#Kayce x reader

[captain039]

Blood, Fur and Magic

Vampire Viktor x reader x Werewolf Jayce

Warnings: Vampire things, werewolf things, light swearing, possessiveness, smut, sexual, intimacy, poly relationship, angst, violence

I saw somewhere about Viktor being vampire coded and Jayce being werewolf coded and now I just wanna be that sandwich

I’m also sorry if it’s confusing xD

Theres a ringing in your ears, a pain in your leg and your whole body, the ground was closer than you remember. You cough your lungs engulfing dust and rubble. What happened? You remember clash shattering and an explosion, you had only just walked into the council room when it went off. There’s someone shaking your shoulder, someone yelling, you know that voice, Mel? You blink your eyes open seeing her knelt beside you shaking you. There’s relief in her face when you open your eyes and she sits you up as cough again and your hearing slowly returns. You focus on the ruin of the council room, everyone’s dead-

“Hey, can you hear me?” Mel cups your cheeks a moment gently tapping them before clicking her fingers by your ears.

“Yeah- I can” you move her hands and she sighs in relief.

“What happened?” You manage as she goes to help you up, you cry in pain though and look down to your leg, you almost pass out at the sight quickly covering your eyes and whimpering.

“Don’t look” Mel quickly covers it with your jacket and ties your leg off making you cry again.

“VIKTOR!” theres a yell in the council room, Mel quickly looks and you urge her to go. You see Jayce stand and leg it to a pile of rubble. You struggle to get up so you opt for dragging yourself on the floor. Thats when you see them both in view, Jayce over Viktor’s unconscious body, tearing off his shirt performing CPR. Your mind slows and reels at the scene, everything feels in slow motion Jayce’s body moving quickly trying to revive Viktor before he’s lifting him and running. Mel returns to your side quickly as guards begin to rush in.

“Mel-“ you feel tears down your face watching Jayce run with Viktor in his arms.

“They’ll be alright” she says but there’s no real truth in her words as you let out a broken cry. You weren’t ready to say goodbye, you weren’t ready to see his sweet face leave. You’re lifted to the medical wing your leg broken the bone sticking out. You pass out along the way world dimming in pain and darkness.

The next time you wake you focus on your surroundings, a hospital room, you feel the pain in your leg numbed and your mind comes back. Viktor, Jayce- you need to see them now. You curse the cast on your leg and stumble out of the hospital room. You lean against the wall and hobble painfully to the receptionist.

“Miss-!” She says shocked but you don’t care, your teeth are gritted and you lean heavily against the counter.

“Jayce Talis, Viktor where are they?” You say and she fumbles a bit.

“Now! Please!” You beg. Someone escorts you to a private room, you have crutches as support as you walk to Viktor’s room. You stand outside it a moment before knocking softly you hear shuffling movement before Jayce opens the door.

“Please I said-“ he stops as he sees you, eyes wide he says your name softly before he hugs you tightly. You feel tears roll down your face as you let the crutches go and hug him back.

“How’s the leg?” He asks pulling back keeping you steady.

“Doesn’t matter” you say seeing Viktor on the bed. There’s a bunch of tubes in him, he has a breathing machine attached to him the sight makes your stomach coil.

“Jayce” you whisper with tears in your eyes, he helps you inside and closes the door, you walk over to where Viktor lays, too still, too pale, it’s worse than the last time you saw him in here. You can’t control your emotions as tears roll down your face and you almost collapse. Jayce is quick to settle you on a chair nearby hushing you gently.

“I’m not ready” you sob and Jayce takes in a shaky breath his emotions clear too.

“I know, I know I’m not either” he says his tears falling as well.

There’s no improvement, Viktor lays in a state of a death like sleep. You nor Jayce leave his room often, you both not wanting to say goodbye. Many times you’ve both yelled at the doctors when they said it may be time to let him go. You were never one to show your emotions so easily but this? This turned a switch.

It’s around midnight you think, time doesn’t matter in this room anymore. You’re curled up on the bed Jayce had brought in your broken leg stretched out. It’s been two months now, with the severity of the break yourself still going to have this cast on for months. It doesn’t matter though, you’re alive and Viktor is lying on that bed in a shut down body. You don’t know who goes first, you or Jayce on a tandem of finding a cure, like anyone could possibly cure death. Viktor’s right limbs are changed by the Arcane, a strange purple, grey colour. After Jayce saw what it had done he destroyed it, that fracture in there friendship never healed properly, neither apologised fully and now Jayce didn’t have a chance too. You’ve got books, notes and crumble papers everywhere in the lab, you don’t remember when you started being this invested in fixing things. You lean against the table, head on your arms as you feel yourself drift off to sleep.

You dream of woods, ones you’ve never seen, you’re running your legs are burning, heart pounding but you need to get away. There’s something behind you chasing you, howling in the background. You slam into something though the air knocked out of you, you look up seeing a hooded figure. Images flash into your mind, fangs, blood, fur, canines, it’s too much flickering.

