miserable at best || LEWT

[Rio Daniels]

She didn't honestly know how it had come to this. She wasn't a drinker. She hated the stuff. It was like Satan's drink, or so her mother had called it so many years ago. At the very thought of her mother though, Rio felt her heart drop. That was how this had escalated. She had started thinking about her ma and pa and things had just gotten out of control. Everything was fine before Weldon Campbell showed up in the Saloon. She was good and drunk, but she was about ready to leave. However, his simple presence had stalled her, and when she heard his name, it was something that sobered her. It was something that made her remember things that she didn't want to recall. Rio had put the memories of her family at bay for so long because it was just easier. It was safer, and the heartbreak lessened every time that she didn't think about them. Her father's face, always smiling, his blue eyes always holding laughter. She had gotten her eyes from him. And then there was her mother. She was always proper, a real lady of the ranch. She had taught Rio, or rather, she had tried to teach Rio how to be a lady, but it never worked out.

The point was, Rio missed her mother and father dearly. Watching them die was something that she had never forgiven herself for. She had run like a coward instead of staying to help them. Her father had tried defending the ranch for as long as he could, but Rio was witness to his throat being cut. As for her mother's fate...well that was something she didn't even want to imagine. The Native Americans had taken her, only to do who knew what to her. Shuddering at the very thought, Rio stumbled out of the Inn bar that she had taken up residence in for the time being. She had been denied anymore alcohol at the Saloon so she had found another place to drown her sorrows in. Turns out that it was acceptable for men to get completely sloshed, but when it came to young women, it was deemed inappropriate. She would give them inappropriate. Rio was not afraid to do anything that got the attention of the townspeople. She was brazen, she was an outlaw. She'd do whatever she wanted. But right now, she was so drunk that she could barely stand, let alone make a scene.

Whistling, or trying to, she tried to get the attention of her stallion. West was hitched outside of the Inn and he was watching his rider with a rather bored expression on his face. Rio held onto the railing and nearly tumbled down the steps, absolutely trashed beyond belief. She shouldn't have had more to drink after the Saloon but she had felt too much pain. She didn't want to feel anymore. And right now, she certainly didn't feel pain. She felt like she had lost her mind. Stumbling to her stallion's side, she spoke in slurred tones. "Ya couldn't m-move a bit closer, ya b-brute?" She chided him thoughtlessly, then untied his reins with a bit of an issue. Finally succeeding in freeing him, she slung the reins over the saddle horn and clumsily lifted her left foot into the stirrup. It took a few tries but she finally had herself over West's back. Right now, she had her stomach in the middle of the saddle though and she was doing her best to push her right leg over to the other side of the saddle. Finally getting herself situated, she held onto the horn and asked West to go forward. They'd return to the hide out. She knew she'd be okay there.

It took forever.

She fell more times than she could count and it always took a good five minutes to drag her drunken form back in the saddle. It was like she had lost complete control of her body. This was awful. How could anyone want to be like this? She was never going to drink again. She just couldn't handle it. When the gang hide out finally came into view, she sighed in absolute relief. The boys were out back. She could hear them shouting and causing a ruckus. Riding West out there, she put a smile on her face, hoping that she looked alright in their eyes. The men noticed her almost instantly and started greeting her. She waved in response and finally saw Lewt. Relief swam through her and she asked West to head over to him. When she reached him, she started to clamber clumsily out of the saddle, which had the men questioning her state of being immediately. Everything about Rio was normally rather graceful so they were a bit thrown off. And then....it happened.

As Rio was about to dismount, her boot got stuck in her stirrup and she landed flat on her back rather unceremoniously. The wind was knocked clear from her lungs and she looked up at Lewt with a stunned expression in her blue eyes. "I ain't drunk." She managed to stammer out, her words completely slurred. The men burst out in roaring laughter and she couldn't help but smile innocently up at the man who had claimed her heart.

[Lewt McConnell]

Lewton McConnell, much like the other Les Coureur Enfers, had spent the day bathing in their riches. It was as if it was a ritual. Arrogantly bragging about their skills, tossing about their money, and playing out each scenario until it drove someone mad. Each of the members had their own definite pride of the gang. They had worked strenuously long to build it up to what it was. It was a band of mischievous yet highly skilled outlaws. Around the hide out, they lived a fulfilled lifestyle. The hide-out was intricately decorated with a abundance of lavish furniture. Persian rugs from overseas. Archaic, yet solid mahogany tables. China ornaments as well as kitchenware. It was the wealthy life all of them had dreamed of living.

On this particular evening Lewton engaged himself in tasks other than drinking and lusting. While the others enjoyed their time lounging, gambling, and chasing after the hide-out women; Lewton wood carved. It was rather amusing to the other members of the gang, however, Lewton did it as a gift. Surprisingly, he was good too. He had always been good at creating something out of nothing. He had worked on the tedious project since Rio had left and had progressed greatly. The once thick block of oak had slowly been sculpted into the shape of a horse. Not any horse, no. He had managed to define the obscure horse in such a way to add features of her stallion, Wes. Certainly, after time the sculpture had took his looks.

It was when he was defining the last lines of the horse, he found Rio riding up. Sitting on the porch with one knife in hand and the men beside him, he looked up to greet Rio with a smile. His girl. It was still fresh in his mind. It had been a rough start with her. His temptations still arose for other women from time to time, however, he had always managed to remind himself. He wasn’t going to loose Rio for those women. He had done his time with women and he was finally done. “Howdy, freckles. How’s my girl today?” The others watched Rio intently. They all were still curious about the woman as well.

His eyes, downward, shot up at the sudden fall. It sounded painful and he stood up quickly, frowning. However, it was clear by what she said that she was intoxicated. The others roared with hearty laughter and Lewt himself couldn’t help but smirk. “Oh, I’m certain ya ain’t. Look at that look in yer eyes. Ya jus’ as sober as ya possibly coul’ be.” He chuckled and set the knife on a nearby table. He moved quickly down from the porch and helped her up. “Now, what in god’s name ya been drinkin’, freckles? Holy hell you smell lik’ a goddamned brewery.” Surprised he pulled the slender woman up against him.

“Hell, ya look good.” His brows arched mischievously as he held her against him. Furrowing his brow he looked down at his right hand. He handed the figure of Wes to her. “I reckon I made ya something’. Been a long time since I wa’ wood carvin’. I ‘pose if ya don’ like it just throw it away.” He shrugged nonchalantly then pulled away. “So how was the good ol’ Blackbird Saloon? An’ fights break out?”

[Rio Daniels]

She couldn't believe the state of being she was in right now. She had never, ever wanted to drink before and it still surprised her that she had been able to stomach as much as she had without losing it all later on. She didn't feel as if she was spinning at the moment which was a good thing. She was sure to lose her lunch if she started spinning in any way and if that happened, she wasn't going to be attractive to anyone, especially Lewt. So now, as she tried to keep her composure in front of the man who had just asked her to be his girl, she realized she had no hope whatsoever. She had consumed entirely way too much and that was obvious. As the men studied the slim girl in front of them, she knew that they were going to laugh. And she wouldn't blame them. She had actually become quite fond of them all, especially Jeremiah. Their relationship had been rocky at best in the beginning but now he was more of a brotherly figure to her than any of the other men in the gang. She had an affection for him and it was something that she appreciated. She could distinguish his laugh among the others and it honestly just made her smile. She really did feel like she belonged here and she was thankful to them all.

