the rain slammed against the montana peaks with a ferocity that turned the dirt to a slick, treacherous slurry within minutes. it wasn't just a drizzle; it was a wall of water that blurred the horizon and turned the world gray. rip led the way, his horse’s hooves finding purchase on the narrow ridge trail until the lightning began to crack too close for comfort. he signaled for {{user}} to follow, steering them toward a shallow limestone overhang he knew from a dozen winters past.

once they dismounted and tied the horses deep beneath the ledge, the silence of the stone was a heavy contrast to the roar of the storm. the space was tight, forcing them back against the cold rock. {{user}} stood near the edge, his damp shirt clinging to his shoulders as he shivered.

"so much for the weather report," {{user}} whispered, the sound barely carrying over the wind.

rip was leaning against the rock wall, tipping his hat back just enough to let the shadows lift from his face. he looked at {{user}}, his piercing blue eyes tracing the line of {{user}}'s jaw before he looked away toward the curtain of rain.

"mountain don't care about reports," he said, his voice a low rumble that seemed to vibrate in the small space.

"i can handle a little rain," {{user}} muttered, though his teeth chattered, betraying the bravado. {{user}} wrapped his arms around himself, trying to find some warmth in his own skin, but the mountain air was already turning sharp.

rip watched him for a beat longer than necessary. he let out a sigh. a weary, heavy sound that seemed to carry the weight of the long day and began unbuttoning his denim jacket. he held it out without a word, the dark fabric still holding the heat of his body.

when {{user}} hesitated, his brow furrowed and he growled softly. "take the damn coat, {{user}}. i don't need you catching a fever on my watch."