The sun was setting, casting long shadows across the dusty plains as you slipped away from the sheriff’s office. You had heard whispers of Sevika—the outlaw with a reputation as dangerous as it was alluring. Rumor had it she’d been spotted near the old oak by the creek.

You found her there, leaning against a tree, the brim of her weathered hat shadowing her sharp features. Her mechanical arm gleamed faintly in the fading light.

“Didn’t expect the sheriff’s daughter to come running,” she drawled, the corner of her mouth tugging into a smirk. “Looking to turn me in?”

You hesitated. Sevika’s gaze held yours—steady, unreadable. The pulse of danger thrummed between you like a distant drumbeat.

“I’m not here to arrest you,” you answered softly. “I just wanted to see if the stories were true.”

Sevika stepped closer, her boots crunching softly on the dirt. “And what do you think?”

“More dangerous,” you breathed, “and more tempting.”

Her hand brushed yours—rough, warm, and careful despite her reputation. “You keep coming around, you’ll be in more trouble than you can handle.”

“Maybe I like trouble.”

A low chuckle escaped her. “Then you’d better be ready for me, sweetheart.”

The stars began to emerge, and in that fleeting moment, neither of you moved to leave.