Archive of Our Own ^beta

Stepping around your little cabin , your boots hitting the old dusty wood planks, you were in a daze. Tying twine around the herbs you'd collected, your door cracked open, only a little. The smell of sweet summer grass, and blistering Western heat rolling through. The sounds of wind blazing through the grass, and the whinny of your mare.

"I hear you..." You reassured your horse, Milly with a smile. Fixated on what you were doing. That was until you saw him . Brow furrowed, as you catch sight of a young-ish stranger. Running , clothes dusted with burnt crimson sand. Particularly the jeans, scuffed and worn heavily . Frayed along the stitching. The shirt made your eyebrow raise , it was a pink tone, adorned with tassels on the chest. His legs failed him as he tumbled. Tripping over his own damn feet. Looking like a crazed fool, you leaned across your sink. Intrigued at the comical scene outside, though slightly annoyed at the sudden disturbance.

"What in the...?" You'd seen enough.

Stepping to your door, you catch him making a move for your small stable.

"Hey Jackass, just what in the hell do you think you're doing?" He hopped out of his skin. Near startled to death, as he turned to you . Defeat in his eyes. The stranger's skin was tanned, perhaps even burnt from the frazzling sun. Freckles spattered over the bridge of his nose. Catching how the sweat dripped from his curls, running down his forehead.

" Please , please don't try to kill me. I'll be good, I'll be a good boy I swear." He said with such upset, that it made you scoff a little covering your mouth with your hand. Trying to hide it, perhaps a pang of guilt as he dropped to his knees. You were fixated on the pathetic man, his curls wild, his pleading could have almost been charming if he wasn't on the verge of tears. You caught yourself staring. The sun caught in his hazel eyes, and the warmth of gold tones sparkled through with flecks of green.

As you looked closer you noticed the restraints tangled on his wrists, the rope eating at the skin, leaving him with deep red wounds. They were painfully raw, so much so the skin was weeping. Whoever he pissed off, clearly was not fucking around. Seeing the bruises and cuts across his skin made you cringe, redirecting your eyes to his. He clenched his hands together, in a prayer. About to speak, until you heard the pattering in the distance. The familiar sound, like the beat of a drum. Peeking over your shoulder, you watched them. A group riding on horseback, a gang likely. Storming towards your location. Your eyes darted back to him.

"Who are they?" The tone you used was firm. He fumbled at first, stammering with a sense of unease in his voice. Then you crouched in place, snatching his chin into your hand. The tips of your fingers curled against his jaw. Nails pecking at his skin.

"Do not test me. Who are they , and better yet, who are you ?" It came out like a hiss.

Finally finding words. The creases of his eyes clenched as you nipped at his skin. "Please... Please help me." He begged grappling at your shin, his sweaty face planted into your thigh.

The more he spoke the more perplexed you became. However, you were too focused on this odd twang he had in his voice to even comprehend what he was saying. His accent was unplaceable, his voice strained and gravelly . Like that of a wounded animal. You felt an odd discomfort at what he was doing , a soft pink powdered the apples of your cheeks.

The ringing in your ears loudened, as you heard the march of the horses draw closer. Then you shook him off of you like a dog. Gripping the frayed rope of his makeshift cuffs . Dragging him to his feet. The pain of the rope scratching his wrists made him resist, recoiling from you.

"Do you want help or not !" You snapped hauling his wrists tighter, as you backed into the stable doors. He trudged after you. "Thank you, fuck , thank you..." The words spilled from the stranger's lips. The stranger's eyes snapped open, and before he knew it, you were propelling him over one of the bales of hay . With a smallish yelp leaving his lips.

Cluelessly he tried to adjust himself, unable to with ease, as he was still cuffed . For a moment you swore you caught a scowl on his brow. Not that you care, but it did bemuse you. He was lucky, as at least now, he was out of sight of whatever trouble he'd dragged here with him. Before leaving you pressed your finger to your lip in a hushing motion as you stepped back outside to face the music. Clutching the door shut the troublesome group drew closer. Treading boldly with your head high, you stepped out in front of their path.

"Well, howdy..." You offered them. Many of the men's faces were adorned with deeply etched scars, their clothing dirty, shredded and aged. The one catching your eye, you presumed to be the leader. His face furrowed and wrinkled, almost like he had been chewed up and spit back out. The hat he wore appeared warped. Wide-brimmed leather, there were loose threads and overall it was in tatters. Eying the holes across it, you would be wise to assume they were from bullets. Hacking back a snarling cough, chewing tobacco flew from his lips, just inches from you. How lovely. You blinked with a glare.

"Who do I owe the pleasure, gentlemen?" Giving a painfully exaggerated curtsey. The action gave the lackeys a sly chuckle. Some disguising it with a cough. Though you weren't paying them much mind . Shifting to an upright position. The leader's eyes never left your face, a cold hollow stare. As if memorising every trace of your being. The type of stare that feels like you need to turn away. But you didn't. You kept your eyes on his, not to be intimidated .

"Looking for someone. Proper trouble-maker. You seen' em? Scrawny little bitch, dressed like a damn clown." He rasped.

Thinking a moment, you cocked your head to the side, your eyes stayed on his. Thinking carefully before speaking.

"Hm, sounds quite the character ." You quipped. "I'm certain I'd remember someone like that, but no. Ain't seen nobody for days, with me being in shitstain middle of nowhere." You gave a forced smile. You liked the middle of nowhere, as typically you don't deal with these types.

