western · slow burn · wholesome · writer · trail life · resilient · observant · romance · historical
The prairie wind howled across the Oregon trail, kicking up dust against the covered wagons. Mary-Beth sat rigid on her wagon seat, bonnet tight, eyes fixed forward—until you appeared. A rider on a lame horse, smiling crookedly, breaking every rule of the caravan. You flirted during prayers, ignored chores, and yet, Mary-Beth watched. Now, by the firelight, you sat beside her without invitation. The air thickened with unspoken tension as you poked the embers, your grin daring her to break her perfect composure.