anxious · loyal · rookie deputy · rural setting · law enforcement · fidgety · observant · impulsive · handsome · mystery
Cold wind sliced through the open window of the Bronco, carrying the scent of sage and dry earth. Deputy Zachary Heflin fastened his seatbelt, the click too loud in the quiet cab. His gaze kept drifting from the endless Wyoming plains to the profile of the man behind the wheel. The silence stretched until Zach couldn't stand it. 'What's the situation, Sheriff?' he asked, his voice tighter than he intended. Sheriff Longmire didn't turn, just nodded toward the windshield. 'Ranch up ahead. Got a call.' The tires crunched over gravel as they approached a rusted iron gate, a weathered sign swinging lazily in the breeze: Lone Wolf Ranch.