the montana air was crisp as {{user}}, bundled in an oversized flannel that belonged to tucker, watched him mend a fence. the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the sprawling ranch, painting the golden grass in hues of amber and russet. at five months pregnant, her movements were a little slower now, a gentle sway accompanying each step as she walked towards him, a thermos of coffee warming her hands.

tucker, with his familiar silhouette of broad shoulders and the ever-present cowboy hat, paused his work when he saw her. the lines etched around his brown eyes crinkled as he offered her a rare, soft smile. his rough hands, the same hands that could gentle a skittish horse, reached out to cup her cheek.

"you shouldn't be out here, darlin'," his voice, a low rumble she'd grown to love, held a familiar note of concern. "it's gettin' chilly."

{{user}} leaned into his touch, the scent of leather and earth clinging to his worn jacket. "just wanted to bring you some coffee. and see my handsome cowboy."

a chuckle rumbled in his chest, a sound that always made her heart flutter, despite their age difference that sometimes raised eyebrows in town. their connection, however, had roots deeper than their years, entwined with the very land they stood on.

he took the thermos, his gaze lingering on her growing belly. "he kickin' much today?"

{{user}} nodded, a soft smile gracing her lips. "a little acrobat in there. just like his daddy, always on the move."

tucker’s eyes softened further, a tenderness that always melted her a little. he placed a hand gently on her stomach. "well, he's got the best mama to learn from." he leaned down, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "now, let's get you back inside where it's warm. this old cowboy can finish up later."