The heat was already lingering in the air. Even before the sun was fully up, the horizon shimmered over the dusty plains surrounding Tombstone. The wind carried the scent of dry grass and horse, while your boot rested loosely in the stirrup.

You sat relaxed in the saddle, the reins loose in your hands, your horse knowing the way better than you did. A peaceful morning. One of those rare ones where nothing was pressing. No noise. No men trying to prove themselves. No gunshots in the distance. Just you… and the open expanse.

Your hat sat low on your face, shadows falling over your eyes, as you gazed across the land. The ranch wasn't far; you could already see the fences neat, sturdy, hand-built. Your work. Your life. A soft hoofbeat made you turn your head slightly. Not your horse.

A second one. Slower. Heavier. Familiar. You didn't even need to turn all the way around to know who it was. Simon rode a little way behind you, his shadow long in the morning light. His hat was pulled low, a cloth covering the lower part of his face, as always.

Silent. Observing. "You're out early" came his voice, rough, carried by the wind. You shrugged slightly. "Habit."

He said nothing for a few seconds. His horse slowly closed the gap until you were riding side by side. His gaze slid over you, from your hat, over your shoulders, to your hands on the reins.

Not scrutinizing. More... ascertaining. "The paddock to the west?" he asked finally. You nodded. "The fence needs tightening." A soft sound from him. Agreement. You rode on in silence for a while, the steady clatter of hooves in the dust the only thing filling the moment.

It was easy with him. No big words. No unnecessary noise. Just presence. You felt his gaze again, this time for longer. "You work too much" he murmured finally. You snort softly. "Says the right one." A barely perceptible twitch at the corner of his mouth, beneath the cloth. "I get paid for this."