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    She had detected him coming before she saw him, and she was thankful for that, for if she hadn't, it likely would have spooked her. She observed as he knelt down, and began to splash his wound with the water. She was glad to see it was healing well, but could only assume it still hurt. Gently shifting, she tenderly took his arm, just examining it. She knew he could do that himself, but maybe it was just an excuse to get him to allow her to be this close. She softly sighed, but let go of his arm after looking at it. "If you need help... just let me know," She said kindly. Looking away at the river in front of them, she placed her fingers into the river. She smiled as the current pulled on her hand, and chilled the tips of her fingers. It made her want to jump in, too. Shaking her head, she lifted her hands to her hair, and wrung it out, watching as the water dropped onto the grass and settled in small balls. The light shone on them and made them sparkle, and there was a sense of admiration across her features- and almost a hint of jealousy. "Hey, Clyde..." she began, "ain't you ever wanted to... settle down? I mean, I'm sure bedding a new woman every single night is a wild ride but," she looked at him and smiled sheepishly, why did she even bring it up? It was awkward to talk about- especially with someone you had come to be infatuated with.


    Moving away from him, she gently coughed and took off her hat. "Nevermind," She stated as she walked a small ways down the riverbank, and took off her boots, before rolling up her pants and stepping it. She gave a mild shiver and then gave a big sigh, enjoying the relief it brought to her system. She had her gun with her this time, but in this moment, she didn't feel like she was going to need it. "You know, I've always wanted a family... I guess never really having one, you yearn for something that sounds amazing..." she let out a small sigh, "but I'm not sure I want kids... just a man, ya know? A Man I can rely on, and if it comes 'round that we're havin' kids... I'm fine with that." She wasn't sure why she'd share it, but she slowly shifted to sit on the bank keeping her feet in the water. She really was starting to like Clyde- and although it scared her, she was happy too... The feeling made her giddy, and warm. It wasn't something she'd felt in a long time. Was it wrong to want that? Especially with someone you got along with? She looked back at him, and just watched him move around- his reaction... everything. Maybe a part of her was also fearful that she would never get another chance- not with this lifestyle... but unlike most men, she didn't want a one-off fling. She thought she came to more value than just a one-night-stand.

    Letting her see his arm he watched her while she looked at his arm. He just liked watching her, it was probably was strange and when she looked up at him he quickly looked down at his arm so he wouldn't be caught staring at her. Damn it he knew he was catching feelings for her. "Thanks." He muttered in appreciation smiling briefly before turning his attention to his arm. Brushing off the water he slowly held out his arm and started to wrap it wincing as he pulled it tight. He didn't need to wrap it up so tight, but he didn't want anything getting in it. Glancing up at her when she said his name he blinked not at all imagining she would ask him if he wanted to settle down. When he ran his whole life it was just easier to think about where he was going to end up tomorrow instead of thinking about settling down sometime in the future. He looked like he was going to answer...hell if he knew what he was going to say til he said it. Still, before he could get a word out she backpedaled on her statement and stood up. He didn't follow her right away still in the middle of wrapping up his arm. Passing it awkwardly over his arm a few times he finished and rolled his sleeve back down. Clyde was mulling over his answer now still planning on answering.


    Walking himself over he sat near her on the bank listening attentively to her own answer to the question. Clyde was a little surprised she didn't want kids. Every woman he had met wanted kids. They cooed about how cute babies were and what names they liked the best. Clyde was still finding himself a little more on the fence about the whole kid idea. It seemed like it would make his life a lot harder. And he didn't want to leave the kids without a dad if something were to happen to him. Smiling softly he leaned back looking at her meaningfully. "Sounds like a good life to me. I wouldn't mind finding somewhere where there's not my wanted poster hanging up and just settle down." He rubbed the back of his neck as he looked at her. "You know the one-nights worked for me when I was younger. Now I'm not so opposed to the idea of getting married..." Clearing his throat he blinked briefly. "You to someone..eventually." He added realizing he had been looking right at her an implying marriage. To cover for his embarrassment he took the bandana from around his neck and dipped it in the water enjoying the feeling of the water running over his hand.