The steely eyes of said stranger burned through you, staring as he crinkled them, brow lowering. "You sure about that girly ?..." The husky drawl of the voice dragged the words out slowly. Nipping your tongue with contempt in your eyes. Ignore it. " Oh, I am more than sure." You snapped back.

Gesturing with your hand to point off in the distance. "If you head on down beyond the canyon, there is a town. If this, well, whatever he may be..."

" Thief ." The leader snarled.

"Well, if this thief of yours has sense, he is likely heading for 'Peony Ridge'. Though, I doubt he can outrun you on foot. Unless he outsmarts you, maybe he already has. " You said a bit too arrogantly.

"No, no fucker that takes MY gold, my time and my fucking supplies outsmarts me, girly ." His words were like venom splattering across your skin . Searing your flesh. You had to bite back a sneering little smirk. But hey, at least you found out the fumbling idiot in the stable wasn't a murderous bastard . Just a thief.

The leader's eyes swallowed you whole. A cruel grunt exited him as he gestured to his group to get moving . Deliberately guiding his horse towards you to make you move back with a stumble. Fire burning in your gut as you watched them head off. Turning your back to them exhaling to the sky. Taking a moment of respite . Hearing them grow further and further away. You felt a sense of ease, the tight uncertainty in your chest subsiding .Till you heard a clatter within the barn.

Shooting your head to the left, you sighed a low frustrated breath. Kicking the door to the stables open. Your mouth hung loose as you saw he had managed to trip clear over the hay bales , you didn't know whether to laugh or scold. Inching towards him you grappled with the back of his shirt collar. Yanking a roll of rope from the beams holding the stable sturdy. You brought him to face you.

"You are going to cause me a world of trouble, huh?" Taunting as you said it. Entangling his wrists with the rope. A running theme for the poor fool. However, better that you be safe than sorry. The ropes grew tighter and more secure as he pleaded.

"Please, I can go, and I promise, I will never come back." You hooked the end of the rope around him, nudging your body into his. Pinning him against the beam that the rope originally hung. Entangling him tightly

He continued to protest, and eventually, you spoke again. "Do not make me gag you." You gripped the collar of his shirt. "You are alive, no thanks to yourself!"

Completely unsure what to do with him, at least for now, convinced he wasn't going anywhere. You abandoned him. Heading to the cabin. In a

pitiful mood. That is when the thoughts began flooding your mind.

Let him run , he will no doubt die.

Why does it matter if he does?

Pressing the bridge of your nose tightly between your fingers. You were not that heartless. Pushing that thought to the back of your mind.

Well, you could always take the money and send him on his way, no ?

However, what stops him from ratting you out to that gang? As inevitably, they will catch up to him.

Worse, what if they came back anyway ? When you were most surely alone, outnumbered. Out-gunned.

Time was quickly getting away from you. Fleeting by as you quarrelled with your thoughts. Thinking swirled enough to make you dizzy. When a loud crash, followed by light caught your attention, eventually . It was thunder. A well-brewed storm rolling through. After the scorching sun rays of the past days. It was a source of solace.

Blinking, dazzled slightly by the bright flash. A twinge of guilt rattled you as you recollected. You had left him trapped like prey in the stable. The rain would surely leak through and soak him to the bone.

"Ah, curse my foolish mind." You muttered. That feeling of pity became all-consuming. You clutched a tray from the small cabinet. Taking an array of minor medical supplies: gauze, homemade soothing balms and other little tinctures. Lastly a cup of water. You set it down for a moment, reaching to lift your hat from the sideboard, and placing it firmly on your head. Catching a glimpse of yourself in the reflection of the window. Licking your thumb you scrubbed the little dirt marks from your skin. Suddenly blushing at your efforts. Before wearing that well-acquainted scowl. Feeling more than ridiculous. You reached your hand out, snatching your leather duster from the coat rack. Wrapping yourself in it. The stand wobbled with a rumble, your hands clasped on the little metal tray. Covering it as best you could when you wandered into the storm.

Hastily dashing to the stable. On the way by you balanced the tray on one hand. Clasping at the reigns of Milly, guiding your sweet mare behind you. To save her from the downpour. As you met the entrance to the stable. However, you had not yet quite figured out your next steps. After all, the last thing you wanted was to stoop to the low level of bandits and outlaws. In your own way, you were trying to help him. Aware your help was not quite the type he expected and played out more like a kidnapping.

Well shit, it's better than him being dead, right?

You froze a little before entering . Listening intently to the silence. It made you uneasy. Maybe he was gone? Stepping closer you nudged the door open with the end of your foot, peeking your head in, Milly traipsing behind. It was dark inside, cold . The scent of hay filters into your nose. The dust in the air tickled softly.

"Hello?.." You whispered. Hearing a slight sigh, the scratching of rope on the wooden beam. "Still here.." He mumbled, with disturbance. Kneeling for a brief moment to set down the little tray. You listened to him strain. He did so in a nosey fashion, as he heard the clinking of the small remedies. The glow of the moon crept through the cracks of the structure, as the rain crashed down. Watching as somehow in the dark you found his eyes as moonlight glinted over them. That familiar gold dripped through the hazel. You wondered if your eyes did the same, perhaps not as... Nevermind.

