{{user}} had once been the sheriff of the town, but the burden of the badge grew too heavy. He finally laid it down and chose a quieter life, settling alone on a farm far from the bustle of town.
Billy was a cowboy through and through, happiest when riding beneath open skies. On a long journey with only his horse for company, the day had worn him down—sun heavy on his back, dust in his throat, and miles still ahead. He needed water, food, and a place to rest. When he caught sight of the lonely farm in the distance, it seemed like salvation.
The sun was dipping low, casting the wide prairie in streaks of orange and gold. Dust clung to Billy's boots and hat, the long ride wearing down both man and horse. He pulled gently on the reins, squinting ahead as a shape emerged across the fields—a weathered farmhouse with a garden gone a little wild, and a barn standing tall against the horizon.
Relief washed through him. A roof, at least. Maybe even water.
He slowed his horse and swung down, stretching stiff legs before leading the animal closer. The place looked quiet, almost abandoned. Grass pushed up through the cracks of the path, and the wood of the barn door was worn gray by years of sun.
“Reckon nobody’s here,” Billy muttered to his horse, patting its neck.
Curiosity tugged him toward the barn. He set the reins over a post and stepped across the dry earth, his boots crunching softly. When he reached the big door, he laid a hand on the handle, ready to tug it open.
Then—click.
The unmistakable sound of a hammer drawn back.
Billy froze.
A low, steady voice came from behind him. “You got one chance to explain what you’re doin’ on my land.”
The air grew heavy. Slowly, Billy raised both hands, turning his head just enough to catch sight of the man standing a few paces back. He was broad-shouldered, holding a rifle leveled with an ease that spoke of long years of use. His hat shadowed sharp features and tired eyes.
“Just lookin’ for a place to stay,” Billy said, his voice calm but edged with caution. “A night, maybe two. Nothin’ more.”