“Change is the only way” the voice is eerie, one you don’t know before the figure is gone, the howl closer than before and rustling in the underbrush before it launches

You scream awake shooting up, you pant and grasp the table in front of you. Your heart pounds and you’re covered in sweat. You jolt when the door opens almost jumping off the chair.

“Hey” Jayce mutters as he walks in the lab. You look at him frowning, his hairs a little longer his beard has grown slightly, he’s got bags under his eyes though, his face a little sunken in.

“What’s wrong?” He asks as images flick in your mind. Canines, brown fur, golden eyes. You wince and hold your head, Jayce comes closer his hand on your shoulder gently. You feel claws in your skin though and yell in pain stumbling away. It ends up with you on the floor and a worried Jayce in front of you with his hands up. You stare at his hands, they’re normal, no sharp claws. You look to your shoulder and nothing. You feel overwhelmed, tears in your eyes as you apologise. Jayce soothes you instantly coming down to kneel by you, holding you close. You don’t feel any claws this time, just his warmth.

“We both need rest” he says helping you off the floor careful of your casted leg. You sigh but nod and follow him out of the lab on your crutches. Your apartments been forgotten over the last two months, Jayce’s is closer to the hospital so you stay there instead in his spare room. You fall onto your bed, sort of, careful not to jolt your leg as you sigh and close your eyes again.

You dream of the woods again, but there’s another chasing you, they’re faster, quieter moving in the shadows. It’s dark, the full moon high above you, you run till you can’t, till you collapse on the floor with your lungs bursting for air. You feel it before you see it, the creep of coldness on your skin the prickle on fear on the back of your neck.

“You’ll taste so sweet” it whispers and you know that voice. There’s a figure over you pinning you to ground before two cold small shards pierce your neck. You faintly hear a low growl behind you and listen to the laugh the figure on top of you lets out.

“Jayce” he chuckles and you know who it is, Viktor, his hairs longer, his body fuller his eyes a swirl of colours. You follow his gaze and you see the beast, hunched over golden eyes staring at you and him both. A wolf like body, hunched over tail swishing behind.

“He’s possessive” Viktor leans down and whispers in your ear teasingly his tongue sliding across your neck.

“Why’re you surprised to see me?” He sits up again his body still straddling yours.

“You’re dead” you whisper.

“Dead? Hardly, my heart may not beat but I’ve not felt this alive in years” he grins and you see two pointed fangs. Another growl leaves the beast and Viktor laughs again.

“Come my love” he lifts a hand and reaches out for the beast. It walks over on all fours nuzzling its head into Viktor palm.

“You don’t recognise him?” Viktor asks looking to you. You frown at them both and listen to the low whine the wolf like beast lets out. You stare at its eyes, golden- Golden like Jayce’s.

“Jayce” you whisper in shock and Viktor chuckles softly a smile on his lips as he pets the wolf head.

“Wake now sweet thing” Viktor whispers before you jolt upward surrounded by the faint glow of the sun and Jayce’s spare room.

Next part ->

[ivy09]

I hate when I’m specifically looking for fluff and the only thing that pops up is smut

[bullet-prooflove]

Could I request Yellowstone boys looking after a drink significant other please?x

Ryan is probably the one that got you in trouble in the first place and he assumes complete for responsibility for that. He's the one giving you a piggy back if your feet hurt or carrying you from the truck to the house because you took your shoes off in the car. You always get a little frisky and Ryan's always a gentleman, kissing your fingertips and telling you tomorrow, when your sober. He tucks you into bed, kisses your forehead before collecting your shoes and any miscellaneous items of clothing you’ve slung around and making sure they’re in a place you can find them.

Travis thinks you’re fucking adorable when you’re drunk. It doesn’t happen often but when it does he’s there for it. You always get super affectionate, flirty and silly and he loves it. Gives you entire attention even if you are chatting shit. Travis is very protective and keeps an eye on you, not because he doesn’t trust you but because he’s spent years on the rodeo circuit and he knows assholes, hell he’s been that asshole. Anyone shows to much of an interest, he’s literally getting between the two of you and telling that fella you’re taken and to fuck off.

When the two of you get home, he helps you get into one of his t-shirts and climbs into bed alongside you. You spend the night curled up against him as his fingers comb through your hair.

Rip’s experience of drunks before you was Beth. You are far more easy to handle. You’re a lot more controlled and don’t go completely off the rails. When Rip is picking you up, he always requests that you stay inside the bar because he hates the thought of you being out in the cold, and he also knows that bad things happen to woman in dark parking lots.

When he steps inside he usually watches you for a minute. If your dancing, he’s coming over to join you before he takes you home, if a guy’s anywhere near you he’s stepping in to protect his territory. He has no chill when it comes to you.

When he gets you in the truck, he has the music low because he knows you like to sing a long and the heating on because it gets cold. He asks you about your night, if you had fun.