    She took a while before she even looked at him, watching the water churn about her legs, seeing the dirt brushed clean from her skin, she just smiled and laughed softly. There was a certain tickle to it. She slowly tore her gaze from the water, and her eyes stared at him curiously as he spoke. The gunmetal blue seeming deeper in the shadows of her hair, which messily encased her face. She was glad he was sharing back- even if she had informed him he didn't need to. She watched as he leaned back, and seemed in thought before he spoke. She smiled at his answer- clearly she liked it. She had met his gaze however when he talked about marriage, and although she seemed mildly embarrassed, she couldn't take it as if he were talking about her... he wasn't- right? She took the hint of his embarrassment and looked away herself, seeing him dip his hand in she shifted over, settling down next to him as her eyes traced down his arm, and watched the bandanna flail cutely within the water. She seemed amused by it, but as her lips parted to speak, she looked back at him, her eyebrows gently furrowed. It was almost as if she were fighting an inner battle- wanting to say something but couldn't bring herself to do so.


    She bit her lip, casting her glance to the side only briefly before she shifted, knocking off his hat as her lips found his. The kiss was brief however when she heard the crack of a stick, and her face grew dark as Ryker walked out, horses in hand. "Well." He said with a snort, noticing how red her face was. He ignored it, however, and let the horses drink. Marigold took the chance to move away- embarrassment making her movements stiff. Why did she do that?! She kept her back at Clyde and quickly walked over to grab her boots, fixing her pants. "Ahem," She cleared her throat, "we should... keep moving soon, no?" She asked Ryker, the man nodding slowly. "Ye, ye." He responded lazily, crouching down to fill his canteen full of water. "'Otta let them horses rest... Why don't yas... explore or somethin' together?" Ryker asked, didn't girls like doing that? He didn't know. He was surprised however as Marigold almost looked like she was about to say no, if Clyde didn't reply before she did.

    Pulling up the material from the water he clenched it in his fingers draining the excess water back into the river. As he tied it back around his neck he was watching her wondering what she was fighting to say..or maybe not say. He made a move to maybe say something..maybe ask her what was on her mind. He didn't get to though as before he could his hat was on the ground and his lips were met with her's. It was a strange turn of events that he hadn't expected. Sitting stunned for a moment he simply stared at her not even looking Ryker's way even when he came through with the horses. When her face flushed with color though he did manage to glance away. Slowly he rose to his feet and picked his hat out of the dirt. He still looked a little shocked and out of it suddenly. Yeah, he couldn't miss the mutual feelings they seemed to be catching, but he still hadn't expected her to kiss him. And afterwards he hadn't expected it to knock him off his feet so much. Standing up fully he was quiet for a couple minutes trying to get himself back to reality. Glancing at Marigold, well her back, he steadied himself and sighed.


    "Yeah..um..I'm going to have a look around." He mumbled glancing at her although she was clearly opposed to the idea. "I wouldn't mind company." It was an open invitation as he nodded and turned to walk back through the brush clearing his throat. He wasn't sure her reluctance was from the kiss itself or the fact she had done it. Putting it hat back loosely on his head he glanced up through the brim seeing the sun coming through the holes were bullets had nearly got him. He was walking slowly..hoping a little that she'd come after all. Now his head was all in a jumble and he wasn't sure where he stood on anything. Well besides the fact he wasn't opposed to the kiss, but he wondered if she was regretting doing it. Sighing softly he ran his hand over his face wiping off some the sweat that had accumulated on his brow. He whistled as he walked trying to fill the silence. Well now he had a lot more things to sort out then he thought he did. Maybe that was why he liked leaving. He didn't have time to second guess his decision and if they ever saw him again they usually hated him by then. What was he even doing with himself?

    Marigold was quiet when Clyde spoke up, and she felt her heart sink hearing him mumble. She didn't regret doing it but only regretted that it would ruin anything they had been close to building up. She hesitated when he very clearly offered for her to come along, and she could only sigh as she fixed her hat on her head and jogged to catch up with him since she had taken some time to actually move and get started. She looked down at her feet and his, watching as their strides matched once she was next to him, and she softly sighed. Looking up at the canopy overhead, she found solace in it for some reason, before she summed up enough courage to speak. "I... don't regret doing it," She started off, "I mean... I know I shouldn't be falling for you... But I am. And there's a chance that I might- that even you might... not see tomorrow. I'd rather live without regrets, and without worrying." She didn't know why she was trying to explain, maybe she felt it was necessary. "I ain't saying you have to return my feelings... but if you don't want that, or don't feel the same, jus' let me know." She smiled at him before she looked away.


