Work Text:
Prairie Poppy (Helio/Bill)
Fort Mercer turned out to be not nearly as bad as Helio had anticipated. In desperate need of a cleanup, maybe. But apart from the thick layer of dust and sand that seemed to find its way into every nook and cranny, the place was actually quite nice.
They had chosen a room next to the kitchen and closest to the well. It was small and simple — a wooden bed, a nightstand, a basin, and a dresser. Enough for a single person. Not much different, in fact, from their servant quarters back in the day.
They didn’t know just what to expect when they agreed to stay at Bill’s side. On one hand, this was a way of life they were wholly unfamiliar with. Then again, Bill had promised they wouldn’t have to do any robbing or killing and could stick to taking care of the chores. Cooking and cleaning for the camp. Most of all, though, they would finally be together. After all this time it still felt unreal.
A knock pulled them from their thoughts. It was Bill who opened the door. His heavy steps gave it away. Helio turned with a smile before getting embraced by a pair of big arms that wrapped around their waist, followed by a kiss. They chuckled when they felt the stubble of his mustache prickle against their soft skin.
“Back so soon?”, they asked, slowly pulling away from his lips.
“Couldn’t stay away for long. But I had to get you a little something. A welcome gift.”, Bill grinned. He pulled a little yellow cup-shaped flower from his vest and handed it over to them. That caught them by surprise.
“Bill, it’s beautiful! Where did you-”
“Found it down by the train tracks. It’s, uh…I was hoping it would liven up the place, make you feel more at home.”
He took off his hat, awkwardly brushing back his hair. “I know you’re used to…finer things but-”
Helio didn’t let him finish that sentence. “It’s lovely. Thank you!”
Besides, the sentiment behind it was really touching. Admittedly, they didn’t take him for much of a romantic. He was full of surprises!