In the house he makes you drink some water, give you a snack and tucks you into bed before making sure the house is completely locked up and joining you.

Walker thinks you're the cutest thing. The two of you dance and sing together in the parking lot, he doesn't give a shit who sees, he just likes having you in his arms. Let's you wear his hat because he thinks you look adorable in it.

The dancing continues at home and ends up with the two of you falling you asleep on the couch together, Walker singing you to sleep.

Kayce is all smiles when he comes to pick you up especially if it looks like you’re having a lot of fun. He drapes one arm around your shoulders and kisses your temple.

“Oh hey darlin, you ready to go…” type of thing.  

Keeps you tucked into his side in the parking a lot, it’s a territorial thing he doesn’t even realise he does, a way of keeping you safe. You usually fall asleep in the truck in the way home. He tucks his jacket around you for the journey, checking on you as he drives. He hates waking you up so he carries you into the house and puts you to bed, leaving a glass of water on the night stand.

Jamie loves to see you have fun, he’s addicted to your smile, your happiness. When he comes to the bar, he sticks around a while, watching you dance and laugh. He discreetly pays your bar tab before cutting in for a dance. Jamie just loves around you, so one dance turns into three more.

When he does get you home he’s very sweet and tender as he undresses you. Lingering teasing kisses as he helps you into your pyjamas. When he climbs into bed a long side you, the two of you stay up laughing while you tell him about your night. You fall asleep, draped across him, mid-sentence and Jamie just hugs you close.

[jetblack4realz]

his little girl - yellowstone boys

how the yellowstone (+ 1923) boys react to you having their daughter

i think i might make this a series if y'all are interested. i think it'd be cute! i'll do kayce (obvs), rip (ofc), ryan (what a man), lee (we didn't get enough of him), jimmy (i haven't seen a single thing on here for him, not that there isn't but still), and spencer (he's iconic)!!

lmk if you want anything in particular for any or all of these guys! i think it could be fun :)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

kayce dutton:

when you first got pregnant, you were so certain it was going to be a little boy, and that's what you told kayce. he smiled over at you, hand on your stomach as he shook his head.

"and why's that, baby?" he wondered.

"he's been kicking like a boy, and i've got the skin to show it's a boy. i've always imagined that i'd be a boy mom," you answered with a shrug, leaning into his embrace comfortably. "and we've already got tate. i think it'll be another boy."

and he'd been alright with that. he let you have your dreams of what to name him and how you'd have him and tate match in little cowboy outfits. you even omitted the gender reveal in favor of it being a surprise, but also because you were so certain it was a boy.

but, when that little girl came out, you both were in instant happy tears.

kayce held her first due to some complications during birth, and he suddenly remembered the joy that came with being a father. as he stared down at his baby girl with eyes that matched his, he was flooded with a certain protectiveness that didn't come with tate. this was his little girl - nobody was going to mess with her.

to say she was spoiled by her daddy was an understatement. there wasn't a day that he didn't come home with a new handful of wildflowers, one for each of his girls, and sit on the floor having her explain all her little drawings to him. when tate would mess with her, teasing as a good older brother would, kayce would give him a stern shake of his head, holding her close to his chest as she sniffled.

"she ain't a boy, bud," he told him. "i know she's your sister and you wanna tease her, but you gotta treat her like a lady."

"i just wanna make her laugh," tate defended.

"find another way, okay pal? there's a million ways to make her laugh and only a few to make her cry. let's figure that out, alright?" he said, pulling the boy into his side for a hug. tate looked at his sister, thinking for a moment before making a funny face, sticking out his tongue and crossing his eyes as he pulled his mouth at a funny angle. she burst into a fit of giggles, kayce high-fiving him as she clambered out of his lap to go play with her older brother.

you had to be the one to teach her to rope and ride, ensuring she had the true makings of a cowgirl because kayce did not want that life for her. he hoped that she wouldn't ever end up with a cowboy. but, once she knew how to ride well enough, he'd take her on long rides with him and tate, explaining the beauties of montana to them both.

he first bought her a dress from a little boutique in town and a matching bow to go with it when she was five, beyond excited to dress her in it and take her out on a daddy daughter date. you took tate on a mommy son date that same night, smiling as you saw your husband and daughter eating ice cream through the store window as tate dragged you to the theater down the street.

kayce stayed protective, but supportive of what she wanted - except for when she started getting cutesy around the newest ranch hand rip had let stick around, a kid called carter. kayce nipped that one in the bud real fast.

he thrived as a father, it was his true calling, with both tate and your little girl. having both felt like his life had equalled out and he ensured they had a close bond as well. kayce isn't a girl dad or a boy dad, he's just a dad, and he loves it.

rip wheeler:

rip would never admit it, but whenever he imagined finding a girl, settling down, and starting a family, it was always filled with daughters. it was easy to assume that he'd want all boys - he was one of the most manly men montana had ever seen. but, with that, he felt a need to have girls to protect, to be strong for.

so when that first baby ended up a girl, he was silently ecstatic.

