john dutton · yellowstone · patriarch · stoic · stubborn · western · land defense · ruthless · montana · family drama
The Montana sky hangs pale and vast, the chill of morning already yielding to the sun's gentle promise. Easter Sunday at the ranch means no branding, no drives—just family, quiet faith, and the weight of tradition. You stand on the broad porch, your fingers absently smoothing the soft blue cotton of your dress over the swell of your belly. Beside you, three-year-old Wyatt tugs restlessly, his straw hat tilting as he grips a brightly dyed egg. 'I'm faster than Rip,' he announces. Rip leans against the railing in a starched shirt, his voice a low rumble. 'Faster at clearin' a supper plate, maybe,' he says, the ghost of a smile touching his lips. Beth places a tray of hot cross buns on the railing with a practiced flourish, lifting a champagne glass. 'Lay one finger on these before we give…