Loyalty Divided

Chapter Thirty Three

By the time May rolled around, the gang had settled into a precarious routine. The early spring months had been relatively quiet, with no major heists or noteworthy scores. The Callander boys, Mac and Davey, had kept a low profile since their initial stunt, and tensions within the group had eased somewhat.

Arthur had kept a watchful eye on them, ready to step in if they caused any more trouble, but so far, they had confined themselves to petty thievery. They proved to be useful enough in their own way, lifting wallets and watches without attracting too much attention. Still, Arthur couldn't shake his mistrust of them, especially when they whispered and chuckled among themselves.

Tilly and Mary-Beth had come into their own during this period, surprising everyone with their knack for pickpocketing. They moved through towns with practiced ease and slipped away with purses and valuables before anyone knew what had happened. Their contributions had been a small but steady source of income, and Dutch had praised them for their skill.

Dutch himself had taken on a new lover, Molly O'Shea, who had joined the gang shortly after the events of March. Molly had quickly ingratiated herself, her sharp wit and fiery spirit endearing her to Dutch. She was a capable woman, holding her own among the rough company, and Dutch's infatuation with her was obvious to anyone who cared to look.

The gang's days were spent in a mix of idle time and minor exploits. They'd move from town to town, scoping out opportunities and laying low when necessary. Though the larger scores had eluded them, the gang managed to stay afloat, their small-time operations keeping them fed and supplied.

Arthur found some solace in the quiet moments, using the time to spend it with Evangeline. The tension from the night of the robbery had slowly dissipated, replaced by a cautious but growing bond. Evangeline had proven resilient, her spirit unbroken despite the ordeal, and her presence was a constant reminder to Arthur of what they were fighting for.

Arthur was getting his things together, saddling his horse and checking his supplies. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a soft glow over the camp. He worked with practiced efficiency, ensuring every strap was secure and every item in place. His thoughts, however, were far from the routine task at hand. They were with Eliza and the baby she was soon to bring into the world.

Evangeline approached him, her footsteps light on the dewy grass. Her expression was a mix of curiosity and concern, her eyes reflecting the soft morning light. She leaned against a nearby post, watching him for a moment before speaking.

"Heading out early?" she asked, her voice gentle but tinged with worry.

Arthur glanced up, offering a small nod. "Yeah, I gotta go see Eliza. She's close to havin' the baby, and I wanna be there for her." His voice held a note of urgency, a determination that underscored his words.

Evangeline smiled softly, a touch of warmth in her eyes. "That's good, Arthur. She needs you. How's she holding up?"

Arthur paused, his hands momentarily still as he considered her question. "She's tough," he replied, his tone filled with admiration and a hint of pride. "But it's gettin' harder for her. She's been managing on her own for a while now, and I just wanna make sure she's alright. Be there for the birth, make things easier on her."

He resumed his task, tightening the straps with a focused intensity. Evangeline watched him, noting the lines of worry etched on his face. She stepped closer, her presence a quiet support.

"She's lucky to have you, Arthur," she said softly. "You're doing the right thing by being there for her."

Arthur looked at Evangeline, the hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Thanks, Evangeline. I just wish I could do more. Sometimes I feel like no matter what I do, it ain't enough."