"baby, it's a girl," he mumbled to you, his smile the widest you'd seen it since your wedding day.

he was so supportive during labor, petting your hair out of your face as you squeezed his hand tightly. when your little girl finally started crying, he took her straight from the doctor and set her on your chest, one hand on your arm and the other on the baby's back.

he watched over the both of y'all carefully. it was obvious to everyone that you were his number one priorities, and if anyone so much as mentioned your names with the wrong tone he was ready to fight.

rip started taking her out on rides as soon as she was able to be strapped to his chest and sit on a horse without crying, which was actually awfully early. you told him it was only because she was his daughter that he was able to do this, but they both loved it. she was an expert rider by the time she was eight years old, and a good roper too.

you had two twin girls after her, both absolutely adored by rip and their older sister. you were able to go on family rides at that point, you and rip with each one of the littles in front of you and your oldest perched behind rip with wide wondering eyes.

"daddy, an eagle!" she cheered, pointing over his shoulder at a bald eagle flying over the trees.

"good eye, baby," rip said, smiling as he high-fived the little girl.

she quickly became his right hand man. even at four years old, she was grabbing him a banana for breakfast before he headed out the door or helping him clean his boots. the older she got, the more responsibility she got, which was fine by her. she was strong and determined and a total daddy's girl.

until she became a brother's girl.

carter showed up when she was seven and she fell in love with him quickly. he was sweet with her, carrying her on his back out to the barn as she helped him shovel stalls the best she could.

rip didn't know how to feel about it until you finally approached him about adopting carter.

"it wouldn't be anything official since neither of y'all have any documentation or anything," you told him, fiddling with your fingers. "but, that boy needs a home. and rip, i really love him, and so does she, and so do you. we've got one extra room and a place at the table. i want him here. you've seen him with our baby girl, he wants to be a part of this family too. please, rip."

and so that was that. after you sat the boy down and told him, he became even more dependable. he was an avid protector of your daughter and rip actually began smiling at the sight of the two of them walking around the ranch.

rip didn't love carter the same way he loved his baby girl, he was always meant to be a girl dad, but he appreciated him nonetheless. the way he was with rip's daughters helped secure him in the little wheeler family, and rip was happy about it.

ryan:

ryan was in no way prepared to be a father. when you told him you were pregnant he about shat himself.

"but we used protection," he said, eyes wide as he paced the bunkhouse.

"well, quite obviously it didn't work," you said. you grabbed his arms. "ryan, hun, it'll be okay. okay? it'll all work out, we'll figure it out."

"i don't have anything for you. i can't do anything for you. i don't have a house for myself, i barely have my own truck, i make enough to live but i don't know how to provide for you," he stressed.

"we'll figure it out," you emphasized again, wrapping your arms around his neck tightly.

and you did. with how long ryan had been working on the yellowstone ranch and how close your family was to the duttons (how you'd met ryan, actually), john gave you space in the main house to take care of you new little girl - heavens knew there was enough room, he barely even noticed you were there. he, himself, was kind of obsessed with the idea of having another pseudo grandchild, and ryan was convinced that was the only reason he worked it all out for y'all.

ryan was a nervous father. he was uber careful, keeping constant eyes on the baby or whoever was holding her. ninety percent of the time, that person was himself. he barely even let colby hold her and he cursed out jimmy when he asked, saying how he wasn't about to let that dumbass, brain-injured, bronco-riding klutz of a rodeo star hold his precious baby girl and drop her on her head just like his parents had done to him, obviously.

everyone had a good laugh about that one.

your little girl wasn't around the horses or cows, or even a damn rope for so much of her life, but what she was around was poker. ryan had her in his lap as they played cards since she was a month old and not sleeping through the night. somehow, impeccably, she went down without a fuss after sitting through a few games of cards with her father and his friends.

when she got a bit older, he taught her all his favorite childhood card games, but she got bored of them. when you first walked in on him explaining poker to her, you about smacked him upside the head, but when you saw her smiling and figuring out the order of the cards you let it slide.

"she'll be cheatin' out the rest of us in no time," ryan said, running a hand over her hair as he smiled up at you.

"whatever you say, cowboy," you sighed, sitting next to her and picking at the chips he'd laid out for her.

for her tenth birthday, he threw her a poker party with the rest of the wranglers, the duttons, tate, and carter, with ibc rootbeers in a cooler to make her feel just as cool as the rest of them. it was the first time she'd played with anyone but her parents, and she was stoked.

she smoked their asses.

they were freaking flabbergasted, even ryan. he pressed a kiss to her head, laughing as he congratulated her. "that's my kid, everybody."

lee dutton:

lee never wanted kids.

he knew it, you knew it, john knew it, hell, the whole family knew it. it was never in his plan.

but, you also weren't in his plan. he'd had a perfectly organized idea of being the forever bachelor of the yellowstone, hitting up bars for quick girls when he wanted a makeout or one night stand or whatever, and then returning to life on the ranch.

well, you showed up, a horse trainer from the sixes, travis wheatley's little sister, and he fell in love so fast he almost tripped over his feet. he rushed into dating you, proposing, and marrying you but no one in montana had any complaints, except for maybe your father, but he was in texas so it didn't matter in the long run. and he also, accidentally, rushed into getting you pregnant, which was not the goal at all.