Sighing softly, she remained on her back on the ground because in all honesty, it was just easier that way. She had heard his greeting before, calling her Freckles, and it made her smile. "I like t-that nickname b-boss." She stuttered out rather adorably, and the men couldn't help but chuckle. She wasn't going to be able to live this down. Not for a while. She was constantly on them for their drinking habits and she had every right to do that. Before today. Now, she couldn't say a word and they certainly wouldn't let her get away with it if she tried to chide them once more. Here she was, as drunk as could be, when it had seemed certain that she'd never get involved with the liquid. It was all rather comical, but if they had known why she gotten herself into such a state, they might actually feel bad for the agile young woman. Rio hadn't told anyone about her story. They didn't know why she was here, or why she was an outlaw. She hadn't even spoken to Lewt about who she was or where she was from. Anytime anyone questioned her about her past, she always deflected them, changing the subject quickly.

It was that mystery that drew a lot of the men to her. They wanted to figure out what made her the way that she was. It was interesting to be perfectly honest. But that wasn't what was important now. What mattered was that the girl who had sworn off drinking was now flat on her back on the ground because she was absolutely intoxicated. Rio was aware of her stallion nosing around her body now, wondering why in the world she was on the ground and not up on his back. Rio never fell. It was something that she had grown accustomed to associating with failure. And if she failed when she was on her own, like before, she could lose her life. So, she couldn't fall off of her stallion. That was what it all came down to. Her drunk mind wasn't even making sense right now. She didn't know why she was suddenly thinking about falling off of her horse and it being a life or death situation. Confused, she furrowed her brow, but then was aware of Lewt speaking once more. He was teasing her and while if she was sober, she'd snap right back at him. Right now though, she could only smile, and a rather adorable giggle came forth from her mouth. "Baby, I ain't touched a drop of alcohol." She tried admitting seriously, but that back fired as he helped her to her feet.

She swayed as she stood upright, reaching forward to grab his arms to keep herself balanced. Another giggle escaped her, her long brunette hair tied back in another braid. It was a good thing because if it wasn't, it would be all over the place. "Hiya handsome." She greeted him playfully, winking as she spoke to him. A laugh escaped her once more, and then she heard his comment about the brewery. Furrowing her brow, she leaned against him, trying to remember what she had taken a drink of. "Well I reckon I asked the bar tender fer what was good, and they kept 'em pourin'. Everyone else kept buyin' me drinks." She admitted honestly. The men had bought her her drinks. Rio hadn't touched a single one of them, but there had been many that were eying her hungrily. What she didn't realize was that they were buying her drinks so that they could get her good and liquored up. It was in their best intentions to take advantage of her in her intoxicated state. She frowned now, looking up at Lewt. "This one brute got too close for my likin' when I was at the Inn, and I punched him. And then I got kicked out, baby. Can ya believe that?" She asked him incredulously, looking up at him with her wide blue eyes.

The men started chuckling about her trouble making ways, wanting to stick around to see where this was going to lead. Rio looked to Lewt now for approval even in her intoxicated state. She had missed him and a part of her wished she hadn't left him today. Then she wouldn't have met Weldon Campbell. Then she wouldn't be thinking about her mom and dad. Furrowing her brow, she heard Lewt said that he had made her something and her sad eyes brightened momentarily. "Ya didn't have to do that, baby." She said tenderly, looking down as he placed the figure of her horse in her hand. It looked just like him and for a moment she stood there in shock. Then, she threw her arms around Lewt, holding the figurine carefully in her hand. "It's beautiful. It looks just like 'im! I ain't gonna throw this away, ya crazy fool!" She slurred out, still as drunk as ever. Pulling away from him after giving him a kiss on his cheek, she stared at the figurine, listening as he questioned her. "It's awful boring at that there Saloon. But...I...well..." She furrowed her brow after a moment and looked up at him, looking pained. "I met a man there who knew my Pa.." She said honestly, trying to blink away the tears that filled her eyes. She couldn't believe she was getting emotional, but it was happening now.

[Lewt McConnell]

He understood. Hell, he’d been ten times more intoxicated and still managed to live. It seemed every chance he got that drunk the boys bailed him off to the doctor just to see if he’d live or not. He could drink. He could also just as easily forgot how much he drank. There had been countless moments were he awoke on top of the kitchen table, behind the bar of the Saloon, and in the most obscure places. Some might of thought he had a bad drinking problem. However, he knew it was just bad habits. If the temptation of stopping would cross his mind, he would do it. He had a taste for alcohol. Even he had a taste for going out of his mind if the occasion called for it. Oh, and was there many occasions.

His hair bristled in the dry, desert breeze as he looked down at Rio. It was damn hot. The sun showered them in unearthly heat as he stood with her in his arms. His brows furrowed as he stared down at her, his smile fading as he realized how intoxicated she was. “I hope I ain’t per’uadin’ ya to drink, now.” He brushed a couple of long locks from her face as he watched her, concerned. It was the truth, he would feel remorse if he had shown her the ways of drinking. As much as he enjoyed it even he knew that it was an unhealthy lifestyle. Not to be lived by his girl. “Ya like that one, freckles? I thin’ it suits ya. Ya know, those pretty thin’s cross your nose. It’s rather pretty.” He pursed his lips softly on her forehead before parting.

“Get a room, ya hear!” Shouted one of the men sarcastically from the porch. Mischievously, Lewt looked over his shoulder and laughed. “I reckon yer jealous, kiddo.” The sound of laughter soon followed from the direction of the porch. He continued to press Rio close to him as he sighed. “I reckon I’m gone have to come wit’ ya to the Saloon next time ‘round. Hm? So ya don’ get into any trouble. Hell, don’ want that to happen. Duke woul’ be mighty upset wit’ me if he knew my lil’ lady was causin’ a ruckus.” He teased and looked down at her. “I’m sure ya haven’t touched one drop of booze, ya ain’t slurrin’ yer words none.” He prompted, his raspy voice growing softer.

He shook his head as she explained to him about the situation at the Blackbird Saloon. She was more amusing acting then when she had first met him. However, he couldn’t complain. Rio knew how to give them all a good laugh in her own way. She had a sense of humor when she wanted to. “Well, I’m glad ya like it. Been a long while since I was ah’carvin’. ‘pose I knew you’d ‘preciate it.” He cocked his head back at the men and continued. “Between you an’ me both, that’s why I never made one of ‘em fools over there a little figure. They ain’t the gift ‘preciatin’ type.” He joked. “What’d ya say, Lewt?” Lewton shrugged.

He touched her chin, just gentle enough to peer into her pooling up blue eyes. He felt her sadness strike him. He hadn’t ever seen her even the slightest bit sad. Perhaps, it was more so the alcohol inducing such overpowering emotions but it spoke the truth. “Let’s go on a walk, freckles. It’s alrigh’.” He placed his hand gently on her back as he led her towards the direction of the small barn behind the building. He spoke louder as he led her away. “Y’all righ’? Did he tell ya anythin’ important?”