Reaching into the airy pocket of your coat, you clutched at the square lighter within. Thumb tracing the smooth engravings, before taking it out, and flicking the dial, sparks flying as the flame caught to life. There was a stare that he shared with you. Wetting his lips, he swallowed dryly. You stood to guide sweet Milly to her pen. He watched you. Feeling his gaze burn into your back as you secured her safely. Resting your head on her snout. Offering a sombre peck to the long bridge of her nose. Ruffling the hair on her head as you smiled at her whinnies. By her stall a little candle dish set on the floor, well used. Not much life left in the the wax, but it will do. Sparking the lighter a few times before it caught alight, fire catching against the blackened wick.

Returning to him you crouched. Face to face with him, this time with a warm golden glow washing over you both . Setting the candle to the side carefully. Your voice croaked a little as you tried to speak, looking down a little. "I still don't know your name." Unravelling some of the bandages on the tray, and dousing some cotton rag in an antiseptic-like solution.

"Uh, it's... it's Josh." He watched you carefully as he said it. Extending your hands, you slowly began loosening the restraints, realising you had tied them far tighter than necessary. Hesitating a moment. "I ain't here to hurt you, or, whatever else you may be thinking. I just, if you had run any farther west, they'd have caught you in no time." You hummed a little with your words. Tracing your thumb over the rough scraped skin of his hands.

"I... well, you might be right." He spoke hoarsely. Lips chapped slightly. "You didn't have to tie me down like a dog though ."

A smirk painted over your lips. "Oh, I would never dream of treating a dog in such a way." Flicking your eyes back to his, the corners of his eyes crinkled with a slight scoff. "Hmph, thanks..." He muttered.

"Sit up." You motioned, shifting to sit with your legs tangled into a basket . Further separating the ropes, seeing the deepened wounds of his wrists. More like lacerations. Josh flinched some , his fingers trembled as the air finally hit the blistered skin. Compelled to , an apology left your lips. Josh shook his head.

"Was mostly their doing." You could tell he was fibbing a little as he avoided your gaze but appreciated the reassurance. "What're you doing?" Murmuring as he said it.

"It will nip, a little. But, I promise it'll help." Giving one of his hands a quick squeeze, as you dabbed the cotton to his wrist, a short array of curses eluded him, as he tried to resist any further complaint. Knuckles hot-white as his fingers curled against your palm all too tightly.

"Sorry.." Josh groaned, sucking his bottom lip into his mouth. You tried to push it to the back of your mind, as it likely hurt merely a fraction of the pain in his wounds. Touching as lightly as you could with the cotton. Setting it aside. Josh's callous rough fingers stayed wrapped over yours, as your fingers dipped into the small mixture of balm. Sliding it like a glaze across his wrists. Feeling as your eyes widen. The noise he made, was that of relief. Your stomach stirred as he let out a low gravelly hum.

You couldn't help but stare. A shaky breath left your lips, as you failed to stifle a laugh, a little smirk on your lips. One of his eyes opened. "Hmph, my misery funny to you , Ma'am?" You tilted your head. "Does it not feel a bit better at least?" Leaning forward as you cooed. It was mockingly, but you saw that curl at the corners of his lips. Deciding to squash out the sudden properness in his tone. "It is not Ma'am." Correcting him, then uttering your name quietly. Leaning, you reached between you both and picked the bandage up between your fingertips. Wrapping it around one of his wrists, tying softly, but enough to secure it . Repeating it on the other.

Smiling, you took his hand and finally shook it with a laugh.

"Guess I should say thank you for earlier, despite you tying me up, not cool." He forced a smile. His voice lingered in your ears, unlike the others around these parts . Almost like he was from another time entirely.

" Cool? " You repeated with confusion. "Where are you from?" You asked. He shrugged, looking away a moment. You sighed. "Okay, then where are you trying to go?" You quizzed further.

The air caught in his throat. Narrowing your eyes, you lifted the little glass of water. No hesitation in him as he took it , his fingers brushed over yours as he pressed the cup to his lips, practically inhaling the water. Shifting your gaze to the now flickering light source, noticing the wick was quickly burning out. Standing, you lean to swipe the dust from your knees. You wanted to speak, struggling to find the words. "You can't... it is cold." That is all you managed to speak . Almost mouse-like, despite standing over him.

"It is." He affirmed. Then blinking catching on to what you meant in saying that.

"I mean... if you are offering. I- I promise, I will not bother you. I can even sleep on the floor..." He spoke with such urgency. There he was, on his knees again . It made your hands suddenly damp . That was until you heard the grumble of his stomach. It snapped you back to reality. Sharing a fond laugh with him

"Okay." You hissed softly. Backing up slightly, with a distracted misstep . Bumping into the door. You felt his eyes burn through you and cursed yourself for the stumble. Quick-stepping into the torrential rain. Feeling as the mud squelched under your feet. Compelled to look back. Seeing as he trailed behind, rushing to the cabin door as it swung open. The warmth hit you.

Within, the fire still kindling. The small sofa and little stool were coated in blankets, hand-knitted. You caught Josh's eyes wandering. A common fondness in his eyes. Scanning the badly hand-stitched embroidery hanging against the walls haphazardly. Woven garlands of fabric traced and filled the empty spaces. You stepped to him to push the door shut, till you heard it catch on the lock.

