Loyalty Divided

Chapter Thirty Eight

Evangeline stirred as the first light of dawn filtered through the tent, casting a soft glow over the canvas. Arthur's arms were wrapped around her, his steady breathing a comforting rhythm. She smiled, turning to face him, and planted a gentle kiss on his lips. Arthur responded, deepening the kiss with a passion that made her heart race.

"Good morning, beautiful," he murmured against her lips, his voice husky with sleep.

"Morning," she replied, tracing her fingers along his jawline. The rough stubble beneath her fingertips was a familiar comfort. "What's the plan for today?"

Arthur sighed, his hand brushing through her hair, the strands slipping through his fingers like silk. "Dutch wants me to stick around and go over some plans for the bank job. You?"

Evangeline sighed, resting her head on his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. "Guess I'll find something to keep myself busy."

Arthur chuckled, the sound rumbling through his chest. He gave her a playful squeeze. "Maybe you and John can go into town, grab some supplies. You two could use some bonding time."

Evangeline smiled, nodding. "That sounds good. Besides, it's always entertaining watching John try to haggle."

Arthur's fingers gently traced patterns on her back. "You know he's terrible at it, right?"

Evangeline laughed softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "That's what makes it so much fun to watch."

Arthur kissed her again, deeper this time, his hand cupping her face. Evangeline responded eagerly, her fingers tangling in his hair. They stayed like that for a moment, lost in each other, the rest of the world fading away. The intimacy of their connection filled the tent, creating a cocoon of warmth and love.

Finally, Arthur pulled back, his forehead resting against hers. "Alright, we better get moving before Dutch comes looking for us."

Evangeline sighed, a smile tugging at her lips. "Yeah, I suppose we should."

They reluctantly disentangled themselves and got dressed, sharing a few more kisses and tender touches as they prepared for the day. Stepping out of the tent, the camp was coming to life. The smell of coffee and frying bacon filled the air, mixing with the scent of the forest and the distant murmur of the river.

John was already preparing his horse when they approached. He looked up, adjusting his hat against the brightening sky. "Morning, folks," he greeted with a nod, a slight grin tugging at his lips.

"Morning, John. Ready for a little adventure?" Evangeline asked, grabbing a piece of bacon from a pan, savoring the salty, crispy treat.

John grinned, adjusting his saddle straps with practiced ease. "Always. What's on the agenda?"

"Supplies," Evangeline said, her voice light. "And maybe a little trouble, if we're lucky," she added, giving him a playful shove.

John laughed, his eyes twinkling. "Let's get to it then. We'll be back before you know it."

Evangeline mounted her horse, patting its neck affectionately. She glanced back at Arthur, who stood watching her with a warm, protective gaze. "Stay out of trouble," she called, her tone teasing.

Arthur shook his head, a smile playing on his lips. "I should be saying that to you."

With a final wave, Evangeline and John set off, the camp gradually fading behind them as they rode toward town. The morning air was crisp and refreshing, filled with the sounds of birdsong and the rustle of leaves. They rode in comfortable silence for a while, the rhythmic clopping of their horses' hooves creating a soothing backdrop.