Hidden Destinys || RDR2 - Arthur Morgan x OC ||

7. Traveling

Emma had proven herself during the train heist, earning a measure of respect from the gang members. It had been a few days since the successful robbery, and the gang was making plans for their next move. In the meantime, Dutch suggested that Emma and Arthur take a trip to Valentine to gather supplies and allow Emma to purchase a horse of her own.

The morning sun was just beginning to rise as Emma and Arthur saddled their horses. Arthur's sturdy bay mare stood calmly as he secured his gear, while Emma borrowed one of the gang's spare horses, a feisty chestnut gelding that was proving difficult to control.

Arthur glanced over at Emma, who was struggling to mount the restless horse. "You ready for this, Emma?"

Emma nodded, determination in her eyes. "I am. It's about time I got my own horse."

Arthur smiled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Alright then, let's head out."

They rode out of the camp, the crisp morning air invigorating and filled with the promise of a new day. The path to Valentine was picturesque, winding through forests and open plains. Birds chirped in the trees, and the occasional deer darted across their path. Emma took in the scenery, marveling at the beauty of the wild west.

As they rode, Arthur broke the comfortable silence. "So, Emma, where'd you learn to shoot like that?"

Emma glanced at him, racking her brain for any believable lie. Truth was, she didn't know how she could shoot that well... she just could. "My dad taught me. We used to go hunting together when I was younger. He always said it was important to know how to defend yourself."

Arthur nodded appreciatively. "Smart man. It's a good skill to have out here. You did real good during the heist."

"Thanks," Emma said, feeling a warm sense of pride. 

"Emma. Not everyone can say they helped pull off a train heist their first week."

Emma laughed softly. "Guess I'm a fast learner. But honestly, having you and the gang backing me up made all the difference."

She knew it wasn't normal to be able to shoot that well...especially since she'd never used a gun even once in her life back in the real world. Was it the figure? Luck? It didn't make sense, but then again...nothing here made sense.

Arthur nodded, his expression thoughtful. "It's all about trust and knowing someone's got your back. Out here, it's the only way to survive."

Emma looked at Arthur, her curiosity piqued. "Arthur, do you ever think about what life would be like if you weren't... well, living this way? With the gang, I mean."

Arthur's face grew more serious as he considered her question. "I do, sometimes. But this life... it's all I know. Dutch took me in when I was just a kid. I owe him everything. But sure, I've thought about what it would be like to have a normal life. Maybe settle down somewhere, have a family."

Emma could sense a wistfulness in his voice. "It sounds nice. Peaceful, even. Do you think it's ever possible for someone like us?"

Arthur shrugged, his gaze fixed on the horizon. "Maybe. But it's hard to escape this life once you're in it. The past has a way of catching up with you. But who knows? Anything's possible, I guess."

Emma smiled softly. "Well, if anyone can make it happen, I think it's you, Arthur. You have a good heart, despite everything."

Arthur glanced at her, uncertainty written in his features. He scoffed as he spoke. "You think so?"

"I do," Emma replied sincerely. "You've helped me more than you know. And I see how you are with the rest of the gang. You care about them. That means something."