    It would be hard to handle, being rejected by someone she had become so fond of, but keeping him as a friend if nothing more was far better than losing him completely. She didn't need him to like her back, she was happy just knowing she was still capable of it, and perhaps it was partly the reason why she felt empowered by it. She stayed silent after her little spiel however unless he asked or said something, just stepping with him on this aimless wander through the forest area. At least she could hear the birds singing, and it helped fill up the majority of any silence the two allowed. She moved ahead only a little when she began humming- singing a song she had been taught as a kid. She kept her voice quiet, however, but she wasn't bad at singing- not great, but definitely not bad. She made her mistakes, but she found humor in them and would laugh each time she went off key.

    The gunslinger did seem a bit surprised when she actually took him up on his offer. He walked in silence just whistling some old aimless tune that sounded better when someone sung it around a campfire. It was a little while of just him, her, and the stifling silence between the two. He glanced at her from the corner of his eye as she spoke. He didn't turn to fully look at her, but his eyebrows knit together as she admitted she didn't regret any bit of what she'd done. He didn't really either, but it was a relief to know she wasn't wanting to take it back as soon as she did it. A small comfort. He did finally look at her as she was finished speaking. They met each other's eyes for a second before she looked away. He sighed softly and smiled as he looked up at the canopy above. It seemed really quiet and peaceful here. Stuffing his hands in his pocket he was still thinking trying to find the best way to say what he wanted to say. He had to think about it for a while since, he didn't want anything to be misunderstood.


    Clearing his throat he slowed down his steps a bit. "I never said I didn't feel the same..." He chuckled softly to himself. He found it kind of funny that now his words failed him, when he could easily talk his way out of things with a gun held at his head. "I mean..I catching feelings for ya." He said clearly looking at her clearly. He was still trying to sort out all his emotions, but he'd be lying to say that he wasn't starting to feel something for her and he knew it was probably a bad idea to do it. He slowly drew his hand from his pocket and rested his arm on her shoulders laughing softly. "Even if you sing like a rooster in the morning." Pushing his hat back he leaned forwards and kissed her briefly before straightening up with a cheeky smile using his free hand to pull his hat back down. "For better or for worse." He nodded his head slightly not knowing really what he was agreeing to, he just felt like he needed to agree. Clyde supposed whatever was happening they were going to have to figure it out eventually.

    Marigold had kept near him, or at least tried to, he was walking pretty slow. She still had yet to say anything, but looked back at him every now and then- seemed like the gears were moving in his head, and she blinked. She half-expected him to tell her he didn't feel the same... and she could imagine a lot of guys didn't want to admit that- for the fear of making a girl cry, or something along those lines. She watched as his lips parted, however, and stopped when he began speaking. She stayed still and looked up to meet his gaze, holding it as he spoke. She seemed utterly in disbelief at the words he said, it was a rare occurrence for someone to like her, so how could she not be surprised? She found herself smiling soon after despite her surprise, finding it amusing that he stumbled with his own words. "What happened to the big fearless gunslinger?" She teased.


    She blinked when he said she sang like a rooster in the morning, and although her face filled with colour, she laughed sheepishly. "Oh bugger off with ya." Her voice was full of mirth, and the way she rolled her eyes showed she was at least taking enjoyment in their conversation. She wasn't expecting the kiss but didn't object to it either, her eyes seeming brighter than they had been as she watched him with a tender gaze. She nodded slowly when he said for better or for worse, agreeing to it but not sure what entirely he meant by it. "I'd have no other to watch ma' back." She murmured. Shifting, she pressed a light kiss to his cheek, before looking back ahead of herself. "Guess we oughta get back to takin' a gander?" She asked curiously, her hand brushing his as she began walking, and headed deeper in. She couldn't say there was much else to find or look at, but she was looking just to occupy the man's time... and to keep him here where she had him to herself was a pretty good reason in her mind.


    "Ya know... if Ryker finds out, he ain't gonna let either of us live it down," She noted, casting a look his way. She didn't seem embarrassed anymore, she just looked happy, and god did it feel nice to feel good. She couldn't say it happened often. But maybe now, at the end of all of this, she had a little bit more to look forward to than returning back to a shack out in the middle of nowhere. And that dream? That was enough for her.

