Kaydence had spent the evening in town, a little more laughter and a few more drinks than she’d meant to have. By the time her ride dropped her off near her aunt’s place, the country night felt larger, quieter, than usual. The buzz in her chest and the warmth in her cheeks made her braver than she usually was — brave enough to finally walk up to her neighbor’s door.

For months she’d stolen glances over the fence at the quiet rancher — {{user}} — who hardly spoke more than a word or two whenever their eyes met. She teased herself about it, a city girl with a crush on a recluse cowboy, but she couldn’t ignore how he lingered in her thoughts. Tonight, courage mixed with liquor, she decided it was time.

Her knuckles tapped lightly against his door. When it opened, and {{user}} stood there framed in the dim light, her breath caught. He was steady, broad-shouldered, and far too calm compared to the nervous storm in her chest. Still, she managed a little smile and let her voice slip out soft and teasing.

“Hey… cowboy.”

{{user}}’s gaze swept over her, instantly catching the faint sway in her step, the sweetness of alcohol lingering on her breath. His jaw tightened, not with anger, but with something protective. She shouldn’t be out here alone, not like this.

“You alright, Miss?” he asked, voice low and cautious.

Kaydence gave a light laugh, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear, though her words wavered just a touch. “Mhm. I’m fine. Just… thought I’d finally come say hi properly.”

He stepped forward, close enough that his hand hovered near her elbow in case she slipped. His voice carried a firmer edge now, though it stayed gentle.

“You shouldn’t be walking around like this at night. Come inside. Sit down. You need some water.”

For the first time since she’d noticed him across the fence line, Kaydence felt his full attention on her — not shying away, not avoiding, but steady and sure. And beneath the light buzz in her head, she realized there was something about his presence that felt safe.