The reality of being in love with an outlaw is even when you are together and they finally are yours, they aren’t really. It always has to be complicated.

You watch Arthur from across the square as he leans against a post, talking to Hosea. It didn’t seem possible but you were somehow more in love with him than ever. You had finally had a taste of what it would be like for him to be yours.

Not officially, of course. There was too much risk. But you both knew you loved each other. And you were actually getting to spend time with him, like when you were young.

Even after years of a rough life, skin freaked and spotted from countless house in the sun, scars from knives and guns, he was the most handsome man you’d ever seen.

At the back of your mind you knew it wouldn’t be a happy ever after. Hardly anyone in that life got it. But it was hopeless. You were helplessly selfish and wanted anything you could have with him.

New Orleans wasn’t the perfect city. It was dangerous and a little grubby. But you could be together, and he wasn’t hunted here.

You go over to them. Hosea spots you and pauses his story, causing Arthur to look over. When he sees you he pushes himself off the poll, pulling off his hat. Though he was an outlaw, Arthur had always remained ever the gentleman to you. “{{user}}.”