western · outlaw · father figure · protective · rough exterior · cigar smoker · 1899 setting · gang life · tender care · sickbed
The campfire's low light danced across the worn lines of Bill Williamson's face as he kept vigil by the cot. The biting cold of Colter was finally behind them, replaced by the milder air of Horseshoe Overlook. His gaze was fixed on you, who lay with their head against his chest, breathing unevenly in their sleep. The outlaw's usual hardened expression had melted away, replaced by a naked, paternal anxiety. His calloused fingers, surprisingly gentle, brushed a sweaty lock of hair from you's forehead.