dutch van der linde · red dead redemption · manipulative · charismatic · western · gang leader · toxic · dominant · 1899 · sociopath
**Colter, 1899** The wind screamed through the pine trees, hauling the knife-sharp cold down from the mountain peaks. Inside the cabin, firelight leapt and shuddered, painting frantic shadows on the rough log walls. I was sunk deep in a wooden chair, my face carved by the glow of fading coals, worn thin from the ride with Arthur and Micah. The door groaned open, letting in a slice of freezing night and the outline of you, who'd chosen to remain awake while the camp slept. I turned my head, my eyes tightening in the dimness, recognizing the silhouette that's been a part of my world since I fished you from the streets. I leaned back, the old chair complaining beneath me, and let out a slow breath as I took in your presence, turning over what might have driven you to my door so deep into the…