[Rio Daniels]

She wished that she hadn't touched a drop of that alcohol. She wished that she could go back to the beginning of the day and plan something with Lewt. She would have loved to spend the day with him and she knew that the gang didn't have any robberies planned. It would have been a happier day for her, that was for certain. Besides, she wanted to get to know Lewt more even though she had been spending more and more time with him. Sighing, it was at this moment that she wished she didn't have such an independent spirit. She knew that Lewt understood and that he would never mind her going off on her own because it was her way, but she wished she had more control. Then she wouldn't be in this predicament and she certainly wouldn't feel the tug at her heart that she felt. It was embarrassing really and she was going to hate herself for it later on. Especially when she wouldn't be able to live it down amongst the men at a later date. It was going to be pure hell for her, but her inebriated mind didn't have the sense to tell her to curb herself in.

Standing in front of Lewt in the hot desert sun made Rio feel more sick to her stomach. The breeze didn't even do her justice, for it was hot against her flushed skin. Nothing could cool her off and she found she wanted to strip right down to her undergarments to get herself from feeling like she was on fire. Trying not to give away the fact that she was entirely uncomfortable, Rio looked up at Lewt once more, listening to his words and taking note of the worried expression on his face. Well that was something that she wasn't expecting. Reaching up, she placed a gentle hand on the side of his cheek, her thumb stroking along his jawline. "It ain't you Lewt. Promise." She reassured him, her slurred words trying to sound sober. She was doing the best that she could but she was tiny, and the amount she had consumed could be considered a substantial amount for someone of her stature.

It was then that he was questioning her about the new nickname, and her thoughts were turned away from his guilt and his concern, which had honestly touched her heart. She smiled as he kissed her forehead and then wrapped her arms around his waist despite the heat. "Ya can call me that anytime ya want." She whispered to him, blushing when one of the men yelled at them to get a room. However, Lewt made quick work of the situation by deeming that they were just jealous, which received more chuckles from the crowd. Comforted by his steady, strong presence, Rio clung to his waist now, her slender body crammed up against his for added support. She didn't want to move from this very spot. She felt like she could sober up by being in his arms alone, so that's what she planned on doing. The men would take care of her stallion, for they had done it before, and already a couple of them were making their way from the porch to take care of the paint. Rio would have to thank them later. Listening once more to her man, she sighed softly, content, but smiled a bit when she heard him. "I ain't gonna soil yer name Lewt, don't ya worry yer pretty little head. That's why I fought at the Inn, not at the Saloon. But a buncha men were at the Saloon when I was there first thing. I promise I ain't gonna cause no ruckuses no more." She finished tiredly, still slurring her words. This alcohol was making her sleepy, as well as emotional.

Rio still stayed with him, which was highly unlike her. She loved to be in Lewt's arms, there was no doubting that, but she never leaned against him like this. She never wanted him to think that she was solely dependent on him, but right now, it didn't matter to her. She did need him. She did want him, especially in this moment. He would know how to make her feel better. He would know what to do so that she could stop her stomach from spinning. She didn't want to do anything embarrassing in front of him or the men but it seemed as if it had already happened. She was distracted from her thoughts as he started speaking about his carvings and the men. Furrowing her brow, she muttered into his chest. "Well, I reckon they don't deserve yer carvins then Lewt. They're somethin' special, and they deserve to be 'ppreciated." She said honestly despite her state of mind. She would tell him what she truly thought and felt no matter if she was sober or drunk. Everyone here knew that.

Feeling his gentle touch to her chin, she brought her eyes up to look at him, overcome with her sadness over what had occurred between her and Weldon. He hadn't done anything wrong, but the fact that he brought up all of her memories was something that didn't sit well with her. Turning from the men as Lewt guided her, she clung to him even as they walked, afraid that she'd fall flat on her face if she let go of him. "Hold on, Lewt." When they reached the back barn, Rio couldn't take the heat any longer. Un-tucking her shirt from her pants, she unbuttoned it quickly, revealing the white sleeveless shirt she had beneath it. Stripping herself of the long sleeved cotton shirt, she tossed it over one of the fence posts, not caring at the moment that she had just revealed herself more than she ever had to Lewt before. "It's so damn hot. My stomach's on fire." She admitted to him, but then heard his gentle question. She was trying not to think about it, she was trying to change the subject, but he knew. She sighed softly and looked down as she felt the tears swell in her eyes. One escaped despite her efforts and traveled down her cheek. She refused to look at him. She was embarrassed to be crying in front of him. "Not really. Confirmed that everyone believed me to be dead though. I just..it made me remember things that I thought I'd forgotten." She finished devastatingly, not knowing how to handle this situation now.

[Lewt McConnell]

Hell, the only way to keep from frying in this heat was to go swimming in the murky waters of the desert. The sun was blinding. Scorching down upon them with intensity. The air of them was parched. The earth cracked from dehydration. His brows knitted close together in order to avoid the strength of the sunlight from blinding him. He could feel the subtle perspiration form at his brow. damn, it was getting hotter by the minute. Deep in the midst of the day temperatures often soared to exponential highs. It was phenomenal but that was the way it was out in the desert. His light eyes, shielded briefly by his hand, looked down upon her. Watching her hair glow luminously within the heavy rays of light cast down upon her. “I believe ya.” He nodded reassuringly. Certainly, it couldn’t have been him. He had been as straight as an arrow since he pronounced she had been his girl. He was unused to it, but he was growing quite fond of this young woman.

He brought his hand under her chin. His rough fingers running down her smooth jaw line. She was divine. Picturesque. He closed his eyes as he felt the warmth of her skin. However, he opened them soon after. “I ‘pect I call ya that. I figured ya’d like it. I like it. It suits ya. An’ ya know me I need t’ give ya a nickname. Rio ain’t good enough.”

[/b] He teased and ran his hand down her neck to her shoulders. “I ‘pose ya’d have a pet name for me too? Hm, pretty lady?”

“Honey, your my girl. Ya got to ‘cause a bit of a ruckus. Your Rio Daniels. An’ that’s what the McConnell’s are known for. If ya gone be ’part of this family, I do believe a lil’ won’t hurt. Hell, Ezekiel is the only passive un’, we think he was hit in the head pretty hard as a chil’. Don’ know what the hell happened to him.” He always tried to make the best out of each situation. He enjoyed to laugh. It certainly appeased his life. He touched her again. His hands lingering upon her body. His eyes narrowed to the distance as he watched the men tend to Wes. They always had their back even when it came to the little situations.

He looked back at Rio with a smile pronounced upon his lips. “Oh, I reckon they don’. There’ll be many more to come, sweet darlin’. Let me tell you a lil’ bit ya don’ know about me. I’m a feller that works well with his hands. I ‘pose art is one of those ‘hands on’ tasks I’m good at. That, an...many others.” He drawled sarcastically as he gave her a eager look. Watching her strip the long sleeved shirt from her body. There was yet to be discovered between the two. Yet he had enough patience for her to wait forever. He followed her closely as they neared the back of the barn. “Ya want some water? It’ll help.” The well wasn’t far off. As dried up as it was, it produced some source of water.

“Say, you want to go swimming’. There’s one of ‘em waterin’ holes up in those canyons over yonder. It would feel mighty nice.” He offered, tiling his head questioningly. He frowned as she spoke again. His bleached brows furrowed in response. “Talk ‘bout it to me, freckles. It jus’ might help. It brought back bad memories? What happened?”[/blockquote]

[Rio Daniels]

She was going to need something to cool herself down quick or she was going to be sick. She now knew that she was never going to drink again. It had made her forget when she was taking part in the activity, but now that she wasn't drinking, she was thinking about what had happened between her and Weldon. She didn't want to remember her mother and father. She didn't want to think about what she had seen. She didn't want to realize that the last memory she had of them was them dying. It was too painful for her. For so long she had worked to build a wall around her heart. It kept her safe and protected and she didn't want to let that wall down. That wall meant security. But as she stood there with Lewt she realized that her walls were already down. He had gotten her to soften, he had worked his way into her heart. At first she had been terrified and now she was just more opened to the idea. Slowly she was trusting him more and more and it was a welcoming sensation. She was falling for Lewton McConnell, and she was falling hard.

