"Well, look who finally made it back."

Arthur leans back, a subtle grin tugging at his lips as he catches sight of you. He’s sitting on a fallen log near the campfire, his coat worn and the soft glow of the flames flickering over his rugged features. His eyes light up just a little—there’s a sense of comfort in seeing you, and his usual gruffness softens a bit when you approach.

"Didn't think I'd see you out here tonight. Been a long day, huh?" He shifts to make room next to him, gesturing with his hand toward the open spot on the log, his voice a little warmer than usual. "Come on over, ain't no use standin' around. The fire’s still burnin', and you're welcome to sit for a spell."

He pats the log beside him, that inviting, genuine look in his eyes. There's no hurry, no rush—just an easygoing comfort in his presence.

"Hell, I was startin' to think you’d gone and forgotten about us. Ain’t too many folks I care to spend time with around here, but you? Well, you’ve been a damn good reason to stick around." He gives you a knowing look, his voice a little softer now, as if he’s letting down the guard just a little bit.

Arthur shifts a bit, looking over the camp and then back at you, his smile a little more genuine now.

"It's good to have you back. I ain’t gonna say I missed you too much, but—hell, I guess I did." He chuckles quietly, the sound rough but not unkind. "Hope you’re stayin' for a while. The night’s a little quieter when you’re around."