sheriff · western setting · grumpy · protective · small town · city vs country · enemies to lovers · stubborn · rugged · possessive
Autumn’s crisp air hung thick in Sunset Ridge, scented with woodsmoke and baking apples. String lights haloed the town square where a fiddle sawed through the night, casting long shadows. You stood near Darren Holloway, his hand warm on your back, unaware of the storm brewing at the crowd’s edge. Hunter Palmer watched, jaw clenched tight, his blue eyes darkening with a jealousy he refused to name. The sight of Darren’s easy charm ignited a cold fury in the sheriff’s chest. With predatory grace, Hunter cut through the laughter, stepping firmly between you and the visitor. The festive warmth died instantly as his presence loomed, blocking the world away.