"i know, and i'm sorry, but i'm keeping it, baby," you'd told him the night he found the test. you held his face in your hands, brows furrowed. "i want this. i hope you can understand that."

"i never wanted kids," he told you, shaking his head and breathing out a deep sigh. "but, uh, with you? with you, i'm not so opposed." he looked up at you, mustering a small, almost scared smile. "hell, we're already here, ain't we? let's fuckin do this thing, baby."

"language, lee," you laughed.

his mind was blown when you gave birth, absolutely scared and amazed out of his mind when the nurse handed over this perfect, slightly messy, bundle of pink blankets screaming bloody murder to him as they cleaned you up.

"holy shit," he muttered, staring down at his daughter with wide eyes.

"language, lee," you groaned, sitting up and reaching out for the baby. he handed her to you immediately, watching the both of you carefully.

his world changed that day.

as soon as you were ready to let her out of the house, he took her everywhere with him, and he was not ashamed about it. the strap-on baby carrier was his best friend as he walked around the house, grabbing her nursing bottles before heading out to the barn. john laughed when he saw him the first time.

"and what the hell are you doing? you can't cowboy with a baby, lee," he told his eldest.

"watch me," was his answer.

you didn't know he was doing all this, only being told that he'd take her out while you got some rest or did whatever you needed to get done. it was nice to have little breaks throughout the day, but you worried if she was hungry. well, until you saw the little bottle holster he'd made himself that he kept strapped to his side.

you almost thought it was ridiculous, but it was the best possible outcome you could've hoped for, so you let him take her out every few days.

that girl was practically a cowboy by the time she was five years old. she knew all the terms, had her own boots, was dressed in the same wranglers and carhartts as her dad and grandpa, and always was begging for a horse. she wasn't allowed quite yet, but lee promised her she'd get one eventually.

he took her out hunting with him basically her whole life, teaching her the sacredness and also the practicality of it. she became obsessed with guns when she was eight, something you became especially worried about. you made him put extra locks on each case and then on the safe, the fear of her getting into them eating you alive. she complained about not being able to get a tag until she was twelve, but you thanked the state for it.

lee, of course, found a workaround where she began shooting bucks as big as the bed of his truck when she was only ten because it was on the dutton property - who was going to know? if she could love him anymore than she already did, she definitely did after that.

you kept it to the one kid, knowing she was all lee could really handle. and you were both happy to have her be the center of your worlds. and as much as some traditional montanans might argue that dutton ranch's succession should be male, anyone who met your daughter knew that that little ten year old was as much a cowboy as anyone on the ranch, following in the large footsteps of her grandpa and father with exactness.

jimmy:

jimmy was ecstatic when he learned you were pregnant, as nervous as it made him too. everything in his life was starting to work out; he'd figured out his dream job - to be a horse trainer, he had a good job, y'all had just gotten married, and he bought his first house right by the sixes.

"this is perfect," he told you, kissing your forehead as he smile widely. "everything is so perfect now, darlin'."

when you learned it was a girl that day at the doctor's office, he was even more ecstatic.

"our little cowgirl," you told him as he pulled you into his side.

"our little cowgirl," he nodded, a certain proud smile on his lips as he thought about what it'd be like raising a little cowgirl as a real cowboy now himself.

now that he had money, and good money too, he let himself go out and buy the baby all sorts of things, from cow printed blankets to little stuffed horses. you laughed when he came home one day with tiny little baby boots.

he put them on her as soon as she'd grown enough to give him the chance. he held her hands as he walked her around the room, the small girl bouncing a bit as she situated in her boots.

"i know they're kinda funny, hun," he hummed to her as she walked with him. "but, they're actually the best sort of shoe. you're gonna love 'em."

his favorite part of the day had always been coming home to you, but it was even better now that he had two people to come home to. and she loved her daddy, babbling with that big baby smile as she crawled to him. he'd always scoop her up into his arms and give her a big kiss on the cheek before walking through the rest of the house to find you.

he told her stories about the yellowstone ranch when he tucked her into bed, her favorite black and white spotted stuffed horse in her arms as she gazed up at him with a smile and big hazel eyes that mirrored his own.

when she got older, you started bringing her down to the arena to show her what exactly her daddy did. at that point, he was on travis' main team of show horse trainers, and he was happy to show off for his wife and little girl. she was always excited to watch him, hanging off the fence with a wide grin as you stood behind her, waving at your husband just as travis yelled at him to get back to work. it was the first time jimmy had ever really talked back to him, yelling not to curse when his daughter was around. travis never did it again and began to show off for the eight year old when she was around too.

she was spunky, way spunkier than jimmy was ready for and sassier than he ever had been. "she gets this from you."

when she went to travis asking for her own horse and better lessons, her brows raised and arms crossed over her chest, jimmy nearly had a heart attack. he dismounted his horse, crossing to his daughter but not making it before travis responded.

