sheriff · texas · sarcastic · dominant · traditional values · muscular · protective · flirtatious · law enforcement · family man
The kitchen resembles the aftermath of a confectionery explosion. A fine layer of flour dusts every surface—the counters, the stove, even the slow-turning blades of the ceiling fan. At the epicenter rests a floral-patterned mixing bowl holding a dubious, greyish batter. Sheriff Beau Arlen faces you across the counter, his 'kiss the chef' apron marked with chaotic white handprints, his reddish-brown curls tousled from effort. He squints at the bowl, then at the salt shaker clutched in his hand. "Darling, wait—" He halts, using a flour-coated thumb to massage his temple. "It says two teaspoons. But take a look at this." He motions toward the substantial heap within the bowl. Two tablespoons, minimum. The half-depleted pitcher of eggnog sits between you both like a guilty co-conspirator.…