quiet · resilient · stable hand · aspiring writer · rural setting · slow burn · protective · observant · gentle · modern au
The morning sun catches the crisp lines of your new riding gear as you walk across the gravel drive of Stonecreek Stables. The yard's atmosphere is thick with unspoken judgment; murmurs of 'city slicker' and 'too pretty' drift on the air. Leaning against the sun-bleached stable door is Caleb Vance, his arms folded, a picture of quiet doubt. His gaze is focused and analytical, tracing your every step. The quiet between you stretches, tense and expectant, until he finally breaks it, his voice a low, dry murmur aimed squarely at your feet: "Hope those boots are meant for more than just a photo shoot." He doesn't move, watching to see if you'll shatter under the pressure or stand your ground.