    Chuckling softly he rubbed his bandaged arm both being playful, but also seemed a tiny bit embarrassed he was stumbling over his words like he was a little nervous boy telling a girl he thought she was pretty or something. "Just don't go around telling everyone okay? I do have a reputation to keep up." He added although not really seeming to care all that much about it. He could already think of a lot of instances of him not living up to the legend he was supposed to be when he was around her. Maybe he just was a little more comfortable around her then most people. Well, he definitely felt that way now. Raising a brow as he was told to bugger off he shrugged casually and turned himself a little bit and act for a moment like he might just take up her suggestion. Instead he turned himself back around and followed her to do some more 'gandering' even though truthfully he couldn't see much of a reason to. He wasn't going to complain though, time alone with her was something he didn't mind more of. Humming as they walked close together he stared up at the trees although his eyes ended up normally wandering back to look at her. Funny how situations change when they end up both finally getting it all out.


    Shifting his eyes to her again as she mentioned the fact that if Ryker found out he wouldn't leave them any peace. "Jesus, of course I'm pretty sure he was on to it before we were even wise to it ourselves." He reached down and put her hand in his squeezing it slightly. He remembered for a brief second seeing his mom and dad strolling hand and hand like this. "Are you still curious about the origins of Clyde Riley?" Although he was asking more as a joke it was a serious offer. He had kind of cut himself off when she asked earlier. Of course it kind of opened a pit in his stomach at the thought of telling somebody about his past. He hadn't really told anyone before because people didn't ask, so it was pretty deeply buried down in there. Still, he wanted her to know. If they were opening up he figured now was as good a time as any to talk about it.

    "I reckon even if I told everyone they would think I'm off my rockers," She replied, smiling as she gazed at him. She seemed surprised when he was acting like he was about to turn away, but laughed softly when she noticed it was just a joke. What a comedian. Lightly rolling her eyes, she kept walking and was once again captivated by her own thoughts. She didn't mind knowing little about Clyde, he had his reasons. She couldn't hold that against him, and she wasn't going to, she honestly wasn't much better. The only reason she had been so open so soon was because she was desperate to keep him around for the help he provided... now it was because she yearned for his closeness. She listened to him hum, and there was something serene about a walk like this through the canopy of trees, and she wasn't sure it could get much better. She felt so disconnected to the world, the way it was all going south at this moment, and it helped her relax. Notably, however, she did jump when he took hold of her hand, she wasn't expecting it, but when he squeezed her hand, she squeezed his back- holding onto it gently. She gave a chortle when he gave his comment about Ryker, and she had to admit it probably was true, he had a way of figuring things out that didn't make sense to her. But then again, there was a lot that he did that didn't make sense to her.


    When he offered to talk about his past, it clearly seemed to make her happy, a smile breaking her lips and lighting up her eyes. She had heard only a little about his past, and it hadn't been of much value- so for him to feel he could finally open up... It made her feel joy. "Darn tootin'," She said jokingly- but like him she was serious, she just enjoyed making him smile, or if she was lucky; laugh. There was a lot she looked forward to, but most of all it was spending time with him- and experiencing the confusing aspects of love... man did that sound childish. Yet, she knew they had to head back eventually to get back on the road to Barrow Peak... but the thought of finally getting there filled her with remorse, that it could very well be the end of the line for both of them.

    Giving a quiet little laugh seeing her light up at his offer to open up. He walked for a few moments clearing his throat as he tried to think of where to start. He hadn't really told her anything at all so he supposed he had to fill in a few details as well. "My dad was a would be cattle rancher and my ma was teacher from back East who wanted some adventure I guess. Anyway, they met then got hitched. My dad bought a little stretch of land for dirt cheap, he thought that it would be a good place to raise some kids." He got a bit quiet when he talked about his dad buying the land. Even looking back Clyde wished his dad had realized why it was so cheap in the first place. Drawing in a deep breath he moved on with his story. "So, they had me, my brother, and then my two sisters. My ma is the one who made me learn all that Shakespeare. A Midsummer Night's Dream was always my favorite it was always funny to me when the actor ended up having the head of an donkey..Anyway, I'm getting kind of off topic." He tended to amble around even when he thought back on his childhood, it was all a bit out of order and hazy, like bits and pieces had been cut out or rearranged where they didn't belong. Still, despite it and what he was sharing he still was enjoying their walk really having any destination in mind. It made it easier for him to get it out.