"what do i get if i do? horses aren't free, you know."

"a new trainer," she answered, nodding at him firmly. "i've seen y'all do this my whole life. i've rode my whole life. just gimme a shot."

at the ripe age of ten, she'd managed to convince travis wheaton to give her a horse, let her dad teach her, and the opportunity to stay on as she trained. travis laughed when he passed jimmy, shaking his head. "i hate to break it to you, but she ain't your kid, jimmy."

jimmy breathed a sigh of relief before he pulled her up onto his horse, shaking his head and rolling his eyes.

"you've really got to talk to me about things like that before you just do it," he said. "that's my boss, you know that?"

"he ain't my boss," she laughed, kissing her dad on the cheek.

spencer dutton:

spencer had always wanted kids. and ever since he met you he knew he wanted to have them with you. but, life as a hunter in africa was dangerous enough as it is that you both agreed to wait.

life had other plans.

well, you weren't exactly careful, for one, and for two birth control was iffy, so you should've seen it coming sooner or later. it probably should've been later, but what the hell.

he decided that was the right time to quit being a predator hunter then and did what he could to get you both back to montana, hopefully before you popped. you didn't argue - you wanted to be home when you had your baby too. he took excellent care of you on each ship, each town, and on the train west, ensuring you always had water and foods that didn't make you want to throw up, being a constant pillow for when your body decided it needed a nap, and paying for the most comfortable accommodations the different vessels had.

you didn't know the gender of the baby until after you had her. you were exhausted, but spencer had been right by your side the whole way through, smoothing your hair back and cooling you down with a wet cloth as cara coached you through it.

the look on his face when cara exclaimed it was a girl was one you would never forget; a mixture between love, adoration, and excitement, and fear, protectiveness, and anxiety.

he coddled that baby girl. every night, he spent hours cooing to her as he rocked in the rocking chair his father had built when he was just a baby. he told her stories about cowboying and africa, sang her lullabies cara used to sing to him, and never missed an opportunity to kiss her sweet chubby cheeks.

"you're so good with her," you mumbled to him one night as you sat on his lap in the chair, head tucked into his neck as he held you in one arm and the baby in the other. "how do you do it?"

"i don't know," he whispered, glancing at you with a gentle smile before you both returned your gazes to your daughter. "loving her comes as easily to me as loving you. it's as natural as anything i've ever felt."

"so it's just instinct that helps you calm her in any situation?" you asked.

"well, i can't calm her in every situation," he said with a quiet chuckle. "you've got the only solution sometimes. but, yeah. i guess in other ways it is."

then things got worse with whitfield and the ranch. she was older then, about six, and spencer made sure she knew to never go anywhere alone, to scream for help if she ever saw anyone she didn't know on the ranch (because she knew and adored literally every cowboy working for jacob), and to run. fast.

and she was fast. like, surprisingly fast. she took great pleasure in challenging spencer and jack and jacob to races. spencer and jack always pretended to let her win, and so did jacob, but after he got shot she actually did start to win. when he was told to walk around to get better, she thought she would be encouraging by walking right by his side a little faster than he was able to. it did actually get him moving quicker, but cara was constantly rolling her eyes as she did it.

when she got older, of course spencer taught her how to shoot and hunt.

"this is what daddy did before you were born, princess," he told her as he helped her line up the sight to the target.

"kill things?" she asked, raising her brows. you laughed as you sat to the side, watching in amusement.

he cleared his throat, his brows furrowing a bit. "well, i mean, yes, but i was protecting people from animals that wanted to hurt them. and other times getting food for the family."

"so, do i have to get food for the family now?" she asked, looking down at the gun. he laughed.

"you don't have to, no," he reassured. "i just wanted to show you. it's something i love to do, and something to protect you. that's why mama knows."

"mama knows?"

"yes, i do, baby," you chimed in with a smile. "he showed me back when we were just teenagers. he's a lot better than me though, so you listen to him."

"can we shoot something real next time?" she asked, glancing back at spencer.

"maybe not next time, but when you get enough practice in then yeah," he answered.

"when is that?"

she had a lot of questions. and she always asked them. but, spencer was as even kiln as ever, so patient when he responded to her and made sure her curious little mind found the answers it needed.

but, whenever you thought of spencer as a father, there was always one night that came to mind. she was probably four and it was way past her bedtime. y'all had put her to sleep maybe ten times before she finally stayed in her room and you left to hopefully get some rest.

except spencer turned on the radio. you'd just gotten it the day before and were so excited about it and when he flicked it on, some slow, country tune was playing through it. he took you in his arms then, holding you close to his chest with his lips on your temple, swaying you both gentle along to the tune.

you were smiling the whole time, letting him twirl you once before bringing you in close again. only a few minutes into your impromptu slow dancing, your door was pushed open and in walked your toddler.

there was no shouting or frustrated demand for her to go back to sleep, even though that was very tempting given your last hundred tries to have her do just that. instead, spencer pressed a kiss to your head and twirled you out of his arms as he moved to scoop her up instead. he held her up with one arm, his other holding her hand as he spun slowly in circles.

