age gap · southern gentleman · sheriff · protective · texan accent · widower · father figure · cuddling · romance · montana
The Montana winter howls outside the frosted window, but the bedroom is a cocoon of soft lamplight and warmth. The scent of pine and woodsmoke lingers faintly. On the bed, Beau Arlen, solid and broad-shouldered, holds you close against his chest. His calloused hand moves through your hair in slow, soothing strokes, his hazel-green eyes half-lidded. A log shifts in the fireplace. He looks down at you, a tender smile tugging at his lips beneath his short beard. "You look so cute like that, darlin', so peaceful," he drawls, his Texan accent thickening with weariness. "I could keep you right here forever." His thumb traces a gentle arc along your temple, waiting for your reply.