The Last Love Of Arthur Morgan

A New Beginning

May 2, 1907

After some grueling months travelling from place to place, never really staying for longer than a minute, the four finally decided to settle near a town. John suggested Strawberry, since it was relatively lowkey and up in the mountains. No one had any objections, least of all, Arthur. 

He survived the Tuberculosis, though it still remained within his body. The miracle came in the form of a man doctoring out of his house near the Mexican border. He did a rather new treatment, which made Arthur incapacitated for a few months up to a year.

The Doctor called the treatment collapse therapy. It hadn't been used a lot, but those that did get the treatment, recovered and went on to live happy lives. 

It took about eight months for his treatments to rid him of the consumption and then he was released, however, he had to go back every three weeks for a checkup and more treatment if needed.

For as sick as Arthur was, he did surprisingly well. He stayed in remission for about a year after that.

They all stayed in Arizona for a while after, due to Abigail's pregnancy and Arthur's health. But once she gave birth to a little girl named Suzie and Arthur was given a clean bill of health, they didn't waste any time leaving the hot, dusty state.

About two months into their journey back to civilization, Lorna learned that she was pregnant. They stayed in Utah the entire duration of her pregnancy and after she gave birth to a boy they named William, they left for Strawberry.

Jack, aged thirteen, acted more like an adult than John or Arthur ever did. He was smart as a whip, but was extremely shy and usually kept to himself. Suzie however, was very much like John, which scared everyone.

Lily was all of eight now and could command an Army if she wanted to, but she had a shy streak about her as well. She was very protective of William, always making sure he was okay and didn't need anything. 

Arthur couldn't believe how well his life had turned out. Seven years ago, he was knocking on deaths door, now he was a father of two wonderful children, with a beautiful wife on his arm, a few good friends and good health. Life couldn't get any better than this.

"Town hasn't changed much." John announced, stretching his legs.

"No it hasn't." Arthur agreed.

Strawberry looked the same as when they left it all those years ago and it brought back so many memories; memories he hadn't intended on remembering at this point in his life. 

"Momma." Lily whined."I have to potty."

"Okay baby, we're here now."

"Uh, there's a water closet in the Hotel." Arthur pointed over her shoulder.

"Alright. Can you watch William?" 

"Well he is my son, I think I can." 

She rolled her eyes."Don't get smart, I know all your secrets."

He heaved a sigh."Women."

"I heard that." Lorna called from the back of the wagon.

"Love you."

"Mhm."

He winked then turned to John and Abigail's wagon."Jim go inside yet?"

Abbey turned around."Yeah, says he's gettin' directions to the nearest ranch."

Arthur nodded and brought his thumb up to his mouth, gnawing on a piece of dry skin. It became a habit once he was forced to quit smoking, he also gained back all the weight he dropped when he was sick.