And it seemed that he was trusting of her as well. When he announced that he believed her when she promised it wasn't him that had turned her to the drink, she nodded solemnly. She didn't want him blaming himself for something like this. She was a big girl. She could make her own choices, she could make her own decisions. It was her choice to drink and hers alone. Nothing that he said or did had influenced her in this situation and she honestly didn't want him to blame himself. Furrowing her brow with worry, she was about to make another comment about that matter, but he was rattling off about her nickname. Freckles. She liked it, loved it even. It gave her a place in her opinion. And he was right. She had a ton of freckles that she had deemed to be imperfections. Apparently he believed otherwise and she didn't mind him exploiting them in this fashion. Smiling slightly as he teased her, she gave him a small shove that wouldn't move him at all. "Rio better be good enough, cowboy. Or I'll haveta hit ya again." She challenged him, still smiling.

"I ain't figured outta nickname good enough fer ya yet. It has to be perfect and I can't think straight right now. But don't worry...it'll be a good one!" She stated honestly, her words still slurred, but not quite as much as before. The pain in her stomach and her head were beginning to sober her and it was clear that she wasn't feeling that well because of her flushed cheeks. The heat was not helping her situation in the least. She instantly felt more at ease when they were no longer under the scrutiny of the men though. She always felt more at ease when it was just Lewt and her. She also felt more at ease once she got her shirt off, even though she was still covered. She just wanted to cool off, somehow, some way. And it needed to be quick before she lost the contents of her stomach. She didn't want to be responsible for throwing up on Lewt's boots. He'd never forgive her. It was then that he told her he was alright with her causing a ruckus. That if she wanted to be a part of this family, it was expected, and that made her heart skip a beat. He...wanted her to be a part of this family? She knew it wasn't a proposal of any kind but it spoke about a future together. "Part of yer family?"

The question was innocent and not meant to shock him in any way. She didn't want him thinking that she thought he had just asked her to marry him or anything because that wasn't it at all. She was just trying to figure out the depth to their relationship. It was as simple as that. But he had her distracted yet again as he started talking about working with his hands and she suddenly felt very courageous. Offering him a playful look, she spoke up and said something rather unexpected from her. "I'd like ya to work yer hands on me." There. She had said it. Blushing immediately because of her brazen comment, she stepped back for a moment, trying to relax. It was alright to say those things around him. He was her boyfriend? Is that what she called him? Or was he the man she was seeing? She didn't understand the terminology used to explain their situation.

"Water would be good, swimming would be even better. Can we go?"

She asked him earnestly, stepping off in the direction that he had pointed out. She took his hand now, feeling more coherent and clear, but starting to feel more sick than before. She just needed to cool off. She knew that was what her body needed. It was why she was so uncomfortable now. As Lewt questioned her suddenly, Rio kept walking, trying to hide the pain from her face as she explained to him about her history. He deserved to know after he had been open with her the other night. He just...he was being so patient and so good and so gentle, and she felt like she wasn't giving him nearly enough in return. Taking a deep breath, she exhaled softly and kept pulling him in the direction of the swimming hole, speaking up as she went along. "When I was ten, there was an attack on my family's ranch by the Native Americans." She started in, knowing that if she stopped she wouldn't be able to continue on. "My pa put me up on West there and told me to take off, don't look back. Well..bein' the child that I was, I pulled 'im up on the ridge and watched my pa get his throat cut. And my ma...she was taken...I dunno what they did to her, but I can only 'magine." She finished, stopping short in her tracks as she continued her story.

"I tried to forget it Lewt, I really did. But seein' this man just...it's all so fresh again and I don't like this hurt."

[Lewt McConnell]

He could feel it in his bones. Even if she hadn’t wanted to say it, this had affected her tremendously. Whomever this man was he had drawn a sad spell unintentionally over Rio. Lewt could see it by the subtle tinge of sadness in her eyes. Her puckered, fuchsia lips. He took her chin into his broad hand once again and led her eyes up to his. His cornflower blue eyes stared dauntingly down into hers. He trusted her. Even as fresh their relationship he trusted her. Rio didn’t strike him as the type of woman to often chase her dreams with a man she so desired. No, she seemed like a one man type of woman. Fortunately, that one man had been himself. He was growing attached with each passing moment. Fear struck him from time to time. His scandalous ways was what he was most afraid of. However, he knew he could maintain himself as long as he didn’t drink too heavily.

Lewton looked up briefly at the blazing sky. The temperatures were rising by the minute. Perspiration was growing about his brows and temples. Without warning, he stripped the long sleeved plaid from himself and tossed it onto the ground. He felt comfortable revealing his bare skin. Hell, there was nothing to hide. “Good lor’, it is damn hot. Ain’t it.” He took the shirt and brushed it along his brow. The sun glazed against his shoulders, beaming brightly. “You know I ador’ ya name, Rio-darlin’. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with it. Jus’, pet names are all the more memorable.” He teased and gently shoved her back.

He leaned forward and pursed a kiss in the top of her forehead. His eyes dropping down to her defined face. Observing the gentle layout of freckles upon her sun kissed face. He pulled away and ran his fingers through her long hair. “I know ya will, freckles. I do know that.”

Rio had yet to meet her family. However, in some sense had already begun to accept her as one of them. As his girl, there was no way he couldn’t have her in his family. He tilted his head wryly, his long hair falling about him. “Ya my girl ain’t ya. That mean ya gone be apart of the McConnell family. Hell, Rio. I’m twenty-five, nearing twenty-six. ‘bout damned time I settle down. I ain’t sayin’ right away. I’m just sayin’...well I like ya quite a lot.” Hell, he had a hard time explaining things to her. She stared at him with those large, shapely ocean blue eyes. It made him long for her more.

Before he could have time to respond, he was stunned by the next comment. He had been with many women before. He had heard them speak their mind about their desires. However, he hadn’t expected it with Rio. Or at least any time soon. He was waiting. Waiting as patiently as he could. He looked at her blankly, no smile. Was she just saying it because she was intoxicated? Either way he had to be careful. He wanted to make it special. He shook his head. “Freckles, I’m very attracted to ya. I want ya lik’ no man’s wanted ya before I reckon. Jus’, let’s make it special. Ya know? Once I get started touchin’ ya I won’t-” He stopped and laughed. Hell, he was explaining it far too much.

He looked over in the direction of the canyons. “ ‘Course we can go. We‘ll take my horse, Lancaster. I reckon West needs some rest.” Without question he made his way to the corral. Eagerly, his bay horse made his way up towards him. Leading him towards the barn he motioned Rio to follow him as he saddled his horse down. He listened to her as he worked quickly. His brow furrowed as she spoke. He didn’t know. Hell, how couldn’t he have known. Their stories were familiar. “Baby, I had no idea.” He paused and looked at her, shaking his head.

