chest like a dull ache.

You forced yourself to look back at Rosie, reaching a hand out to touch her face, your hand cupping her little head. She was beautiful.

"Hi Rosie," you said softly, tears still raining. "Oh sweetheart...mama loves you so much. My love...my girl…”

Billy was silent, and you could see your baby growing weaker by the second. You slid your arm under Rosie, and he handed her over, letting you hold her as she slipped quietly from the world.

Grief is not a big, monstrous thing that pounds at your doors and shatters your windows.

It is smoother than that. Grief holds your hand and acts as a friend, tells you things you've been wanting to hear your whole life. You begin to trust it, and then there is no need to smash any windows or break any doors. You've let it in with no fuss to it. And it makes itself comfortable.

It was a friend you'd welcomed over and over in your more recent years, over your father's death, over the loss of your childhood. But you hadn't known the layers to it before. Rosie and Joe went within less then a day of each other. So you had a hard time untangling tears from each other.

Billy was hit hard with it. He'd known it before too. That was the thing. You had both thought the feeling was familiar. You thought it had been mastered and that it was over and gone. It hit when you were least expecting it.

You felt like a ghost in the weeks following the deaths of your brother and daughter. Nothing felt real anymore.

Nothing except his arms around you. That was the only place you felt anything. And he let you feel.

Time ticked whether you got better or not. Billy's protective instincts didn't dull one bit as he watched for Jesse's crew, gun always loaded, eye on the horizon.

He and Charlie spoke of heading to another location for just a little bit, until Murphy had scoped out the space you were currently residing. Then he'd come back, he promised you. He'd come back and you'd figure something out together.

You grasped his hand as he sat atop his horse, looking down at you. "Be safe."

Billy leaned down and caught your lips in a long kiss, more comforting than anything. He squeezed your hand. "You're strong Daisy. That's my girl." He gave you a smile that looked like it held all the weight in the world. "I'll come back to ya. Never forget it. I'll always come back to ya."

You pulled him down for another kiss, lingering a little before saying, "I'll hold you to it."

"Please," he let go of your hand with a final squeeze, tipping his hat to you like the gentleman he was. "I love ya Daisy. I'll be back."

His words seemed to echo as he rode off, Charlie's horse in step beside him. You leaned your head on Manuela's shoulder as you watched your husbands go.

It was a week before you heard the news.

Billy grinned as you pulled the blankets up, putting his hands under your arms and lifting you up, setting you on his lap. "Ain't no gettin' away."

There were cracks in windows of this house. You'd never noticed that before.

"You're gonna make me stay?" you asked playfully, leaning down on his chest and kissing his collarbone once. The morning sunshine made him nearly unreal; he was so pretty.

A deputy came by to tell you officially. He didn't seem proud, even though this was all his comrades had worked toward for the past who-knows-how-long.

"Daisy," Billy teased. "I'm gonna hold ya all mornin' and then some."

This had been at the root of your every fear since you'd met him. But you had never thought it'd come true. He was yours. Yours to hold and keep and need.

"Maybe I'll stay a little while," you smiled, rolling off his chest and lying on your side to face him. "Since I happen to love you so much."

Shot by Pat Garrett. Once a friend.

"That's my girl," Billy smiled, pulling you in close. "Angel baby."

You were told he hadn't even had time to pull out his gun. A hard thing to believe, since he was the fastest draw in the west. But then Charlie stumbled through the door with the same story, and it was hard to get past that.

There was a time in your life, when he'd been gone from your life for a long time, when you hadn't been sure Billy had even been real. Had you made him up? Was he something you could just tuck back into a memory box?

You didn't have the luxury of thinking so this time.

"I'll always come back to you."

You never knew quiet before.

In this little house, though, it took shape and settled next to you like a fond cat. It was welcomed. You craved it, holding it to your body and willing it to bring you the peace of forgetting.

The day after you'd been informed of Billy's fate, you had ridden into town and drawn all the money you had out of the bank. Even though he was an outlaw, you weren't, and you were able to access that, and Joe's account too. Ignoring the pain of being told you were your brother's next of kin, you'd gathered your things and wasted no time in leaving Lincoln County in the dust.

Here it was very lush and green, with tall trees and leafy foliage bigger than your head. The little home you'd purchased was tucked away in the midst of the plants, just the way you'd wanted. Whoever would find you here?

So far nobody. And you were fine with it.

Sure, you went into town every now and then for supplies, pouring a little money into investments that left you time to yourself. It would have been spent working otherwise, and you didn't want to do that yet.

Here in the forest, you'd be content to live out your days in the hallowed halls of memory, and hopefully let time soften all wounds. Maybe the ticking clock would be merciful and let your recollections fall, fall into the abyss of forgetfulness. You'd only know if you waited.

Naturally you sent letters to Charlie and Manuela, telling them you were safe. They were the only people who knew you in the world now.

Such a thought would have disturbed you in the past, but now it was comforting. All the pain and grief you'd held tight was free to roam in the wide space of the forest. It traveled the length and came back to tell you about it, as you knew it always would. Time became the wound, but it was stitching with every second you spent in serenity.