"if i let you dance with mommy and me will you stay in bed?" he said, raising his brows as he met the eyes that matched his. she giggled, nodding as he kissed her cheek. "okay, then let's dance baby."

you leaned up against the bed frame, watching them with crossed arms and a smile as the music played through the small radio. he met your eyes and his smile grew, slowly spinning his way over to you. releasing your daughter's hand, he took yours instead and pulled you in close. his hand moved to your waist and soon you had your arms wrapped around him and your baby girl as he held her between you, swaying slowly.

as the song ended, he twirled you and then spun himself to earn a giggle from the toddler before setting her down and taking her small hand to give her a twirl as well.

your heart was so full in that moment. when he returned from tucking her in for the (hopefully) last time, you kissed him slowly, pulling away with a soft smile.

"you're a good dad, spencer," you told him. he shrugged, pulling you back in to hold you in a gentle embrace.

"you're a good mom. you make it easy for me."

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

thanks for reading! leave a request in the comments or message me privately! i love writing, so if you've got an idea you need fleshed out on paper i'd love to be the one to do that for you

masterlist!!

[i-heart-yellowstone]

hi! Can you do a Kacey fic about s4e1? Where him and Monica were already divorced, he was dating someone else who was with Tate that day. She gets shot protecting him. Just a lot of fluff!

thank you!

Protecting the Heir

Walking up the wooden stairs inside the main house I heard my phone started ringing inside my blue jeans pocket until I removed it outside of my pocket and pressed it up against my right ear. “Hey cowboy, how bored are you of that desk job already?”

“Extremely. Not much is happening today. I’d definitely rather be working the ranch with you and Tate.” Kayce sighed heavily on the other end of the phone.

I smiled weakly even though he couldn’t see it. “I know, honey. But just a few more hours and we can all cuddle up on the couch with some barbecue that Gator made and have nachos for dinner. How’s that sound?”

“You’re a girl truly after a rancher's heart.” Kayce declares and I swore I could almost hear the smile on his voice.

I snorted a laugh back in response. “Well I am dating one after all.”

“I'll make you my wife tonight when I get back if you keep talking like that. What is that - oh shit!” Kayce mumbled something under his breath before I could hear gun fire on his end of the phone call.

I called out his name, beginning to worry. “Kayce! Kayce what's happening over there?”

“Go to the bunkhouse.”

I asked him not sure what he meant. “What?”

“Find Tate and go to the bunkhouse. Grab one of the shotguns by the kitchen too.” He shouted back at me before I heard gunfire going off in rapid fire before the phone call went dead. I called his name even though the line had cut off, feeling a nervous tightness inside my chest. “Kayce! - shit - Tate, Tate!”

Bolting up the rest of the way of the staircase searching through the rooms for the young boy. When Kayce moved back onto his father’s ranch he had brought his son to live with him. During that time I was hired by John as his new horse trainer, which allowed me and Kayce something to instantly bond over.

He had divorced his wife Monica a few months before we had met. She still has some visitation with Tate but ultimately Kayce and I have full rights and parenting responsibilities over his son.

“Y/n! What happened?” Tate’s voice came from his bedroom before I saw him running straight towards me.

Wrapping my arms around his body once it collided with my body I held him for a brief moment. Remembering the phone call with my fiancé I broke the hug intertwining my hand with his, leading him down the stairs quickly. “Turn around and go down the stairs. Your daddy says we gotta leave.”

We scrambled through the living room heading towards the kitchen that had a door closest in the direction of the Bunkhouse. I gasped slamming into the chest of a guy dressed all in black clothing and a mask so I couldn’t see his face. “Urgh!”

“You or the kid try to run and I’ll kill you.” The stranger reached inside his coat, revealing a handgun from the waist of his jeans.

Pushing Tate behind me I glared at the guy. “You’re going to kill us either way.”

“I’d suggest you not talk back to me girl if you know what is good for you.” He warned me by keeping the barrel aimed directly at my forehead.

I didn’t waste another second before raising my leg and kicking the stranger in his groin causing him to drop the firearm and dropping to the ground in pain. Whipping my head around I hollered to the young Dutton standing behind me. “Tate, get to the bunkhouse - arrgg!” Suddenly the guy yanked me backwards by my hair, throwing me down onto the kitchen floor. He wrapped his hands around my throat, choking me while I attempted to reach for the handgun with my right foot. He noticed and elbowed me with his rib, making me moan. “Asshole!”

“Y/n!” Tate called my name hiding in the doorway of the kitchen, panic clear in his voice.