“Ain’t no it hurt that bad, either. I‘m sorry, freckles. I know how it hurts.” He hesitated to tell her. “When I was jus’ a youngin’, I lived on a ol’ farm near Wichita, Kansas. My pa was slaughtered by Kiowa injuns. My brothers, sisters, an’ myself was taken captive by them. One of them warrior injuns took my sister Meta as his wife. Sun’bitch. Ezekiel, Laurabelle, and I escaped. Meta stayed there.” He finished saddling the horse and looked back at Rio. “Ya think your mamma still alive?”

[Rio Daniels]

Rio hadn't felt this kind of hurt since she was ten years old. She hadn't experienced this kind of paralyzing pain since she had watched her father die at the hands of the Native Americans. She hadn't allowed herself to feel like this and she damned the alcohol in her system. It could be the only explanation. She hated it. She hated herself. She couldn't believe that she had believed that drinking would be a good idea. But how could she have known that she would have run into Weldon Campbell? Furrowing her brow, she shook her head, trying to clear it. She hated the fuzzy feeling that had landed over her thoughts. Sighing, she heard Lewt's words as he complained about the heat. Today sure seemed a lot hotter than any other day this week and she hated it. She was a hateful individual at this moment in time, but who could blame her? She had just had memories that she worked so hard to bury deep, unearthed in a matter of minutes. It was shocking and she honestly just wanted to curl up with Lewt and forget.

But it wasn't time for that yet. She had yet to spend a night with him. She didn't trust herself in his bed simply because she felt her urges would be too powerful to quell. She didn't want to put him in that position either because she knew that he was trying to be a good, respectful man for her and she appreciated that. Truth be told, she hadn't ever slept with another man. Men had tried, multiple times, but they either ended up shot or wishing they didn't have their manly parts. Rio would always be hard to tame. She was a wild spirit and had a heart that couldn't and wouldn't be broken very easily. It was already broken from what had happened to her family. It was hard to break something that already needed fixing. But Lewt was starting to put the pieces back together and she trusted him. She knew that he'd never do anything that she didn't want to do, but the idea still thrilled her and frightened her. Sighing, she nodded. "It's hotter than I ever remember it bein'. I ain't a fan." She said playfully, trying to distract herself from her thoughts.

It was then that she realized she was looking at Lewt shirtless. Her lips parted slightly as she took in the site of his bare torso, unable to help herself as her hands reached out to touch what she had never seen before on him. Her fingers traveled from his fit abdomen up to his chest, her big blue eyes wider than they had ever been. Well, she was attracted to him. That was plain to see. Finally pulling her hand from him like she had broken so unwritten law, she tried focusing on what he was saying to her. Her name, he was talking about her name. Staring now, she only broke out of her spell when he shoved her, and that caused a smile to appear on her once stunned features. "Watch it, ya rogue. I'm gonna beat ya soon." She announced playfully, a laugh following her statement. They both knew that Lewt could overpower her without a problem, but it was when she caught him unaware that she had the upper hand. She just had to whack him when he least expected it and she could get him down. Trying not to laugh too much at that thought, she closed her eyes as he kissed her forehead, smiling more brightly.

The kiss was tender and sweet and it affected her far more deeply than any other kiss did when it came to him. There was just something about it. Sighing contentedly, she heard him speak up but didn't respond. She was happy just listening to him, happy just knowing that he knew she'd find him a good nickname that meant something to her. She would have to think long and hard about that when she wasn't so intoxicated.

Suddenly though, he was speaking about being a part of his family again. He was ready to settle down, he was nearly twenty six. And again he had left her speechless. In the span of five minutes, not even. He was doing things to her and she honestly didn't know how to feel about it. Staring at him in wonder, she finally found her voice. "I like ya a lot too, Lewt. I'll be yer girl for as long as you'll have me. If ya can handle me." She said easily, adding a bit of a joke to lighten the situation at the end of the statement. Smiling to him now, she couldn't believe that he was thinking about the future with her. It made her feel special, it made her feel like someone could actually love her again after all of these years. It was then that she had said that comment. The one meant to stun him. And stun him she did. As he stared at her blankly with no expression to his features, she squirmed in his gaze. It was meant to shock him but it seemed that it had a greater affect than she had first believed. Watching him now, she was filled with relief as he spoke up, for she had thought she had broken him. He was right of course. They needed to make it special.

As he started to explain things, she raised an eyebrow in surprise, watching him with a smile growing on her features. When he broke out into laughter, her smile only grew and she laughed with him. She knew what he meant and that was all that mattered. "Easy there cowboy. I ain't needin' to hear the details of how ya plan on gettin' to me. I'll like a surprise." She teased him openly, knowing that their relationship could handle the jokes. It was something that she found she loved about him. He was so easy to talk to, but even easier to joke with. It was pleasant and she found she wanted to be with him more and more. She had never wanted to be around a man more than she did with Lewt. It was different, very different, but welcomed all of the same. It was then that he said that they could go swimming though, and she melted instantly. "Oh thank gosh. I'm roastin'." She said with a laugh, listening as he said they could take his horse. She nodded in agreement. "He ain't used to me bein' drunk. I fell offa him more times than I can count on the way here. I think it tired 'im out." She said playfully and followed after Lewt to the corral.

She stood by as he got his horse ready, looking down at the dirt at their feet as she told her story and he commented. "It ain't a big deal. Happened in the past, so I reckon I shouldn't be bothered by it." There was her habit. She had this feeling, this belief that she always had to be strong. He would be able to see that she had never let herself grieve. She was under the impression that it would be entirely too weak of her to hurt so she didn't allow herself to do it. Holding her breath for a moment, she let it out and looked up as he finished tacking of Lancaster. As he said he knew how it hurt, she just shook her head. "It doesn't hurt that bad...just a lil bit." There was her stubbornness again. It was obvious that she was horrible when it came to these types of situations. Sighing softly, she was aware of him suddenly telling his story and her heart hurt for him. He had had it so much worse than she did and she truly felt for him. "I'm so sorry Lewt. I wish...I wish there was somethin' that I could do for ya. Ya don't deserve that baby.." She finished honestly, watching him carefully for any signs of emotion.

He seemed steadfast in his stoicism though and she wasn't given any indication that he was as upset as she was. Sighing, she looked absolutely defeated standing there in front of him. This was as spiritless as he would ever see her. She looked broken, as if she had finally given up her fight. When he asked about her mother, she shook her head. "There weren't 'sposed to be any survivors. She ain't livin' now. I hope she ain't livin' now." It would be better for her if they put her out of her misery. Rio knew that much. And it was right then, with that admittance that Rio finally lost her strength. She slid down the wall of the barn, curling her knees to her chest, finally crying the sobs that never came when she was ten years old. She missed her father, she mourned her mother. She was tired of being so strong when all she wanted to do was curl up and just let it all go. And she could right now. Lewt wouldn't judge her and none of the other men could see her. Holding her head in her hands, she cried brokenly, losing her composure. "I wish Weldon Campbell never came into that damn saloon. I wish I hadn't drunk like a fool." They were real wishes, but they also covered what she truly wished. She wished her parents were dead, she wished she had properly grieved their deaths because maybe then she wouldn't be how she was now.