You felt yourself smile and come back to life. All could be well. Just as you had in the past, you would learn to exist purely for yourself. Surely the hole in your heart would ease into a prick mark.

So far, your results had weaned nothing. You yearned and tried not to. Nights were not spent sleeping, but reminiscing. Because oh, the tragic memories wandered, but so too did the beautiful ones.

You thought of your little daughter more often than not, your beautiful Rosie. So strong-willed, so darling and true. She was treasured within you, and you knew you would never forget her. She was probably the one thing you didn't want to forget.

And of course you thought of him.

“I’m a lucky man,” he kissed your forehead, his nose smushed to it. “Everythin’ we been through…I’d do it a thousand times more so I could love ya at the end.”

Could you set all the rest adrift? So far no, but it'd been a mere few months here. Only time would tell.

The rain pounded at your roof that summer, and you tended a roaring fire in the hearth most nights, trying to keep warm in wake of the storms. The sound calmed you though, and somehow that kept you going.

You stretched out by the fire one night, looking at the flames and trying to imagine them as something other than destroyers. That was all you'd ever known the element to be.

It was fruitless for now, so you turned onto your back, staring at the ceiling and hoping you'd be more successful tomorrow. The wooden pattern of the roof spun daydreams that had you slipping off into sleep.

A sudden pounding knock at the door startled you out of your stupor, and you frowned. Who could possibly be here at this hour? And in the rain?

Standing up and reaching for the pistol you kept on your side table, you gaged your options. If it was a lost traveler you'd offer them shelter. Anything else...you'd play it by ear based on how threatening they were.

Grabbing the door handle and swinging the door open, you held the gun tightly at you side, peering into the darkness to see who it was.

The pistol clattered at your feet.

You were dreaming. You had to be. Because this was the most impossible thing you could think of.

Reaching out a trembling hand, you touched his face, feeling that scratchy stubble, damp from the rain. Solid. Real.

You took him by the hand in a haze, pulling him inside and shutting the door. Sitting down by the fireplace, he did the same, and you studied him, the light from the flames making it all the more probable.

His lips parted, and he removed his hat, dropping it beside his knees. "Daisy."

Like a trigger, the word sent you flying into his arms, knocking him over backwards with an oomph. He wrapped himself tight around you and you were home.

"You're dead," you breathed, pressing your face into his chest and inhaling his scent, the one you'd dreamt of for months.

"Everyone thinks I am," he whispered, his nose buried in your hair. Billy rocked you back and forth, and you nearly wept.

"How do I know this isn't a dream?" you asked softly, looking up into his blue eyes, never wanting to tear away from them again.

"You don't," he kissed your head. "I'm half sure I'm dreamin' myself. But after we go to sleep and wake up right here, I hope we'll both be a little more convinced."

That was him. That was your Billy. You wound your arms around him and burrowed into him as you'd ached to for months. He was here. Utterly yours. Forever in this far off place where only the gentle survived.

Bliss, you thought to yourself as he kissed you long and soft and sweet. This is bliss.

Previous part|Epilogue

[qfzeeph]

felt like gushing about the silly blue man today so here's a rare "you get zeeph writing" moment!!

♡Kaito (Vocaloid) x Reader/Master HCs♡

♡this be fluffy, with a teeny tiny bit of spicy jokes towards as a treat. that's about it♡

♡ So, what is he exactly? You have no idea. Some sort of weird ambiguous cross between an android and just a regular ordinary human it seems? But that air of mystery is part of what makes him so charming. You wouldn't have even known he had mechanical parts somewhere within him if he hadn't spoken to you. You can definitely hear it in his voice (though sometimes when he sings it's very easy to forget!) and through some of his mannerisms, but he just seems to be a regular human guy otherwise. Don't try to ask him about it either, because he's not even quite sure himself. All he knows is he woke up one morning with the mission to make people around the world happy and that he's got some sort of internal machinery and coding within him. ♡Absolute cuddlebug. His favorite time of day is when you're snuggled together under a warm blanket. Need I say more? They don't call him "Cozy Kaito" for nothing. He's warm like a space heater, but not uncomfortably warm. ♡Cut the fancy date crap, he'd rather go out for ice cream or a romantic walk in the park. It's the little things for him, and ice cream of course. Taking him out to get ice cream means the world to him. ♡However, he isn't afraid to spoil you silly with little things either. Flowers, candies, various treats, you come home to them all the time. Any of those little things that make your day a little brighter he's gonna do for you. Your smile is incredibly important to him, and he wants to make sure you're feeling loved whenever possible. ♡He's your biggest cheerleader. He wants to see you succeed and will relentlessly hype you up for whatever you're doing. If you are to fail, he'll be there to soften the blow and get you back on your feet to try again. ♡Sometimes, you have to remind him that ice cream and cuddles isn't going to solve every problem. Since he's programmed with the task of making others happy, sometimes he forgets that and may push a little too far when you're stressed. He tries his best to catch himself, and while he is learning to combat that initial urge to cheer you up sometimes he still slips up. Just a simple "I need a little space right now" is more than enough to remind him though. It was hard for him to hear at first but he quickly understood. ♡Another "programming quirk" he has is calling you "Master." If you like that, he won't stop! But if you're like me and would rather him just call you by your name, he'll happily oblige the best he can. However, in moments of passion, he might let a "Master" or two slip out, or combine your name with the word. I'm sure it'll make for some cute pet names. ♡On the topic of pet names, he loves them. Thinks all the little nicknames you give him are super cute. He'll definitely try and find some for you too on the "cutesy-romantic" end. ♡Even Kaito gets sad. He struggles with the idea that he's a failure occasionally and that he's not doing enough. A little love from you is a quick fix, and over time with your care he may even overcome that mindset.

