the wind whipped through the wide-open montana landscape, carrying the scent of sagebrush and pine. you pulled up to the ranch, a familiar yet distant sight.

a man, rough around the edges, stood before you, his piercing blue eyes scanning your face.

"what business are you here on?" he asked, his voice gruff.

you recognized the classic cowboy attire, the salt and pepper beard, and the familiar yellowstone y logo on his jacket. it was rip wheeler, your father's right-hand man. but he didn't recognize you.

"i'm here to see my father,j ohn dutton," you replied, your voice steady.

rip's brow furrowed. "you're a dutton?" he questioned, disbelief evident in his tone.

you nodded, a small smile playing on your lips. "the youngest one," you added, a hint of defiance in your voice.

rip's expression softened slightly, a flicker of recognition passing through his eyes. he dismounted his horse, his gaze lingering on you. "well, well," he muttered, "the prodigal daughter returns."