    "See where my dad bought the land there was a lot of tensions between the local sheepherders. Well, it had been going on a while and that's why my dad got the land so cheap. I guess the cows got into one of the pastures the sheepherders had all their sheep in. The sheep got out and the herders lost their profits for the year. I guess a bunch of the herders got to drinking one night and they all thought they needed to get even with my dad." Clyde looked ahead as he said this clearing his throat as he tried to think of the shortest way to say it. "So, a liquored up mob came to our house and started shooting all our animals dead. Dad thought he could stop them..he couldn't. Ma tried to keep us in the house, but she saw them drop him and ran out. They were so drunk they got her too..." His voice was quiet almost a whisper by the end. Saying it hurt like a punch right in the gut. Sighing he still squeezed her hand looking at her for a few long moments for her reaction.

    Marigold quietly listened, to everything around them, but mainly him. She was excited to learn about him, but he didn't seem overly happy about bringing up his past, and that made her worried. She listened on in silence as he began speaking, gently rubbing her thumb against his hand in an almost comforting fashion as he spoke. She was smiling, it sounded like a good backstory... Until he brought up the second part. Her smile disappeared and she had stopped walking, watching him carefully as he spoke. She'd never seen a man broken so fast, and she wasn't entirely sure how to react. Shifting, she brought him into a hug, holding him against her tenderly. She knew not all men wanted to be hugged, but when was the last time Clyde had felt the comfort and warmth of one? Especially from someone who cared about him. "I'm sorry." She said tenderly, letting go of him only so she could look at him. "But I reckon it made you a stronger man," She offered a small smile, placing her hand on his cheek before she drew away, not wanting to keep him too long.


    If it was any consolation, she knew how he felt. She'd lost it all at a fairly young age too... Maybe it was why they got along so well or at least one of the reasons why. She did take hold of his hand and again brought a smile to her face. "Thank you for sharin' with me Clyde... I'm sure it wa'n't easy." She gave his hand a soft squeeze before she looked back the way they had come. It was best that they start heading back before it started to get dark. The day hadn't gotten too far along, but the sun would only be up in the sky for a few more hours now. It was crazy to believe that days could come and go so quickly. With a sigh, she turned back and gently tugged for him to follow. "We oughta get back, probably find a place soon for the night." She murmured, before falling silent once again. She kept an ear out for their surroundings, but she doubted anything would show up- it was hard to sneak up on anyone in the forest.

    He hadn't expected the hug and he stiffened at it at first before relaxing. "Thanks." He mumbled returning her look, most of it was dead and gone now, just the old memories bringing it back. He had his own ways of moving on with it. Before his horse got swiped he always carried a book of plays in his saddle bags and read them to himself. Clyde appreciated her more and more. Giving a somewhat weary smile he nodded and turned to follow her back towards the horses and Ryker. He hadn't realized they had gone quite a ways. "I'm glad I did. I promise it gets less depressing." He chuckled moving on. He'd said it and he was glad he gotten it off his chest to someone. It wasn't a pretty start, but he had come back from it. Maybe that's why he seemed to be like to laugh so much. Righting his hat he kept his eyes peeled for any signs of anyone. It was quiet around them except for their footfalls as they walked. He wondered what Ryker was doing this entire time. He did feel a little bad leaving the guy, not that he seemed to mind one way or another. As they emerged out of the woods he chuckled looking down at her hand in his still. "You're going to have to let go." He pointed out with a slight smile before slowly releasing his own grip. Man it was going to be weird trying to keep from just staring at her the entire time they rode. Now he felt like a love sick dope.


    Walking ahead a bit he parted the branches for her whistling as Ryker came into a view. "Sorry got a bit lost sight seeing." He shrugged going to check the cinch on his horse's saddle. Tightening up so his saddle wouldn't slip out from under him he patted the horse's neck. He glanced over his shoulder at Mari and then at Ryker. "We ready to go now?" He asked hoping they wouldn't have to ride all night like they had a couple days ago. That had been extremely brutal, he only wanted to do something like that as few times as possible. Otherwise he was gonna start falling asleep in the saddle, which would be a pretty embarrassing thing to have happen.

