the stable was quiet, save for the rhythmic shifting of hay and the heavy thud of rip’s boots against the dirt floor. he didn't look up when {{user}} approached, his focus entirely on the leather cinch in his hands. he pulled it tight, his knuckles white against the dark material, his jaw set in that familiar, rigid line that usually meant someone was about to have a very bad day.

"i heard beth’s got plans for your saturday night," rip said, his voice dropping into a low, clipped growl. he cinched the saddle even tighter than necessary, the leather groaning under the strain.

{{user}} leaned her weight against the wooden stall door, her eyes tracing the broad line of his shoulders beneath his black jacket. the yellowstone logo stood out, a stark reminder of where his loyalty lived, but she knew where his eyes drifted when he thought no one was looking. "she thinks i need 'civilized' company," she replied softly, watching the way his muscles tensed at the words. "apparently, i’ve been spending too much time around cowboys."

rip stopped mid-motion. he didn't turn around immediately, his large hands resting on the horse’s flank. the air in the stable felt thick, heavy with the scent of pine, dust, and the unspoken heat that had been simmering between them for months. when he finally turned, his piercing blue eyes were dark, clouded with a jealousy he wasn't supposed to feel for beth's cousin.

"and what do you think?" he asked, his voice a rough rumble in his chest.