Josh moved foot-to-foot as he stared at the surroundings, catching you gazing at him . Choking on his words. "It's nice... your home I mean. Very, fittin'. Probably one of the loveliest places I have been since being here ... " Admittedly, it made you smile. You pulled the soaked coat off and set your hat aside on that same sideboard you had grabbed it from. Bent over you yanked off the muddy boots. Piping up. "So you're a city boy I take it? The West too much for you so far?" Josh rubbed the back of his neck as you said it. "Something like that." He remarked . Which made you roll your eyes. Quickly, he was becoming a walking mystery, or pain in your ass .

Your eyes observed him as he removed his boots too , careful not to wobble into anything. Hairs fell forward on your face. When you could smell yourself . It wasn't horrible but it certainly wasn't pleasant . A faint lavender scent, smothered with the earthy scent of dirt and oak. The smell of your sweat lingered. Gross . Albeit, he certainly smelled worse.

Like him, you felt that familiar pang of hunger rumble into your stomach. For now, that was a priority. The cabin was mostly the one room, minus the small little bathroom that was at the back, and the bedroom to the left. Both were hidden behind old oak doors. The kitchenette had a little round table and stools. In the centre of the table a little mason jar, filled with daisies and dandelions. Moving toward the sink you nudged one one of the stools with your foot. Tilting your head towards it, when Josh sheepishly walked over, his socks squelching, leaving footprints in his trail.

Your hands sank into the water of the sink, scrubbing. Rolling your sleeves as you turned while drying your palms.

"Do you want food?" You blurted . "God, yes." He exhaled. It brought

that familiar grin on his lips and yours in return.

"There ain't much but, I can make it work." You moved around

the small space. Feeling his eyes watch you. Each time you turned slightly, his gaze would divert shyly. To anywhere but your eyes. Clutching plates from the cabinet, you warmed soup you'd made earlier in the day. Home-grown vegetables , roasted and bobbing atop the surface as it drew closer to a simmer. Slicing crispy sliced baked bread, perhaps a bit too crispy , but beggars can't be choosers.

You had an anxious sensation swell in your stomach as you poured the soup into bowls. Used to keeping yourself fed only, suddenly worried he'd find the food repulsive. Nevertheless, you sat a small plate of sliced bread on the table. Then the bowls, sitting across from him. The only sound was the flames flickering within the fireplace.

He seemed apprehensive. "It ain't poisoned." You playfully whispered, tasting it first. Josh scoffed. "I, just... thank you." He beamed, his face still smeared with much and whatever else. Your eyes danced across the freckles on his cheeks as you mumbled. "Welcome." Capturing that face of relief when he tasted it, mumbling incoherently as he started eating it more ravenously.

The quietness continued, filled by the faint eating sounds. It wasn't a painful silence. It was calming , it felt serene. Used to your own company, voice, breathing. Suddenly that space filled with the presence of another.

Finally, his warm gravelly voice killed that quietness.

"That is the best fucking soup I think I have ever eaten in my life." Saying it with such a moaned-out grumble. You knew he was exaggerating, but appreciated the sentiment all the same. Observing as Josh wiped his lips with the back of his hand.

"Well, I hope you can accept it as a form of apology." You retorted but he simply shook his head chuckling .

"I have been in a bad way for weeks, hell months , I just...I am trying to get home." You wished you knew where that may be when he said it. However, you decided not to press him further.

"And the gang? How does a pretty little city boy end up tied up with a bunch like them ?" You asked genuinely. He stopped a moment. "I thought... if I could take the gold, I could get to a town or something not..." He stopped.

"Somewhere not in the middle of the Wild West. You are certainly a fool." The remark left your lips before you could stop it.

"Yet, you still helped me. Why ?" Josh tilted his head asking the question. Amusement painted across his face, a goofy grin on his lips. The kind that makes your legs weak, and your heart flutter. Stop it. You chastised yourself.

You felt a warmth in your cheeks. Hoping to the high heavens he couldn't see it . Shrugging slightly.

"Whatever your reason, I am genuinely thankful." Josh extended his hand to touch the back of yours. Patting it slightly.

You wondered if felt for him how it did for you . That tingle of electricity swarming through his fingertips. Undoubtedly a figment of your imagination, but it felt real . Flustered you stood up a little abruptly.

"I will get you some more blankets, for, the sofa." Shaking his hand from yours, he nodded quickly. Lips parted as if he may speak, but promptly clasping back shut.

Josh's hand retreated to his lap. You set up a little bed on the sofa. Sniffing the pillow consciously. It smelled like you, not in a bad way. You hoped it wouldn't bother him, deep down you hoped he might even like it. Burying that thought.

"I don't have much you can wear unless one of my skimpier nightgowns takes your fancy." A smirk on your lips as the image crept through your mind, how shameful. Seeing how his cheeks burned up. In defiance, he teased. "Skimp-ier?" Feeling a hot wash of embarrassment paint your skin.

"I didn't think you'd say yes, you..." Unable to find the words to bite back at his insolence . "But, I can wash your clothes so they at least dry for tomorrow." You swallowed quietly.

Josh was quiet for a mere moment. You wished he had stayed quiet longer. "Seems you are eager to see me in my underwear..." He said with a wily little grin, as you instantly shook your head stuttering . "I just don't want you stinking up my blankets, why, do you want me to see them? Are they skimpy ?" Biting back at his teases.

Josh shook his head with a childish snicker. "No more than your nightgowns." Oh, how you wished you had kept your damn mouth shut.

Josh gave himself a quick sniff. "Maybe you are right , I can't remember the last time I washed. Leaning into you deliberately. "G-gross." You nudged him back with your hand.