    Marigold noticed he stiffened, but she didn't withdraw, not right away. She knew he'd move away if he wanted her to stop before she did. To amuse him, she gave a soft laugh when he promised it would get less depressing, and smiled at him tenderly, "hasn't it already?" she questioned with a soft tilt of her head. Her optics refocused ahead of her when they began moving again. She didn't feel looking around spastically would actually help her being on the lookout, so she only looked when she deemed it necessary to look in that direction. She did find herself pausing on him each time her eyes happened to glance in that direction, and just appreciating all that he was... but that was the sickness they called love. Honestly, she couldn't say she was going to look for a cure.


    As they neared the clearing with the river where they had left Ryker, she sighed. She knew she had to let go of his hand, but that didn't mean she wanted to. She stole a quick kiss and then moved out of the brush with Clyde at her side. Ryker looked over- he was down to his underwear but he had been pulling his pants on as they walked out. "Finally." He snorted, rising to his feet. With how clean he now appeared, one could only assume he'd taken a dip, and Mari honestly cursed herself for not doing the same when she had the chance. She followed Clyde over to the horses and checked on her own. She didn't need to tighten anything, but she did just give the creature a little bit of life. "Aye, I reckon we 'ead towards Bulls Creek, little ways away. I kno' a place wheres we can rest for the eve'in'." Ryker replied to the man. He finished getting dressed before he went to get on his horse. He watched as Marigold got on with some difficulty, and he softly narrowed his eyes. He didn't say anything however as he got on his own horse, and began to lead the way again, crossing the stream quite easily. Marigold waited for Clyde to get on his horse and then brought hers to be next to him, sending a quick smile his way before she rested one hand on the horn of the saddle and the other at her side. "'Urry up!" Ryker barked back at them, gaining some distance on them already. "It ain't good if Ryker knows a place," Marigold said honestly, giving her head a small shake, "Gotta mean it's a cat-house." It was a different way to call the place a brothel, because ultimately- why did a sheriff leave a town for any other reason? Especially Ryker.

    Clyde raised a brow as he looked briefly over at Ryker when they had first come out of the bushes. Good thing they hadn't come a couple minutes earlier who knows what they would have been treated to. He didn't have any objections to going to Bulls Creek. All the towns in this area were about the same, the law was lax until they saw someone with a big enough bounty on their head. So, he hoped that he wouldn't be recognized and he think they all hoped that Mari wouldn't get recognized because it was likely they would try and shoot her dead right then and there. That's the problem you face when you decide to fall in love with a wanted criminal. It was going to take some time for him to get used to this fact. He managed to get himself into the saddle, but cursed for a moment when he had to haul himself up with his arm. Sighing as he sat down in the saddle he fell in along side her as they went off across the stream. He didn't seem like he was in all that big of hurry himself just riding beside Marigold was fine with him. Giving his horse plenty of rein he only glanced over at Ryker even when he was insisting they hurry up. Clyde wasn't very good at following orders from lawmen even when they were on the same side.


    Turning his attention back to Marigold as they came out of the stream, his horse's belly dripping wet. "I figured it was probably something along those lines." Shaking his head slightly he did smile. He couldn't say he hadn't visited a few cat houses, but he doubted he was going to be able to even look at anyone else beside Mari tonight. "I stopped going to brothels when one of the girls pulled a damn knife of me and tried to arrest me and turn me in for the reward money." The outlaw shook his head slightly. Luckily that cat-house was no where near here. Still, he was rather cautious of those girls. "Hopefully they have some rooms for just sleeping." Looking out ahead out how much ground Ryker had gained on them he shrugged. "Probably shouldn't let him leave us too far in the dust." He suggested kicking up his horse to pick up a jog and seemed to not stray too far from her still.

    Even Marigold couldn't deny that Bull's Creek sounded like a good plan... But it posed its risks just as much as any other town. There was no saying what could or would happen. Both of them were really relying on Ryker's influence, but his name was sullied by the company he kept, and she did feel bad about that much. She looked over at Clyde as he rode next to her, and chuckled softly as she felt her horse shiver under her body as it exited the water. She ran a hand through her hair, removing her hat before she placed it back, and leaned back on the creature, feeling her legs strain gently. She felt sore, but she wasn't used to this much activity, even if she didn't want to admit that. She listened to the man however when he spoke, her gaze filled with curiousity but also contentment.


