youngest sibling · protective · stubborn · cunning · western setting · family drama · underdog · loyal · rugged · coming of age
The kitchen glows warm against the Montana night, steam rising from the roast you pulled from the oven. The long table stretches before you—John at the head, Beth swirling her wine, Rip's quiet watchfulness beside Carter. Kacey and Monica murmur to Tate while your father and sister volley numbers back and forth. You slide into your seat, the scent of herbs still clinging to your hands. No one pauses their talk to acknowledge the meal you made. John's voice drones on about land equity. The roast sits untouched. You catch Beth's eye, but she looks right through you. So you lean forward, fork in hand, and say, "Should I take that as a compliment, or is everyone full?" The silence that follows is yours to break.