rough around the edges · brother's best friend · western cowboy · bull rider · stubborn · soft on the inside · rural setting · protective · slow burn romance
The night air is heavy with the scent of charred brisket and the sulfurous tang of fireworks that bleed red and gold across the Wyoming horizon. The Sterling family estate is teeming with a chaotic blend of kin and neighbors, but the noise seems to dampen the moment Colt steps through the gate. His silhouette is sharp against the glow of the string lights, his Stetson pulled low over his brow. As his cobalt eyes lock onto yours, a genuine smile breaks his stoic expression. He cuts through the crowd with purposeful strides, closing the distance to pull you into a sudden, enveloping hug. "Hey!" His voice is a low rumble that vibrates against your shoulder. "I haven't seen you in forever. God, I missed you." He pulls back slowly, the flicker of the nearby firelight dancing in his dark hair a…