    Nodding slowly to his words, she silently agreed. "I myself was never into them," She joked, a small smile on her face as she continued, "yet... I have been to a few- men are too grabby." She admitted, watching his face before glancing at Ryker. He did have a point that they shouldn't get too far behind. Gently clasping her lip between her teeth, she kicked the horse forward and kept pace with Clyde's. She was glad she had admitted things to him and was even more glad to see that what he had said was proven by his actions... It was a welcome change. She looked back ahead of herself and slowed only when they caught up to Ryker, the man's tense figure relaxing when they were finally behind him again, yet he said nothing. He just glanced over his shoulder and stared at Marigold. She blinked, gently cocking her head as he kept his gaze on her for an extended period of time before looking away. What was his problem?

    Shifting his hat so it was sitting right on his head when the trees started to thin out again Clyde smiled ever so slightly with seeing her horse was still even with his. Clyde slowed his horse when the distance between them and Ryker was closed again. It probably wasn't a good idea to stray too far in this country. Although it might seem more hospitable there were still a lot of outlaws and thieves looking for an easy target, so he didn't want to make himself an easy target. "I hope you at least gave them a good slap across the face for it." He shrugged thinking it was a bit funny when a guy who got too excited got the slap or kick right to the loins that he deserved. Whistling as they rode a long he relaxed the grip on his reins laying his hand on the horse's neck looking out towards the horizon. He did have a bit of a curious look on his face catching the lawman looking back at Marigold for the longest time. It was a strange sight he was curious about.


    The outlaw glanced at Marigold only to see she was just as confused over the look at his was. "Who put a snake in his saddle bags?" He asked clearly curious why Ryker was looking at her without bothering to say anything about it. The outlaw didn't seem too concerned really since it could just be the kind of person Ryker was. Still, it wasn't a terribly comforting thought that Ryker might have chip or something on his shoulder. Of course he could have just gotten wise to the fact Clyde and her were practially stuck together at the hip all of a sudden. Scratching his chin he shrugged not dwelling on it too much. He went back to his observing and occasionally letting his eyes wander to Marigold.

    Marigold gave a small shrug when Clyde asked her, "Ain't a clue in the world." She responded quietly- almost as if she didn't want Ryker to notice. It almost had looked like... longing, but that was hard to believe. Ryker knew how she felt about Clyde or at least had an idea, and that wasn't going to change. But maybe Ryker himself was lonely and longed for something like what they had. But again... that was hard to believe! Ryker could have any woman he wanted if he played his cards right. The questions only made her head pound, and the sun that now began to beat down on them didn't help a headache that was growing because of it. She did keep head eyes straight ahead, but she too let her gaze wander to Clyde ever now and then, and sometimes she met his eyes. Instead of shying away like she might have before, however, she allowed herself to smile.


    Falling silent after the small discussion, she peered at the sky. She could see birds circling, and only bit her tongue in invisible disgust. She hated those vultures, even if they helped take care of the rotting flesh of animals and... other things, that didn't make them less gross. Something about them was just ominous, and it didn't sit right in the pit of her stomach. She was snatched from her focus however when Ryker picked up the pace, and she was forced to do the same. "I ain't likin' how them vultures are circlin'," Ryker murmured, glancing towards the sky as well, "there's bound to be too many bad thins'." Marigold only felt solemn hearing that, and she felt her jaw clench at the idea of what they might be eating. "Maybe we should steer clear?" She asked, and Ryker nodded. Turning them away, he went slightly left, glancing again at the birds. Was it possible that Loxkrow's men had made it out here? No... Under supervision they stayed at Barrow Peak- that was where outlaws visited most. But with so many on the run... perhaps it was possible. Especially with her father gone... they had no King to lead them. They had no rules they had to follow.

    Clyde sometimes found himself wondering what was going on in everyone else's heads. Well it wasn't hard to tell what Marigold was thinking about when their eyes caught each other and she would smile. He'd smile back and after a moment go back to look at the horizon and Ryker ahead of him. Whatever was eating at him was his own business. The pace they were making was getting them there in decent time although they still had a ways to go when the lazy circling birds came into view. He frowned when he saw them making their rounds over something..or someone that was going to meet their maker soon. He was paying close attention where the birds looked down to. They were looking straight below themselves maybe trying to decide if their victim still had any pulse. An optimist would hope it was just an animal, maybe an escaped cow or horse, but he wasn't so sure.


