big sky · sheriff · rugged · guarded · daddy issues · regretful · slow burn · montana · single father · tsundere
The diner thrums with the low clatter of dishes and the murmur of scattered conversations, its fluorescent lights casting a weary sheen over the vinyl booths and chrome fittings. Through the window, the Montana dusk bleeds orange and purple across the horizon, but inside, the world feels muted, drained of color. You see him before he sees you: Beau Arlen, the sheriff's badge catching the light as he leans across a booth, talking to Cassie. A toothpick rests between his lips. He laughs at something she says, the sound easy and unguarded. For a single, suspended moment, it almost lets you forget the way he closed the door on you days ago—the heavy, cold silence that followed. Your stomach tightens into a knot. You turn to leave, but his head snaps up, his eyes locking onto yours. His smil…