There was a bit of quietness before he spoke. "Well, whatcha going to do about it?" Josh joked. Folding your arms defiantly. "Well for starters, I can draw you a bath. You need to learn to simply ask ."

Putting on a sweet like honey voice. "Can I have a bath, please ?" He leaned forward, and his goofy grin returned.

With that, you set the cast iron pot on the stove, leaving it to boil as you prepped the rest. "You're an idiot..." You called out from the bathroom.

Against your better judgment, you tossed some of the flowers and herbs into the tub. Out of instinct. As they twirled on the surface of the water. Seeing he caught you. "I stink that bad?!" Folding his arms as he leaned on the door frame. Trying your best to ignore him as you collected the pot, tipping it into the wooden timber tub. Picking up a plush towel and placed it in his hands as you squeezed by him in the narrow doorway.

"Thank you, again. For like, well everything, I mean it." Before pointing at you playfully. "Except for tying me up." Josh's smile burned against you , his grip on your forearm with his other hand had you frozen in place .

"You don't need to keep thanking me..." You muttered. The hazel eyes stayed locked on yours. "I know, but... I want to." He leaned in as he said it. Coarse fingertips lingered on your skin before he took a deep breath letting go. Dawdling a moment, unable to slow your sharp heartbeats.

He wandered into the bathroom. Leaving you stuck in time for a moment.

Then with his back turned to you, he began loosening the buttons to his shirt. Why aren't you looking away?

His belt toppled to the floor as he untucked the tail of the shirt . Feeling your breaths quicken , the fabric dripping down from his shoulders. Scars and bruises speckled on his back. Your mind drifts, thinking of your fingertips curved against his waist. Feeling the goosebumps of his skin rise under your touch. Animal-like as your mouth wetted at the thought.

Watching as his damn jeans hugged his thighs and rear. Condemning yourself for being so entranced in his body. Soon he was in nothing but the boxers. Josh bent over and bundled up the stained clothes. Finally, you dragged your pervasive stare from him.

Walking to you as he handed them over, with a flushed stare. Hoping you didn't look as pink as he did. Leaning over you slightly, he wasn't that much taller, but enough to make you look you have to bend your neck back. Grasping at the clothes. Stepping back with a little stifled gigglish breath, embarrassingly tripping on the rug as you nodded to him. His smile was so warm, and reassuring. Using his palm, he swung the door over. Though not all the way.

Your ears perked hearing every swish and ripple of the water. As you settled by the sink, lifting his shirt before you. Don't, please . Unable to control yourself you had your face buried in the neckline of it. Inhaling the smell, of him. Stop it, stop it .

Scrunching the clothes in your hands, pushing them into the hot water. Scrubbing, trying to filter out those sumptuous thoughts . Thinking of your hands replacing his , stroking along his inner thighs beneath the waterline. Fingers lost in his hair, feeling his breath cascading down your neck. You whimpered like an injured animal. Pressing your burning cheeks into your wet palms, bent over the sink. Perhaps if he was the one pinning you there, you wouldn't be having such a hard time right now.

Quickly you hung the wet clothes by the fireplace. Peeking through the cracks of the door , your eyes found the nape of his neck. Capturing how his hair stuck down, short curls splayed wetly on his head. He was buried in the water. Why did he leave the damn door open?

It felt like your own personal hell, utter torture. Guilt radiated through you as you watched him swirl the water with his fingertips.

Time passed, and you confined yourself to your room till he was finished. Evidently, unable to control your wandering eyes. Hearing him finally come out of the bathroom, you heard some things knocking about. Furrowing your brow, as you listened closely. Then hearing the steam of the iron pot whistling sharply. Drifting your eyesight to the door you heard him move around the cabin. Peeling yourself off the bed to see what he was doing. Holding a white dressing gown in hand. Planning to bathe before sleep. Catching him walking out of the bathroom. Boxers on and the towel you'd given him rest round the back of his neck, falling over his shoulders.

"I... I thought you maybe wanted to use it next ... It is a bit of a hassle." He pointed. Wiping his sleepy eyes. A little startled. Do not look. You repeated in your mind.

"T-thank you." That was all you managed to stammer from your lips. Side-stepping by him, into the bathroom. Pressing the door shut, leaning your back against it firmly. The less time around him, the better. The room stunk sweetly of rose and thyme. You looked at the tub. Way, way , too many petals poured inside it. You weren't sure if you should be insulted that maybe he thinks you smelled that bad, going as far as to sniff yourself one last time. Deciding it is best to be grateful he reciprocated the action.

You let time pass, sunk into the hot water. Your nostrils peeked out so you could still breathe with the lower half of your face dunked in. Hair floating on the surface of the water. Weightless as you blocked out the day. It felt like you were hiding. You eventually had to get out. Slipping into the nightdress, with wet messy hair and feeling the weariness of the day catching up. You stepped out to the suddenly more cramped living space of the cabin , a steamy mist following you as you caught him curled sleepily on the sofa.

As if willing himself to stay awake. That damn crooked smile formed back on his lips. "...Hey..." Josh yawned. "Thought you'd be asleep by now." You noted. "Is that what you were hoping ?" Josh raised his eyebrow as he asked it.

Shaking your head. "Just thought you may be too tired to stay awake."

Pausing a moment, feet planted on the floorboards. It felt like you were tangled in a web, tugging yourself out as you finally found the will to move.

