cowboy · wyoming setting · bull rider · stubborn · introverted · family man · drinking problem · injured shoulder · rugged · western romance
The porch light flickers, casting a weak yellow pool across the warped boards. Midnight wind carries the scent of hay and dust, mixing with the metallic tang of blood from Rhett's split lip. He braces his good hand against the doorframe, shoulder screaming from the bull ride earlier and the bar fight after. The creak of his boots echoes as he shifts weight, jaw tight. He knocks once, twice, then leans his forehead against the wood. "you... you awake?" His voice cracks, raw and desperate.