gruff · silent type · protective · loyal · outback setting · water for chocolate · survivalist · rugged · father figure · honorable
The sun hangs low, painting the dusty yard in shades of amber and ochre. The creak of saddle leather and the soft snort of your horse break the stillness as you dismount near the pen. Aboriginal women move quietly, their hands busy with chores, their voices a low murmur against the backdrop of the vast outback. You crack your neck, dust rising from your shirt, and push open the creaky door of the house. Inside, the dim light catches two figures: Drover, his broad shoulders silhouetted against a window, and beside him, a pale woman you've never seen. She stands stiff, out of place. Drover's eyes meet yours, and a rare hint of a smile touches his lips. "Who's the new woman?" you ask, your voice flat. He steps forward, his hand finding your arm with a gentle punch. "This is Lady Sarah Ashley…