    Rubbing the bandaged part of his arm he had no objections to steering clear. Those damn birds were never a good thing, even if they didn't understand all the discomfort and unease they brought with them. Steering his horse along with the other two he kept an eye on the birds as they rode. He seemed a little more serious now. It being an animal was not a risk he was willing to take right now. Being left in the desert to die once made him not particularly want to do it again. The horse seemed catch his tensing up and responded by carrying its head up higher and giving an uneasy snort. Pausing the outlaw softly mumbled soothing words to the horse uncoiling some of the tense muscles to keep the horse from bolting on him. He patted the horse neck, but kept his free hand rested very close to his holster just in case. The horse at least stopped panicking, but was still very much on edge. Clyde drew in a deep breath glancing Marigold's way. She seemed to have her own theories about what buzzards meant. He didn't like them one way or another and was a little bit glad when he saw the outline of Bulls Creek carved out in the distant horizon.

    To see Bull's Creek breaching the horizon nearby gave Marigold a sense of relief. Yet, she still felt uneasy about the birds. They were a sign, and not a good one, but it certainly wasn't something she had wanted to dwell on. Quickly looking away, she focused on the shadowed outlines of the buildings, with the setting sun casting rays along the landscape, it made it look beautiful, and gave her a small sense of security and comfort, not that she understood why. As they got closer, Ryker hopped off his horse and decided to walk the rest of the way in. Marigold did the same, and glanced at Clyde, waiting for him before she followed after Ryker. This town had a stable for horses, and the owner after being paid a few coins was more than happy to let their horses stay overnight. Marigold kept with Ryker as he moved about, but hesitated when they got to the building which she knew was the brothel. There was an inn here- but it was closed for the night already, they weren't going to accept more people. Plus, the two men that had been stationed outside of it didn't seem to take kindly to strangers.


    Ryker pushed in through the door of the brothel, and slowly glanced around. He knew quite a few faces here but wandered away to find them rooms for the night. Marigold entered after him and found herself gazing at the other men and women here. The women were put on show like objects, and that was something she hated. Yet, she understood that this was their lifestyle and many of them had picked it for themselves. She kept a close eye on Clyde however, ready to deter any woman that might try and approach him... She felt mildly embarrassed that she was protective of him, but was concerned about how beautiful some of these women were. She herself was only human... and she was a woman. She couldn't help she had her own insecurities when so many of these women were confident about what they had. Silently, she moved towards where she had seen Ryker go, her hand having gently clasped Clyde's as she moved past him just to make sure she didn't lose him in this mess. The men in here weren't horrible looking either, but there were a lot fewer men than woman, and many were... preoccupied. The noise was almost unbearable, the laughing, loud chattering, the shrieking laughs and clinking of glass... all of it was giving Marigold a headache. She'd be glad to be out of this and in a room, even if it didn't rid of all the noise it would be a lot quieter than being right in the midst of all of this.

    Clyde and his horse both perked up as they neared Bulls Creek. It was good to see a town again, even if they were headed to the cat-house. It took him some time to get himself off his horse, not from his arm, but because his stiff joints from riding most of the day. Yawning and stretching he patted the horse before handing it over to the owner. After walking a bit he worked the stiffness out of his joints and walked with Marigold to follow Ryker through town. He wasn’t terribly familiar with more then the outline of the buildings. He had ridden past, but had been laying low last time he came through. Probably strolling around town wasn’t the smartest idea, but hey he figured the heat was dying down on him,especially if his former associate had been bragging about killing him. Pushing his way into the brothel it was hard not to see the women, since they were literally in every direction. He kept his eyes ahead or to glance over at Marigold to make it clear he wasn’t looking. He did get the attention of a few girls one starting to make a step towards him, until he stared her dead in the eye and shook his head before turning to follow Marigold through the crowd.


    Letting her lead him through the crowd he didn’t look around too much. If he was really looking he probably knew at least someone, one of the patrons or one of the women. He figured it was better to just not look at any faces. He had a feeling this was going to be a long night. Mostly cause the rooms here had thin walls and there wasn’t normally just sleeping in mind. Making his way the room he took off his hat rubbing his temple. It was pretty noisy downstairs. The outlaw’s suspicions were correct. It wasn’t much quieter up here. Without realizing it he had accidentally followed into Marigold into her own room instead of going into the room that wasn’t supposed to be for him. He chuckled nervously and glanced towards the door. “Sorry I wasn’t thinking.” He didn’t mean to just go barging into her room like that. He was still trying to figure out how their relationship had changed and what that meant overall. He wasn’t exactly known for sticking around to sort out the emotions that went with this kind of stuff.