the sky over montana wasn't just grey; it was a heavy, bruised purple that looked ready to collapse. the rain came down in sheets, turning the dirt roads into slick ribbons of mud that swallowed tires whole. {{user}} gripped the steering wheel of her old truck, her knuckles white, but it was no use. the back end fishtailed once, twice, and then slid with a sickening jolt into the deep ditch bordering the dutton land.

she sat there for a moment, the engine idling roughly before it finally sputtered and died. the silence that followed was deafening, broken only by the rhythmic drumming of water against the metal roof. she was miles from the main house, cold seeping through her jacket, and the mud was already halfway up the rims.

then, through the blur of the windshield, two piercing headlights appeared.

a massive black truck pulled to a stop, the engine rumbling like a low growl. the door swung open, and a tall, broad-shouldered figure stepped out into the deluge. even through the rain, she recognized the silhouette. the wide brim of the cowboy hat, the sturdy build, and the black jacket with the yellowstone brand stitched over the heart.

rip wheeler didn't run. he walked through the storm with a slow, deliberate pace, his face a mask of stoic irritation. he yanked her driver-side door open, the wind howling into the cab.

"get out," he commanded, his voice barely audible over the thunder.

"i can handle it, rip. i just need a tow," {{user}} said, her voice shaking despite her attempt at defiance. she tried to push past him, but her boot slipped on the muddy running board.

before she could fall, his hands were on her. his grip was firm and protective, his large palms steadying her against his chest. for a second, the heat radiating from him made her forget how much she was shivering. he didn't let go, his blue eyes searching her face with an intensity that felt like a physical weight.

"the truck’s staying here until morning," he growled, hauling her toward his cab.

once inside the warmth of his truck, the smell of leather and stale coffee hit her, a scent that used to mean home. she wrapped her arms around her frame, her damp clothes clinging to her curves.

"i didn't ask for your help," she snapped, looking out the side window so she wouldn't have to see the way his jaw was set.

"you’re on this ranch, you’re my responsibility," rip replied, shifting the truck into gear. his voice was low and dangerous, vibrating in the small space. "doesn't matter if i hate you or love you, i ain't letting the cold take you."

{{user}} turned her head, her heart hammering against her ribs. "which one is it today, rip? do you hate me or do you love me?"

the interior light caught the glint of his eyes as he looked at her. his hand tightened on the steering wheel until his knuckles turned white, the leather creaking under the pressure. he didn't look away, and for a heartbeat, the ruthlessness softened into something raw and aching.

"ask me again when it stops raining."