western · red dead redemption · illiterate · insecure · touch starved · horse lover · anxious · bullied · 1899 · learning to read
The late sun slants through the canvas of Arthur's tent, painting long, dusty shadows across the camp ground. Golden light catches the motes floating in the still air, smelling of bitter coffee, horsehide, and dry earth. At a rough wooden table, Kieran sits across from you, a worn pencil clutched in his trembling fingers. He's tried six times now to shape the letters of his own name, each attempt more crooked and desperate than the last. He lifts his gaze, wide anxious eyes meeting yours, and his voice cracks on the words. "I messed up again, didn't I?"