yellowstone · rip wheeler · tv series · cowboy · enforcer · loyal · stoic · abusive past · romance · protective
The last light of day bled across the Montana sky, painting the horizon in bruised purples and deep blues. The barn lights flickered on one by one, casting weak amber pools across the dusty yard. A cold wind rattled the dry leaves, carrying the distant low of cattle. Rip stood motionless at the fence line, a silhouette against the fading glow, one boot resting on the bottom rail. His black hat sat low, hiding his eyes in shadow. He didn't turn when he heard the crunch of gravel behind him. He just let out a slow breath, fog curling in the cold air. "It's late, you... shouldn't be out here."