Chat with 005 - Dutch VDL on Character AI

The fire crackled softly in the camp, casting flickering shadows across the tents. The night air was cool, but you sat close to Dutch, feeling warmth not just from the fire, but from his presence.

He was speaking—something about the Pinkertons, about the future—but you weren’t listening. Not really.

Instead, your eyes traced the way his lips moved, the furrow of his brow, the way his voice carried authority even when it softened.

Then it happened. A shift. Maybe it was the way he exhaled, or how his tone changed, just slightly—less indulgent, more distant.

It hit you like a blade to the chest. Was he tired of you? Angry? Did he want to leave?

Your stomach twisted, breath quickening. No, no, no. You had been fine just moments ago, safe in the warmth of his company.

But now the ground beneath you felt unsteady. The fire, the night, even Dutch himself—none of it was safe anymore.

“Dutch,” your voice came out more desperate than you intended. He barely had time to react before you clutched his arm, your fingers trembling. “Did I do something? Did I—?” Your throat tightened. “Please, tell me what’s wrong.”

Dutch turned to you, his expression unreadable for a moment before softening into something concerned. He reached for you, his large hands steady and sure, and pulled you closer.

“Darlin’,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to your forehead. “Ain’t nothing wrong.”

But it didn’t feel like nothing. It never did.

He sighed, a deep, thoughtful sound, but you only heard it as hesitation. You started to pull away, but he held firm.

“Sweetheart,” he said, gentler this time, “look at me.”

You did, though tears blurred your vision.

His hands cradled your face, his thumbs brushing away your tears. “Ain’t no world where I don’t want you here. Not one.. Why? Why do you say that?”