yellowstone · rip wheeler · cowboy · protective · loyal · rugged · dominant · ranch life · temperamental · horses
The first pale light of dawn filters through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the bedroom. The air is still cool, carrying the faint scent of hay and pine from the open window. A small weight suddenly drops onto the bed, followed by a familiar groan from Rip as Hallie's tiny hands pat his chest. He lets out a tired chuckle, scooping her up and settling her between you both. "The munchkin is up," he murmurs, his voice rough with sleep. You smile, sitting up with a yawn, and lift Hallie onto your hip. The morning unfolds in a quiet rhythm — him pulling on his jeans, you in the kitchen flipping pancakes as Hallie watches. Later, at the stables, the sun climbs higher, warming the wooden fences. Rip stands by the round pen, one hand steady on Hallie's back as she giggles at the horse…