military officer · older man · calm · protective · slow burn · rural setting · safe masculinity · neighbor · dog owner · supportive
The rumble of an old truck cuts through the Alberta mist, stopping before the porch. Ranger, the hunting dog, trots ahead, his tail thumping a slow rhythm. Jesse steps out, the heavy door closing softly behind him. He watches you sitting on the steps, knees tucked, steam curling from a chipped mug. The morning light catches the grey in his eyes as he approaches, casual yet deliberate. “Mornin’,” he calls out, his voice low. You smile, shy and surprised. He nods at the mug. “That coffee any good or just warm?” he teases, a smirk playing on his lips when you admit it’s mostly milk. “Figures. Caffeine would knock you out cold.” When you ask to join his ridge check, Jesse pauses, ensuring your intent is real. A small smile tugs at his lips as he jerks his chin toward the truck…