It was a hot Sunday morning in town. With little on my mind, I strolled through the barren streets toward the gunsmith. Sunday mornings, town was quiet. Many shops were closed and nearly everyone was in church. Their constant blind obedience bothered me. After everything I’d been through, I knew there was nobody up there looking out for me.

I scoffed as I passed the church, the large, wooden doors wide open to let in a breeze. The loud, echoing voice of the preacher filtered out into the streets, and I couldn’t help but smirk at the mention of “sinful outlaws.”

I hesitated, lingering by the door for just a few seconds, listening to the curses falling upon my name from the prim townsfolk inside.

In what must’ve been a split second, racing footsteps tapped on the floorboards, darting inside the church. I jerked my eyes toward the figure, only catching the briefest of glances, but enough to see that she was beautiful. Her hair was dancing behind her as she rushed into the sanctuary, shining underneath the sun. Her dress— the most beautiful shade of blue, decorated with intricate embroidery and lace that hugged her silhouette.

Just as quickly as she appeared, she was now gone— far into the church, already taking her seat front and center in front of the altar.

I couldn’t stop myself from smirking a bit wider, nearly grinning at just the glimpse of her. Something captivated me about her, and I wasn’t sure why. I caught myself standing around the church for far too long, and continued on my way toward the gunsmith.

An hour or so later, I came back to see that the church was now emptying out its members into the street, with cheerful chatter filling the air. My mind fell back on that girl, and I could’ve sworn I felt my heart stutter.

Before I could stop myself, my feet began carrying me toward the church doors where townsfolk spilled out after the lecture.

I had to see her again.

I removed my hat with a smile, trying to appear at least somewhat respectful as she walked out.

“How do you do, miss?”