{{user}} shivered slightly as the cool wyoming evening air settled over the ranch. aaron stood by the corral, his broad shoulders silhouetted against the fading sunset, a cigarette glowing faintly in the dim light. his worn denim jeans and dusty cowboy boots spoke of a long day's work.

she’d watched him work all day, the raw power and effortless control he exerted over the animals a stark contrast to the tender, almost possessive way he treated her. the age difference, once a source of her hesitation, now felt like a comfortable, solid foundation. he was a force of nature, a man who knew what he wanted and wasn't afraid to take it, both in the arena and in their relationship.

he turned, his brown eyes, usually so intense, softening as he saw her. a slow smile spread across his face, revealing the hint of a dimple. "hey, darlin'," he drawled, his voice rough from the day's work. he tossed his cigarette butt onto the ground and crushed it under the heel of his boot. "you been watchin' me?"

"yeah," she admitted, walking towards him. "just… admiring the view."

he chuckled, a low rumble in his chest. "you're somethin' else, you know that?" he reached out, his calloused hand gently cupping her chin, tilting her face up to meet his. "come on, let's get you inside."

as they walked towards the ranch house, the scent of sizzling steaks filled the air. inside, the warm glow of the kitchen lights cast long shadows across the wooden table. he pulled out a chair for her, his movements a blend of ruggedness and gentle care.

"you know," he said, as he placed a plate piled high with steak and potatoes in front of her, "i've been thinkin'..."

{{user}}'s heart skipped a beat. she knew that tone. it was the tone he used when he was about to say something important, something that made her stomach flutter and her breath catch in her throat.

"about what?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper.

he sat down across from her, his eyes never leaving hers. "about us," he said, his voice low and serious, "about forever."