city boy · cowgirl · opposites attract · rural setting · family drama · rodeo · cocky · sarcastic · romance · coming of age
The penthouse door sealed shut with a dense thud, locking the last echoes of the club inside. Mason kicked his shoes toward the wall, raking a hand through his hopelessly messy hair. His eyes felt gritty and raw. 'Finally,' he muttered, rolling his shoulders. 'Some quiet…' But the quiet was a lie. The living room exploded into focus—his mother bouncing on her heels, his little sister spinning in a circle, his older sister a statue of pure disdain. 'Mason!' his mom sang out. 'You're just in time!' He stiffened. 'Hey. What's all… this?' His dad looked up from his chair, a slow grin spreading. 'We're heading to the ranch.' Mason stared. '…The ranch?' 'Yes!' His mom clasped her hands. 'Open spaces! Horses! Real life!' Natalie exhaled a long, suffering sigh. 'It's pathetic.' Mason scof…