[Lewt McConnell]

He felt a surge of anger as he thought about what had happened to both of them. They had both been the victims of hate. He looked away. As much as he preferred not to talk about it (even with his siblings), it was always on his mind. Despite his reckless ways he had a heart. Even if it had been warped and unused, he still had it. His father had become a drunk after their mother’s death. Even though he had fallen apart; Lewton knew he didn’t deserve to die as brutally as he had. The Kiowa’s had murdered him. They avenged their many deaths with the slaughter of his father. They had stole all of their youths. It had seemed their innocence had diminished after those long days at the Kiowa tribe. Lewt had been too young to protect his younger siblings. He was too young. However, they had escaped. The past was well behind them.

He reflected on what she had spoken about the weather and looked around the empty barn. The horses were out and about the field. Taking whatever coverage they had. He nodded, exhaling a breath. Wiping away the already forming perspiration about his brow. Hell, he needed water to quench his desire for coolness. It seemed at this rate it was the only option available. The sun beamed relentlessly. The earth seemed to be breaking underneath them from dehydration. His light blue eyes swarmed back to Rio. Smiling softly as he enjoyed her presence. “Well ya get used to it now, baby. It’s the goddamned desert.” He teased, arching his brows mischievously.

His eyes dropped to her softly muscled figure. He couldn’t help but to look at her in such a way. Hell, she was beautiful. Her physique, was nicely chiseled. The sculpture of her sun kissed face glowed with splendor. He couldn’t resist but to desire her in such a way. It was the devil on his shoulder whispering to him. Pleading him to seduce her. He knew better. He knew that if he truly wanted this girl he could wait. Wait till it was more special. Lewt’s eyes scoped her body, smirking. “I’ll tell ya ever’ fine detail, freckles.” He laughed heartily. He couldn’t help himself. “I bet it did, girl. Poor thin’ needs a break from time to time.” He teased.

He looked back at her with his brows lifted. He knew that wasn’t true. He could see by the deep sadness in her eyes that it had affected her more than she made it seem. He shook his head. “Freckles, you and me both know that’s not the truth. Ya can tell me.” She didn’t need to play tough with him anymore. He knew that she was a strong willed woman. However, he knew that this had done it’s damage. As he looked back at her he listened to her collectively speak. “It’s the way of life. I reckon them injuns have hate for us white folks. They took it out on innocent people.” He patted Lancaster’s neck after he completely adjusted the girth and turned back to Rio.

He took a step towards her as he could see the sorrow wash over her expression. She looked devastated. So much so he was not sure how to react. “I’m sorry, Rio. I’m real sorry. An’ I know it’s not fair. It ain’t fair one bit, but ya gotta keep on bein’ strong. Ya know? Ya gotta keep on movin’ on. The good lor’ takin’ care of her an’ yer pa.” He watched her break. Watched her curl into her knees. He listened to her weep. The sound of the muffled, battered cry made his heart sink. He slowly walked over to her. “It’s all righ’, cry. It’s good for ya. Yer all mixed up, freckles. Ya ain’t used to it, an’ don’t let it control ya.”

[Rio Daniels]

Her heart went out for Lewt. He didn't deserve the torment that the Kiowa's put him through. Her family had been at the mercy of the Apache's and it hadn't turned out very well for them either. But the story that Lewt told her hit her far more deeply than her own. His sister...his sister was used as a wife to one of the Indians. It had to be hard for Lewt to know that was the fate that his sister fell into. Furrowing her brow as she thought about his story, she wondered how he had the strength to go on. He wondered how he was able to deal with the suffering, the grief. It wasn't fair. This world wasn't fair and she wished that there was something that she could do to take his hurt away. It would distract her from her own heart break.

Trying to keep her composure, trying to make herself seem stronger than she really was, she forced a smile on her face as he teased her. "So this is a desert? And here I thought I was at the beach!" She joked with him, trying to sound sincere. He did make her happy. He always made her feel better even when she wasn't aware that she needed a pick me up. He was always there to offer her a smile, to hold her, to do something that made her feel wanted and important. The biggest thing of all, when she was gone, he always made her feel as if she was missed during her absence. Sighing softly as she stood in front of him, she didn't know how she could possibly thank this man for everything that he had done for her so far.

It was then that she felt his eyes on her and she nearly squirmed from how embarrassed she was. The truth was, Rio was in good shape. She did everything for herself, so she had some muscle to her athletic form. She had to keep herself healthy or she'd never be able to survive on her own. But it was this man looking her over that nearly did her in and she hesitated in her confidence. Feeling her cheeks heat up under his scrutiny, her face only flamed brighter when he said he'd tell her everything. "Well where's the fun in that if I'd rather you do the things to me?" She tempted him, knowing that she was taunting him. But if anything he would see that she was ready. This wasn't the alcohol talking. Sure, it gave her a bit of extra courage, but she did want to be with him like that. She wanted to share his bed with him. She wanted to be intimate with him.

Sighing softly, she was suddenly aware of him laughing at her, and she pushed his shoulder firmly. However, because she was intoxicated, it made her lose her balance, and she clung to his bare upper arm for support. "Hush you." She demanded of him, smiling slightly up at him. She loved how playful their relationship was. The men even thought it was quite amusing to see their boss get bested by a girl sometimes. It was even funnier when Lewt bested Rio because she would get so flustered and then she'd proceed to do whatever she could in order to get Lewt to lose. It was definitely worth the entertainment, Rio regarded him now, wishing that they could go back to one of their fun wrestling matches.

What they were talking about wasn't fun, and she didn't like it. She didn't want to look this weak in front of him even though she knew in her heart that he wouldn't judge her. He would probably want her to let it out. As he saw right through her lies, Rio could barely respond to him without tearing up even more. "I-It is the truth Lewt." But she couldn't swear on it. No matter how hard she tried to look tough in this moment, it was obvious that the run in with Weldon Campbell had left her in a horrible state. She was shell shocked to put it simply. She didn't know which way was up or which way was down and this alcohol certainly wasn't her situation. Letting out a shaky sigh as he spoke about the Indians, she could only nod in agreement. She could only nod because moments later she was going through her horrible, embarrassing break down.

The sobs shook her slim shoulders as she curled up, moving her hands from her head to wrap them around her knees. She didn't bring her eyes up to look at the men who she was falling hard for because he didn't want to see her in this state. He shouldn't see her weak. "Lewt, ya should just git." She said brokenly, but anyone who knew her could tell she didn't mean that. She wanted Lewt to wrap his arms around her, she wanted him to hold her and tell her that everything was going to be okay because she had him and he had her and that was all that they needed. They could go through their pain together. They could experience sadness, and joy, and everything between because they were together and it was alright. Shaking now because of the pitiful cries that wracked her body, she heaved in a breath to try to steady herself and spoke again. "I ain't ever drinkin' again Lewt...I n-need ya." She finally admitted, making only a little sense. She wanted him, she needed him. "Don't go.."

[Lewt McConnell]

So it had been they were more alike than they had known. She had experienced the loss of both of her parents at the hands of the Natives. As he experienced the death of his father under the hands of the Kiowa. Fortunately, his mother had died prior from illness after the birth of Asa. She had not been able to be taken captives by the Natives. Lewton McConnell would consider himself luckier than most. The Indians could have easily slaughtered his entire family. They could have done horrible things to his sisters. They were fortunate. The Koiwa’s took them. They sent Asa to live under the care of a adoptive family, his sister married, Laurabelle adopted, and his older brother and him to work. As much as they were miserable, they learned much from these natives. The distinct way they have thrived amongst the land had made a huge impact on all of them. In some ways he was enraged by it all. In others, he respected them for what he had learned.