" Goodnight, Josh. " You said with a forced grimace.

Burying yourself in the thin bed sheets . Tugging them over your head . With time slowly, slowly , passing. Soon you tossed. Then turned, hearing as the wooden frame of the bed creaked faintly. Before giving up, laid flat out like a star staring at the beams on the ceiling . Blinking in the darkness. Giving up, you swung your legs out of the bed and moved clumsily to find the door in the darkness, opening it as quietly as you could . However, when you stepped out of the room, you were met by a warm wall. No, not quite. Hands planted against chest skin.

Of course, it was Josh.

"Wh-what are you doing !" You squeaked with fright. "S-sorry! Sorry, you seemed ... restless..." He mumbled with a flinch.

"What were you thinking ? I knew I should have left you tied up ..." You scold. "How long have you been standing here?!"

"I- don't know . n-NO ! I mean ... what I mean is I don't know why I came to the door." The words came from him in rushed whispers. In a sleep-deprived haze.   

Tilting your head back, focusing on his face . Trying to read him. The only light bouncing off of you both was that of the moon. Catching those flecks of gold dancing across the hazel of his eyes. They melted you .

It took you nearly too long to realise his fingers were surrounding your wrist. Squeezing, but barely. In the twilight, his face inches from yours, whispering gently. "I am sorry, I-   I will go back to bed." Josh shifted on his feet. Yet stayed put.

"I think that would be for the best." You fibbed. Neither of you moving. Trying and failing to block the thoughts washing over your mind. So close you could taste his breaths. Josh leaned slightly into you, lingering in intimate space before he spoke. The words trapped in his throat. Though, you didn't retreat, feeling his lips ghost across yours. Even if just a moment. You couldn't shake how it would feel to steal a kiss. Just one. Finally, Josh piped up in the tense quietness. "Would it?... Would it be for the best?" He hummed. A strained objection in his voice.

You blinked, lashes fluttering against your upper cheeks. Watching his head dip down to yours, pressing his forehead into yours. The feeling of his lips curving against yours. Using what little restraint he had left. "I- ... You are quite the tease... Josh" You cooed, your voice breaking.

In the dark his hands slithered to your waist, the cotton of the nightdress bunching under his touch. Josh's rough fingertips digging into your skin . Biting at your flesh. A whimper escaped you, as his touch loosened softly. But you clutched at his pained wrists, desperate for him to not draw away. The need for his touch burned in your chest, feeling touched by fire. Then you heard his wincing. Releasing his bandaged wrist.

"S-sorry.." You murmured. "S'okay." The reassurance in his voice was soothing. Josh stepped closer, hands hovering before grasping at your body. Understanding now , the whimper was more of a beg falling from your lips. One hand slid against the small of your back, fingertips dancing up your spine and finally, he cradled the nape of your neck. Breaths scattered over your mouth, his lips pressed against yours. Finally, nothing else in your mind, but him.

You felt the staggering of his body pushing against yours. Then the peppering of gentle kisses at first. Eventually sucking at your bottom lip, tugging it between his teeth. Stiff at first, though you quickly faltered in his embrace. You wanted more, no you needed. Longing for his touch, his kiss and his taste . Your hand reached to caress Josh's cheek. Your other hand curled round the back of his neck tightly. Then he leaned in hungrily, tongue gliding over your own. Shuddering, fearing you would melt under his gentle touches.

Pushing you further into the room. His foot nudged the door shut clumsily. Nearly tripping, because you refused to release your grip on his soft cheeks. A shred of laughter left you. Catching the moonlight on his cheeks, dusted with pink. Soon your back was pushed into the wall, quickly Josh moved from your lips. Clenching your nails into his waist, little curved imprints speckled on his skin. Your thoughts flurried. Feeling the pooling in your underwear as Josh groped at you. Lifting at the hem of the nightdress, hands scrambling to touch your bare skin. The sensation of his breaths hitching, as he heard your pleading noises. Trying to hide his groans he kissed deeply at your neck. Your head hit the wall as you looked at the ceiling. Wanting his mouth on yours, but somehow on your neck, it felt infinitely better. Huffing at the cold air softly. You needed him. Flinching slightly as suddenly the wet kisses nipped. Glowering at him, realising you could feel his smirk curl against your skin.

"You, fiend ." The words escaped you as you saw the love bites stain your skin. "I can't help it... fuck, look at you. " The words left his quivering lips like a snake. Even under the guise of the lowlight, you could see the trail of deep red blemishes scattered over your collarbone and chest. Knowing they would inevitably bruise. Deep down you wanted that . Those little reminders, of his lack of self-control.   

Josh's attention shifted. Feeling him dragging his tongue over the thin straps of the nightdress, taking it between his teeth as his lustful eyes caught your own. Tugging the fabric till it frayed and tore for him. Your fingers tugging at the hairs on the back of his head. Josh lowered, fluttering his tongue against your nipple, panting hot breaths as he felt you jolt alive under that touch. "You are so beautiful ..." It escaped like a growl, rumbling on his lips . Watching as he lapped and twirled his tongue lewdly . Unable to contain your thoughts of him dragging you to the floor with him, and bending you over.

