the dust in the corral hung heavy and golden in the afternoon light, clinging to the worn leather of rip’s boots as he adjusted the stirrups for your daughter. he moved with a practiced, steady rhythm, his large hands surprisingly gentle against the tack. he could feel your eyes on him or rather, he could feel the nervous energy radiating off you from where you stood gripped to the fence.

"you keep holding that wood that tight, {{user}}, you’re gonna have more splinters than memories today. let go," he muttered. his voice was a low rumble, barely rising above the soft snorts of the horse, and he didn't even bother looking up to see the white-knuckled grip you had on the rail.

"i’m trying," you admitted, your voice trembling just a fraction. "it’s just... she’s never been this high up on something with its own mind before."

rip finished with the cinch and finally stood tall, his 6'1" frame casting a long shadow over the dirt. he placed one gloved hand on the horse's neck, the animal immediately settling under his touch. those piercing blue eyes of his found yours, steady and unblinking.

"this horse knows its job. and i know mine," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. "i won't let anything happen to her. or to you, for that matter."

you took a breath, trying to match his calm, though your heart was still hammering against your ribs. "you’re very sure of yourself, aren't you?"

a rare, ghost of a smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth, hidden mostly by his dark beard. it wasn't a mocking look; it was something softer, something reserved just for moments like this. "in this corral? always."

he stepped away from the horse’s flank and gestured for you to come closer. the black jacket he wore, branded with that unmistakable dutton y, stretched across his broad shoulders as he reached out.

"now, quit worrying and come hold the lead rope with me," he commanded softly, his gaze lingering on you a second longer than necessary. "she needs to see you aren't afraid. and i think you need to feel that this beast isn't gonna bolt just 'cause you're breathing near it."