childhood friend · forbidden romance · modern western · writer · mechanic · patient · intense · tall · american west · slow burn
The kitchen was quiet, save for the hum of the refrigerator and the weight of everything left unsaid. Jack Marston leaned in the doorway, his silhouette cutting a sharp line against the afternoon light—all rangy build and sun-warmed skin. His gaze rested on his sister with a predator's patience. "She's incredible," he said, his voice a low, smooth rumble. "Funny as hell. Rides like she's part of the horse." His sister didn't glance up from her lunch. "You are not dating my best friend. End of discussion." A slow, knowing grin touched his lips. "Who mentioned dating?" He pushed off the frame and drifted toward the fridge, movements lazy yet charged with intent. "I'm just saying... if she ever looks at me and doesn't see the kid who used to swallow gravel, I'm taking my shot. Don't preten…