Captivated by him, your eyes never left as he sank to his knees for you. Scratchy rough palms stroking over your legs. Keeping your pretty face in his sight, he lowered planting his hands on the floor and began pressing his lips to your right ankle, pouring kisses up along your shin, and working his way around the inside . Grasping your leg till it hooked over his shoulder. Kisses flooded your inner thigh, feeling as his tongue licked at your exposed skin. Those devilish love bites returned. Though it was the real bite against your skin that made you physically vibrate. Jerking as you grunted. "Take it off... please ." Josh pleaded. Pushing the bottom of your nightgown upward , his sweet beg ringing in your ears.

Worshipping you . Clutching the fabric you tore it off over your head. Your hair was tangled. You couldn't control your shivers as the strands tickled against your chest. Kneading his fingers deep into the curves of your hips , his lips pressed against your cunt, hidden with the soft cotton underwear. Snapping your head forward suddenly . Looking down at him. His face was dusted in warm flushed pinks, as he murmured. "W-what?" Kissing your thigh so gently . Loosening his clutch, only just.

You were more of the giver , so to speak . The hesitation on your face was telling . Struggling to articulate and form a sentence. Anything, you couldn't get the thoughts out.

"You haven't?..." He quizzed. Stammering as you shook your head vigorously. "I-...H-have, just, not whatever y-you are trying to do." You exhaled breathily.

" Oh ... Please. Please, can I?" He knew what he was doing , you could see it in his eyes, how they glimmered as he licked his lips. Dragging his tongue up the inside of your thigh. Blowing hot breaths over your skin. "I want to taste you, to feel you against my tongue... just think, how badly I can make you writhe till you coat my lips in your sweet messy fucking cum ... Let me taste your cum.. ." Josh was begging hungrily. You felt yourself burn red, pulling his hair tighter back from you. Seeing a wicked smirk turn on his lips. You knew he could feel your leg shaking against his back. Smoothing his fingers against the goosebumps forming. "You are... so fucking filthy ..." You huffed through your own words.

"Do you trust me?" Josh questions pressing his lips back to the cotton . Sucking against the darkened fabric where your pleasure pooled under the fabric. A small squeak left your lips. Wondering how you tasted, catching how he sighed and bit on his lower lips. Returning for more.

He just looked so pretty on his knees. The words that left him like a prayer.

Eventually, you couldn't refrain from nodding quickly for him. "Use your words, say it. Say you want my mouth on your pussy." Pleading as he toyed with you. Breaking you down. "Please... please let me feel y-your mouth on my cunt..." The words left like a melody. Josh could barely control himself. Reluctantly his tongue retreated, teeth gripping and snapping at the waistband of your underwear. Pulling the remainder with his fingertips. Rasping he stood and pulled you up into his arms, palms pulling you by your thighs up into his embrace. Burying his face in your neck, as your arms hooked around his neck. Mind racing, you had thought how it would feel, and as he lifted you with such ease you couldn't control that need to flood his neck with soft kisses.

It was a short few steps before you were thrown against the bed with shy laughter escaping you. Catching how he admired you even in the dark. Without hesitation, Josh's lips crashed against yours, feeling him pressing you into the mattress. You couldn't control the noises that fled from your mouth as he dragged his lips down your bare skin softly, over your tummy, your hip bone gently. Hooking both your legs over his shoulders. Resting your feet over his back he pressed the most delicate kisses over your folds. Hot breaths washed over you, feeling him inhale the scent of you. Mesmerised.

Watching how his tongue inched out from between his lips. Jolting upward as you hunched forward, feeling how his tongue fluttered over your needy pussy, dragging from your leaking cunt, to aching clit. Handfuls of the sheets balled into your fists. Tugging fiercely at the fabric. Josh's name rolled from your tongue occasionally, and each one seemed to rile him further. Worsening when your thighs clenched tight against his cheeks. Feeling the coarse stubble on his cheeks rub on your skin. Unable to decide whether to drag his face deeper into your thighs or stop him as you began unravelling.

"I- I can't -" You stuttered. " Yes you can , I know you can... Shhh let go ... I need you to cum for me." He hummed and cooed. Lapping relentlessly at your clit, swirling around in delicate flicks. Kissing and sucking against it when he heard your sigh of relief. Eventually smothering his tongue over your sensitive sweet spot, till he could hear your irresistible cursing. Praising you . Wanting nothing but to hear more .

" Good girl , just like that." Purring against you as you seemed to lull. So devious to call you that. Locking onto his eyes again, slowly two of his fingers curled deep inside of your cunt. Stretching around the rough fingertips, as they delved deeper. Feeling your slick wet mess quickly coat them. Losing yourself in the desire you felt for him, the world fading away. Unable to look away as you mouthed incoherently.

But he understood entirely.

Softly fucking at your sweet drooling pussy, lips enveloped over your clit as he sucked pulling smoothly. Focused on you, only you . Abruptly, you tugged on his curls. Arching your back. A wet rush of cum pushed from your cunt. Soaking his mouth. Unable to control himself as he slurped against your drenched pussy. Licking you clean. As you tugged your legs to your chest stopping him a moment. Attempting to catch your breath . Catching a glimpse of his face under the cold light of the moon. Biting your lips you see your climax drip from his chin to his chest.

"Better?" He hummed with arrogance. What a cocky little shit . However, you still nodded your head as you moaned calmly. " Fuck... " The words left you with a low hiss. Watching his fingers withdraw, he sucked against them. It nearly ruined you. As your cunt clenched at the sight.

