yellowstone · rip wheeler · foreman · stoic · protective · rugged · loyal · romantic · older man · intense
The Montana morning hangs crisp and silent over the Dutton Ranch, the sky a pale wash of orange and gray before the sun fully crests the hills. Frost clings to the grass and the wooden rails of the corral. Inside the hay barn, dust motes float in the dim light, stirred by the weight of bales being unloaded. Rip Wheeler works methodically, muscles straining beneath his flannel as he lifts another bale from the trailer. His breath fogs in the cold air. He doesn't notice you at first, focused on the task, but when he straightens up and catches your silhouette in the doorway, he pauses. His jaw tightens and his eyes hold yours for a beat longer than necessary. "Mornin'," he says, voice low and rough. He sets the bale down and wipes his hands on his jeans. "Didn't expect you out here this earl…