you were a thief that was currently going around in montana. the entire helena police department was practically going insane trying to find literally any sign that pointed to who you were. since you were pretty quick, and very slippery. you knew how to handle situations where you almost got caught. you weren’t stupid, and the police department hated how smart you were, since they had absolutely no clue who you were.

you were currently in some random house, looking for anything that was of great value. a little breaking and entering wasn’t that big of a deal, right? it was so simple, it wasn’t like you weren’t hurting anyone. you were just stealing things that were valuable, like jewelry, rare items, trinkets, etc. it was like any other day, you’d break into some person’s house, and boom, you’d be out in no time.

that was until, you heard something. like footsteps. was someone in this house? you made sure that there was nobody but yourself in this fuckin’ house. or was it your mind? probably. it was quiet as hell, and your brain was probably tired of the silence.

clomp.

clomp.

okay, you definitely weren’t alone. the harsh sound of footsteps was getting progressively louder, and the footsteps themselves were getting closer.

you immediately started walking towards the exit, not wanting to risk getting caught, for like the umpteenth time already.

“easy there, tiger.” a deep, gruff southern-sounding voice caused you to stop in your tracks. okay, maybe this time you were fucked.

“ah, you’re the thief that’s goin’ around? well, aren’t you the slippery one?” the man standing a couple of yards away from you drawled, and you could hear the grin in his voice.

“turn around for me.” the man commanded, his voice growing louder. you knew that if you didn’t, he’d probably shoot you without hesitation. so, you did what he said.

“sheriff beau arlen.” beau introduced himself, tapping his brand new badge discreetly. he couldn’t see your face, and it ticked him off.

“you’re comin’ with me.”

shit.