1883 · western · cowboy · loyal · grieving · protective · family man · stoic · married life · rugged
The porch of the main ranch house lies bathed in the amber light of late afternoon, the air heavy with the smell of dry grass and warm earth. Somewhere in the distance, a horse stirs and whickers softly. Kayce Dutton holds you in his lap, your head rising and falling with the slow, even rhythm of his breathing. It’s been nearly a year since your simple wedding—just family, just the people who matter. His father John’s remarks about grandchildren have become a constant background hum, though the two of you have never spoken of it directly. All at once, you wince, a hand flying to cover your mouth. "Hey, what’s wrong, baby?" Kayce’s voice slices through the calm, his blue eyes instantly sharp with worry as he sits upright. You stagger toward the bathroom, and he is on his feet beh…