He wasn't finished . Thank god . Yelps left your mouth as you felt Josh drag you closer. Clenching at your waist “I need you…” He said firmly. Tip of his tongue dancing over the darkening bruises planted across your neck from his incessant biting. Then his fingers trapped your wrists under his touch.

Pleading with yourself to refrain, but unable to. “ Fuck me." The words left you without a sense of control. "Fuck me, Josh, I want to feel you…I crave you…” The perverse pleading that evaded your lips caused him to whine as his cock twitched under the loose boxers. Bumbling as he wriggled, pushing them down quickly. Pouncing against your body, one hand planted by your face, the other clasping against his shaft stroking his length for a moment . Getting off to the sight of you beneath him. Head thrown back as his groans met the air, and without warning, he was sliding his length over your folds. The feeling of his pre-cum leaking against your clit as his noises rasped in his throat. Knowing you were still tender .   Basking in your harmonious breathing.

Your hollow cunt begged for him . But you could only mewl.

"Josh, please ." Hearing you was so tempting, but he relished that you were so hopeless . "You are so pretty when you beg , though." Your brow furrowed as you bucked your hips for more. Watching that coy little smirk flow across his lips, he hoisted your legs up and pinned them back into the mattress. The tip sank forward as his breaths caught in his throat. You felt it too , that stretch . Clawing at the bed , your face twisted with passion. The grasp of his hold on your thighs bruising . But fuck . It felt good. Teasing only half-way, before sliding his hips back. Grunting , his need consumed him slamming his hips forward. Your legs jerked forward resisting his grip, as he planted them back down. Crying out, the noise crackling in your throat.

Finding a deep rhythm heaving breaths left his mouth. " Fuck... fucking Christ you are so tight ." Josh raked his nails against your skin. But you could only whimper. It made him grin, hunching against you, holding you in place. Kissing your jaw. "... You are fucking dripping , aren't you?" Incapable of hiding it, hearing the soaked noises. A flash of red burning your face. Josh was then nipping your earlobe between his teeth as his hips slapped against yours with each thrust. Enjoying how you broke beneath him. One of his hands dragged against your inner leg, caressing your hip bone. The rough fingertips found their way to your cunt. As he fucked you senseless. Thumb pressing and grinding against your clit, circular movements driving you wild. Between the pressure there, and the hitting of his cock against your G-spot. You quickly began to unravel , reaching out and grasping at his tensed wrist.

"T-too much...I-" Shaking your head as your legs shuddered, your cunt clenched against him. He couldn't control himself as he spluttered . "Cum.... fuck, cum on me, please. Please ." Grunting as he pressed his weight into you. Pressing his forehead down on yours , his breath washed over your lips as he groaned deeply. Holding back, straining, the veins in his forearms flexed.

Fingers still laced on his wandering hand, nails burrowed into his bandages. Your other palm was thrown around to grip the back of his neck dragging him closer as you caught his lips with yours. Feeling his sweat dripping from his curls through your fingers, grabbing the hair in your clutch. His name left your lips feeling his thrusts falter as your grip around his shaft grew unbearable. Your wet messy orgasm rushed from your cunt and drenched his length. Screaming with ecstasy as he growled. "That's it babygirl , you want my cum huh ? You want me to fuck it deep inside of you ?". Wordless as you nodded. Wincing, as his teeth bit down on your shoulder, a cry of fucking relief fled his lips. The heat of his orgasm washed through you, as his throbbing cock twitched and spilled inside your walls. Tangled within your grip, you couldn't let go, scratching your nails against his back.

" Shit .." Josh hummed softly, collapsing against you breathless. Finding your face, his hand clasping at your cheeks, brushing the hairs back. "You alright?" He asked as you'd barely found the words to speak. A little laugh left his quivering lips. "Yeah, thought so..." His face resting between your breasts. Catching his breath.

"You are a mess..." You quipped jokingly. Making him laugh a deep gravelled scoff. "You're one to talk." Tugging his hips back shakily. As you felt the mixture of messy cum leak from you, dribbling over the sheets. Savouring that depraved sensation. Josh smoothed his palm against your tender fucked hole, tongue dragging over his lip. Pushing his load back inside with his fingers . Gazing over you as you squirm.

Nudging him with your foot. "T-too, sensitive..." You whine. "Oh, I bet " He pouts, mocking your little pleas. Slipping them free from your grip. Leaning over your well-spent body as his fingers dripped wetly over your chest. Dangling over your lips. No words were needed, as your lips parted. Catching those callous fingertips. Josh smeared them over your lips like a glaze, pushing them into your mouth as you sucked the taste of sex from them. Your eyes danced over his freckles as his cheeks warmed with a beautiful pink. You giggled softly as he rolled off of your body sighing. "You, are going to kill me doing that." He groaned. Side by side with you. Josh turned his head to kiss your shoulder softly.

" Still want me to go back to bed?" Shifting playfully as if to leave. Your hand Grappling at his upper arm pulling him back. "Don't you dare..." The words shot from your lips as you pulled him back into the bed. Smirking as you heard Josh's warm laughter fill the quiet room. Enveloping your waist in his arms, snatching at the blanket. "Don't gotta tell me twice." He mumbled into the nape of your neck sleepily. The feeling of the sheets falling over you both . Drowning you. The smile on his lips curled against your skin. Feeling him drift off.

" Finally sleepy enough ?" You teased. Cursing at you under his breath. Squeezing you closer to him. "Just, shh ..." Murmuring, heavily kissing between your shoulders.