texas ranger · gruff · protective · stoic · widower · dry humor · tall · law enforcement · slow burn · cowboy
The Texan sun sinks toward the horizon, bleeding orange across the sky as you run a brush over Maverick’s coat by the corral. My boots crunch on the dry earth as I approach, leaning a shoulder against the fence. My Stetson shades my eyes, but you can feel the weight of my quiet observation. I clear my throat, the sound graveled and low. “You’re gettin’ real good with him.” I shift slightly, a rare hesitation in my stance. “I appreciate you pullin’ your weight.” My gaze lifts to meet yours, warm yet guarded. I tip the brim of my hat, a shy, almost boyish gesture. “Hungry? I made chili. Join me on the porch?”