He knew it hurt her. The pain of knowing her parents had died brutally was more painful than most. There was aspects to her story that he understood. He tilted his head slightly, smiling warmly to her comment. Rio could have a sense of humor when she wanted to. It took him awhile to discover but it was there. “Well, don’t I wish.” He chuckled. He crouched low enough to see her flushed face. He could not of known how mixed up she was in those moments. Alcohol always tended to have a way of mixing feelings up.

“Your so lovely, my darlin’.” He laughed. His index finger lightly tracing her high cheekbones. How seductive she looked in those moments. “You will see, freckles. I’ll make it mighty special for ya.” He pursed his lips and continued to caress his rough fingertip against her smooth skin. “So much so, ya ain’t ever goin’ t’ leave me.” He teased, watching her cheeks burn brightly. He continued to smirk, enjoying her flustered expression. “An’ boy, do I have surprises for ya.” He continued to laugh heartily.

He enjoyed it when she challenged him. There was something more adorable in it all when she pushed him around. When she showed him up. Sometimes she could and other times she couldn’t. She was a tough woman. She could do much more than any proper woman. Hell, she was damn good with the gun. This was all so impressive and awe-striking to him. The very sense that she could challenge him was seductive. “Ya don’ tell me to hush, I ain’t done talkin’!” He grabbed ahold of her instinctively as her small frame dropped almost instantly. “Careful there, freckles. Don’ want ya to be knockin’ yer head all up, now.”

After those long moments had passed, and she had propped herself up against the barn wall, he watched her intently. Watching tears stream down her high cheeks. He wrapped his arms around her for comfort. “I ain’t gone go. Ya stop that ridiculous nonsense.” His hand moved against her back. “Ya jus’ sad, girl. It’s human of ya. If ya didn’t have no emotions at all I’d sure be worried ‘bout ya. Ya woul’ be real otherwise. C’mon let’s go do somethin’ nice. Let’s go cool down.”

[Rio Daniels]

Rio didn't know how to describe what she was feeling inside. She knew that the alcohol was intensifying her emotions, but there wasn't really anything that she could do about it now. What was done was done, and she was stuck the way that she was until it left her system. She just wished that she hadn't broken down in front of Lewt like this. She was supposed to be a tough girl. She was supposed to be a young woman that could take care of herself. The truth was, Rio was broken, shattered inside. She missed her father, she missed her mother. She missed the ranch and the horses and the business. She just missed her old life. She knew that she appreciated her life now. It was a gift to her, for if it wasn't for her father, she would be dead along with them. He had sacrificed himself for her and she could never take her life for granted. But by being an outlaw, wasn't she doing just that? The only problem was, she didn't know how to be any other way.

She had to fend for herself as soon as she took off on West that day. She fought for survival, she made it through because of her will power and her defiance. She didn't want to die because it would be an insult to her father. She had fended for herself, she had survived off of the land. It was difficult and that was when she started stealing from the towns that she passed through. Even at that age she dressed herself as a young man. Things were just easier for men in this world. She wasn't a fool. But right now, she didn't want to think about the past. She didn't want to reminisce on memories that only brought her pain. She wanted to think of the future, her future, with Lewt. She didn't want to be with anyone else. He made her feel wanted, he made her feel like she meant something. That was all she ever wanted in her life and she had found it here. As he caught her on the way down, Rio all but collapsed in his arms.

Despite the heat, she slipped forward and was nearly in his lap. Leaning her face on his chest, she wrapped her arms around his middle, closing her eyes and breathing in his scent. He smelled of leather and the outdoors, something that she loved. Those smells had always been a comfort to her and she appreciated them more than ever now. Keeping her arms wrapped around him, she moved in his arms, trying to get more comfortable. Once that was achieved she sighed softly, relaxing just because she was in his presence. The alcohol was making her feel sleepy, as was the heat. She just wanted to curl up with him forever, but she knew that it could be later. "Lewt, I don't wanna sleep alone tonight." It didn't mean that they had to do anything intimate. It just meant that she wanted to be in his arms. He would chase away her nightmares and she needed that more than anything.

She was being weak. She knew that and it disgusted her. She wanted to stop crying, she wanted to stop sniveling at his feet. It wasn't decent of her, to do this to him. This stupid alcohol had her all sorts of confused. While the buzz was wearing off, she still had the odd sensation of spinning. It was awful. As Lewt's voice filled her ears once more, she pulled back from him, knowing that he was probably getting more and more hot with her this close to him. She didn't care, even though he was shirtless. She cared too much about him to be offended by his lack of clothes. Sighing, she nodded.

"Yer right. Let's go." She said quietly, looking rather subdued. Subdued was not something that Rio did. Not ever. It was obvious that she was still affected by the things she was thinking about, but she was done crying. Crying never helped anything, and she looked at Lewt as she managed to push herself to his feet, with his help. "I ain't supposed to cry. I won't do it no more." It was such a silly thing to say, but Rio needed to hear herself say it. She needed to say it in order to feel her strength returning. Looking up at him now, her blue eyes seemed even more blue because of the crying she had just done. Wiping her tears away, she offered him a watery smile and then looked to his horse who was standing quietly now. She patted the bay's neck, giving him a scratch before looking to her man. "Different from when we took West, huh?" She asked him softly, smiling a bit.

Once he had climbed onto his horse, she followed suit, waiting for him to take his foot out of the stirrup so she could use it. She got on rather easily. Being on a horse was natural to her. She had been riding since she was old enough to sit up by herself, and before that, her papa had her riding in front of him, securely. This was what she was made to do. She settled into his saddle behind his saddle, her slim form pressed against his as she got more comfortable. Wrapping her arms around his waist, she held on tightly, her long legs keeping her secure on his horse's back. Closing her eyes now, she just breathed in Lewt, letting herself sober up on their trip to wherever the swimming hole was.

[Lewt McConnell]

From time to time he knew of the impact of loosing his parents in his youth. There was a unforgettable feeling that wallowed deep within him. Perhaps, it was them. Sometimes he could not be too sure of what he felt. Often times he soaked his bones with whiskey when he felt even the most subtle surge of sadness. The Kiowa, despite the slaughter of their father, had been kind to them. The had taught them skills that most of the McConnell family still used today. They had brought them into the tribe as their own. Something that many of the Apache tribes would have never done. No, the Apache’s were Natives of warfare. For years they had used the desert as a battleground. They were much crueler than any tribe. Rio was fortunate that she had lived. As painstaking as going on without her family, she was very fortunate to be with him now.

In those sad moments, Lewton wished that he could undo the past for Rio. That just somehow he could had helped. Her inner strength was apparent now. Since her youth she had been alone. Rio had been a vagabond outlaw for so long she wasn’t used to the care of another. He brushed her hair from her soaked cheeks. Lewton allowed her to bury within his chest as he comforted her. She felt comforting against his body. Her slender frame fit as if a puzzle piece against him. He admired her features as she hugged against him. Running his rough fingers through her rich brown hair. He could feel her pain delve into him.

He was surprised to hear what she had to say next. His eyebrows arched, curious. He pursed his lips as he debated if it was the right choice. He knew that his longing for Rio was almost overpowering. Even being in the same bed as her would be the most tempting situation he could run into. He knew he wanted to wait. Lewt wanted to wait for Rio until it was right. He had wanted to see if she was the most suitable girl for his future. As time passed, he was quickly seeing that she was. He exhaled a deep sigh as he looked up. His cornflower blue eyes observed the grain of the wooden stall across from him. Lewton could do it. He would just cut down on the alcohol for the night. As profound as it seemed to him, he would cut down.