♡He loves to go out places with you, whether it be for errands, work, or fun. If he's not sure about where you took him though, don't be surprised if he clings to you like a lost puppy for a bit until he figures out what's going on. ♡Speaking of cling, he's a clinger. Loves to hold your hand, walk with an arm around you, carry you around the house, sit with his head on your shoulder (or your head on his shoulder!) ♡Kaito plays a lot of different roles when he performs. If there's a specific one you like, he'd be more than happy to add bits and pieces of that role to your interactions. Of course, his usual goofy self will always shine through. Though he's also willing to apply playing the role to other scenerios if you so desire (wink wink) ♡Loves to sing to you. There's songs he sings to you that'll never leave your room, both in a spicy sense and in a "I don't want anyone else to hear this because I wrote it for you and you alone" sense. He also likes to learn the words to your favorites (mainly non vocaloid, or vocaloid songs that don't feature him if applicable) and sing them to you! Expect a lot of sappy, cute song outbursts during your time at home, and occasionally when you're out too but not quite as often. Though you may catch him humming the melody to one of your favorite songs while you're out and about! He'd be incredibly happy if you sang along with him too. Even if you think you can't sing, he'll tell you you've got the voice of an angel. Author's Note: For me personally, I like to imagine he'd sing the chorus to "You Are My Sunshine" every night before bed. But that's just me :) (please click on that. I'm begging you. I have no idea why that video only has like 100 views on it as of me writing this because it's literally so good and heartwarming and it's also like the full song which is honestly pretty sad in terms of lyrics in retrospect but the chorus gets me real good real good reeeallll goooooood.) ♡Last, but not least... The scarf stays on. no exceptions. If you catch my drift ;) (okay. one exception, to throw it in the washer when it gets dirty.)

fhsdlfjsdlkfjsd hope you enjoyed me drooling all over the place with this. I'm starting to become shameless when it comes to sharing this kind of stuff in the best possible way. it's the lord's year of 2024 imma do what I want and write about all my favorite fictional men

[glitzglamgunpowder-if]

Another one: Which of the ROs is a cuddlebug, and who is the kind to slip out of cuddle while sleeping? Also, preference (definitely did not forget how to spell that lol) in position please!

I have waaaaayyy too many to ask, its gonna feel like rapid fire lol

Oh please never worry about sending too many asks I LOVE getting asks about my blorbos <33 They're all cuddlebugs but to varying degrees! I think the only two to slip out of the cuddle while sleeping would be Sam and H at first because they're not used to the idea of being that close with someone after so long (and they have to get up early in time for work 😭) but trust they can't wait to get back to cuddling!

As for positions, here are asks about big/little spoons & jetpacking for reference! A and Jesse would prefer facing each other and entangling themselves with MC, while Sam and H would be fine with facing the other way and wrapping their arm and/or leg over MC.

[rius-cave]

Between Adam and Lucifer, which of the two is the clingy cuddlebug (I'm gonna guess it's both) and which of the two refuses to let the other up when it's time to get up in the morning? Both of these men are in some way divorced, I know they're touch starved

I'd honestly think Lucifer would show these behaviors more often, and especially more freely. Adam would, initially, not show any kind of "innocent" affection, unless he wanted something else lol. But once their relationship turns serious and all the drama and existential crisis is over, Adam would be more, uh, forward, and he'd try to "demand" attention in his own way, except Lucifer scolds him and teases him and tells him he has to ask nicely haha.

Lucifer tends to wake up early, he kinda has to, though the man doesn't sleep very well, but Adam sleeps like a rock and sleeps until late a lot, so I think he wouldn't even be there for when Lucifer wakes up haha. If it so happens that they wake up at the same time, Lucifer is definitely more likely to ask Adam to stay longer lol

[nightunite]

I found you a video of seals just plopping themselves on the wildlife photographer (someone said they thought he might be cold) and that’s one of the things Seal!Soap does even as a person.

Just plops himself onto any available teammate because two people are much warmer than one and three people are much warmer than two and five is infinitely better because everyone now is warm.

Video in question: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMkqhjUu4/

- @girl-lostconnection

Omg this was the best thing to wake up to, look at them! Look at their lil faces! They're just sweetheart angels! (Full grown male elephant seals are terrifying but that's besides the point) Cuddlebug Seal!Soap, gonna snuggle him and cure my depression Thank you for the seals!

Also can we talk about the one random penguin walking away in the background?