“Alrigh’, of course. My bed is more comf’rtable anyhow.” He teased, looking back down at the slender woman coiled against him. “I reckon if it helps, your more than welcome.” As the minutes passed he waited as he soothed Rio. As she agreed, he stood. He was quick to mount the bay horse, as was Rio. “Don’ ya worry ‘bout cryin’, sweet darlin’. Folks need t’ do it every once in awhile. As for myself, I don’ cry.” He turned his head as he spoke and laughed. “Ya know I can be such a fool.” He snapped the reins as they ventured off under the beaming sun. “That horse is damn wil’. Ain’t ever gone to ride ‘em again.” He joked. “This youn’ fella here is what ya called a well trained buck.” He exclaimed as he patted Lancaster’s nape.

Time passed until they climbed the steep slope of boulders and stones. Venturing through crevices of rock until they came to a familiar spot. Between walls of rock there was a clearing of water. The murky water shimmered as rays of light hit it’s rippled surface. He mounted Lancaster and eagerly helped Rio. Grabbing her slender hips he pulled her down along side of him. “I know ya can do it yerself, I just wanted a excuse to do it.” He winked and led Rio to the water. Lancaster followed close behind. Lewt begun to take of his boots as well as his other clothes. “Hope ya ain’t shy.”

[Rio Daniels]

It was strange that she could find comfort in this man, in another human being. Rio had distanced herself from everyone for so long, not because she had to, but because she had no choice. No one would accept a young girl of ten years old into their homes. They didn't have the income to provide for the members of their family, let alone another mouth to feed. She never blamed anyone for her troubles except for the Native Americans. They had robbed her of her happiness, they had robbed her of her family. She knew that there was nothing that she could do. She was trapped in a life without her mother and without her father. While she had never been as close to her mother as she was to her father, that didn't mean that it made her death any harder to deal with. The worst part of it was that she didn't even know what her mother's fate was. But she wasn't going to think about it now. Just because Weldon Campbell brought up memories of her past didn't mean that she had to let it ruin her present, her future. No. Her future included Lewt, if he was as serious as he sounded. He had said that he wanted her to be a part of his family eventually and a part of her wanted nothing more than that. She would be a part of a real family again.

Her hand found his almost instantly as she stayed with him, but they didn't remain like that for long. Once he announced that they should go cool off, she had agreed almost instantly. She knew she would feel better if she could just bring her temperature down. Sighing softly, the young woman pushed herself up from where she was resting in his lap, letting him stand as well. Hearing his words about his room and his bed, a smile finally appeared on her face. She pushed his shoulder playfully, the grin widening as she saw that he was teasing her. "Ya ain't never been in my bed to make that call McConnell." She announced pleasantly, glad and thankful that this man could make her smile even though her heart hurt more than it ever had before. Looking up at him for a moment, she just shook her head and climbed up on after him, her arms going naturally to hold around his waist.

His waist was slim, his stomach was flat and muscled. She couldn't help but admire him as he sat before her shirtless. His back was cut and formed and she was silently thankful that she could rest against him. Smiling to herself, glad that he couldn't see, she closed her eyes for a moment and imagined snuggling up to him tonight in his bed. She didn't want to sleep with him, not in that intimate way. She simply just wanted him to hold her. She knew that it was asking him a lot and she had seen the pensive look on his face. And yet, despite his reservations, he had agreed. She didn't understand but she wouldn't press. Of course she didn't want him to feel obligated to have her in his bed tonight. She wondered if she should make that clear to him and the more she thought about it, the more she wanted to. "Hey Lewt...ya don't have to stay with me tonight. I'm sure I can handle it." She told him, giving him an escape route. She didn't want him to feel trapped with her, not ever. It wasn't something that she wanted to do to him. He had given her so much already that it felt wrong to expect this of him.

It was then that he was telling her that she didn't need to worry about crying. Sighing softly, she didn't think that he'd understand. She didn't cry. Rio hadn't even cried when she saw her father cut down in front of her. She never cried. She was stronger than that and the embarrassment she felt in doing such an action overwhelmed and overpowered the liquored buzz she was experiencing now. But she knew she could tell him anything, she could ask him anything. Rio hoped that he felt the same with her. "Ya don't think I'm weak or somethin' cause of it?" She asked him timidly, showing her softer side once more. Rio needed his approval, she needed his comfort and his reassurance. It was strange. She had never needed that from anyone before. She had always been by herself without anyone to guide her. She was so used to being alone that this new constant company was something that threw her. She didn't want to push ihm away but she was terrified that she would without meaning to. Sucking in a breath now, she suddenly smiled as he called her stallion wild. Nudging him once more from behind, she flicked the brim of his hat, knowing it would send it shifting forward on his head.

"Don't be makin' fun of my horse, sir. He ain't wild. He's just misunderstood." She announced calmly, factually. Rio had in fact just done a good job in explaining herself. However, she wasn't tame. She wasn't someone that could be easily tamed, or handled. When someone tried to force her into compliance, it never went well. Lewt had first hand experience with that when they had first met in the middle of town. Resisting the urge to smile at that memory, she remained silent for a moment, and then found herself offended all over again. Straightening as she sat on his horse behind him, she pushed his back. "Are ya tryin' to say I can't train a horse, cowboy? West is trained enough!" She said, trying her best to hide her play from her voice. She wanted him to think that she was seriously offended by his comments, especially because he couldn't see her face. He couldn't see her smile, or her brighter eyes. Doing her best to remain patient on the trip to the swimming hole, she sighed softly and just wrapped her arms around his waist again, settling down once she was finished acting as if he had just insulted her. Grumbling to herself because of the situation, she stared out at the landscape, which was probably something to look at in the cooler months. Right now she was tired of the desert terrain. It made everything insufferable.

Ignoring those thoughts, she sat up as Lewt pulled his reliable steed to a halt. As Lancaster stood still, Rio moved herself in order to dismount. Lewt was too fast for her though. As he jumped off, she made a move, but his strong hands were around her slim waist faster than she could blink. Her eyes widened for a moment and as he pulled her off, she wrapped her arms around his neck for a bit of extra balance. Hearing his explanation and seeing his wink, she thought for a moment and grabbed his hat from his head, placing it on her own. It was much too big for her, but it gave her the look she was going for. Besides, everyone knew what it meant when a girl took a cowboy's hat. Smiling devilishly at him, she stepped backwards, watching him with her bright blue eyes. She was thankful for this distraction. "Ya just can't keep yer hands off me, can ya?" She asked him teasingly, watching as he suddenly approached the water and started stripping. Hearing his question, she stood stock still, her jaw parting slightly in shock. "Shy? Me? Uh....no. O' course not. But...Lewt...ya ain't...well ya ain't gonna take all of yer clothes off are ya? I mean, not that I'm shy or anythin'....but what about...uh..what about sun burn! I bet that would be mighty painful!"

She announced suddenly, watching him with bright red cheeks and an astonished expression on her face. She didn't know why she was suddenly so bashful in front of him but she certainly didn't want this man seeing her without her clothes on. The only way Lewt was going to get her into that water now was if he threw her in himself.