I punched the guy in the jaw where he held his chin rubbing the sore area. I began crawling away reaching for the gun, nearly grabbing it with my fingertips till he grabbed the back of my jacket dragging me backwards to him. “You’re gonna pay for that, bitch!” He wrapped one hand around my throat taking out a knife and quickly stabbing me in my lower stomach making me scream like a banshee.

The attacker removed the knife ready to stab me a second time but his body immediately collapsed beside me following a loud bang sound. “T-Tate.” Slowly rolling onto my side when I lifted my head I sighed in relief seeing the young kid holding the handgun in his hands.

“Y/n, you’re - you’re bleeding.” He lowered the handgun eyeing the stab wound on my stomach.

Getting up from the ground holding onto the nearby counter for balance I noticed my eyes getting heavier the second I was standing straight up. My throat was sore and I felt like I couldn’t catch my breath. “Tate - call - 9 - 1 - 1.” Pressing my freehand to my bleeding wound I saw that my hand was quickly being covered in my own blood. I went to take a step forward towards the kid unfortunately I collapsed before him immediately falling unconscious.

The next time I blinked open my eyes I quickly shut them closed, getting blinded by the bright hospital lights shining down on me. Peeking one eye open I turned my head to the side seeing Kayce sleeping on the bed side of my bed with his head resting on his crossed arms until I lifted my hand close to him gently shaking him awake. “Kayce. Kayce, hey.”

“Hmm. Y/n. Y/n, oh my gosh.” Relief was the first expression to cross the youngest Dutton son’s face. He got up from his chair raising a hand to the side of my face cradling it in his palm. “I thought I had lost you. The nurse said you had lost a lot of blood.”

Leaning into his palm I placed my hand over his larger one. “Nobody can get rid of me that easily. Where’s Tate?”

“He’s out in the waiting room. I didn’t - the doctor recommended that he saw you once- if you woke up. Fuck, I thought I was about to lose you when I saw you all bruised and bandaged up laying in this bed.” Kayce admitted with watery eyes sniffing through tears. I could tell he was trying to remain tough but it didn’t last before he started bawling happy tears.

Opening my arms out wide I gestured my head to the side wanting him to climb up into the hospital bed with me. “Awe, come up here cowboy.”

“We can't both fit on the bed.” He shook his head no.

I smirked in his direction, raising a brow knowing he would cave in a second. “You thought differently when it came to having sex in the backseat of your truck.”

A genuine chuckle left his lips which was a rare sight to see given the lifestyle of his family. He pushed his chair back away from the bed then climbing into the bed once I had scooted over to the other side allowing him room. “Sometimes I wish you didn’t know me so well.” He wrapped his arms around my waist.

Running my thumb over the stubble on his chin I locked my gaze with his deep brown eyes. “If I didn’t pay attention to what you like, I'm not sure I’d be wearing this engagement ring on my finger.”

“I was thinking about that actually. How would you like to get married tonight?”

I sharply gaspe not expecting those words to come from his mouth. “Kayce John Dutton are you shiting me right now?”

“No, darling.” He stared deeply stare at me. “I’m very serious. Today made me realize that I don’t want to wait another minute. I want to call you my wife now.”

Draping my arms over his shoulders I leaned forward connecting my lips with his. He leans into the kiss moving one of his hands to the side of my face and his other hand gently threaded into my hair deepening the kiss the second he earned a moan from my lips. I threw one of my legs over his before he shifted so he was laying on his back and I was sitting on top of his lap, only focusing on how good it felt to kiss the other in this moment.

“Ew gross!” Kayce and I broke the heated kiss quickly turning our heads to the doorway noticing his ten year old son was standing there watching us.

I blushed, sending the kid a bright smile. “Tate, I’m happy to see you.”

“Are you feeling better after getting shot?” He asked nicely, crossing the room until he was at the end of the bed.

Nodding my head I knew I'd definitely feel more of the pain once I left the hospital since they had to do surgery to remove the bullet and close up the stab wound that I had. “I'm a little sore but I'll be fine. I'm just relieved that guy didn't hurt you.”

“So can we go get ice cream to celebrate your okay or are you and my dad going to start having sex again?” The young boy asked catching me and his father off guard.

Kayce turned bright red in the face as I was. “Tate!”

“What. I know when you close the bedroom to cuddle really means.” He shrugged his shoulders, sending us a disgusted face.

Running a hand down my face I sighed heavily so embarrassed. Dropping my hands into my lap I turned my attention back to his father who was likely still waiting on an answer from me. “So - uh about your idea earlier. How exactly would you get me discharged from the hospital in enough time for us to rush to the courthouse to get married before they close for the evening?”

“Simple, we just walk out and say we ain't got time to wait. We wanna get fucking married.” Kayce said with a smirk across his face, and I knew there was no changing his mind once he had an idea in his head.

I warned him. “Kayce.”

“Please darling.” He gave me sweet puppy dog eyes.

Closing my eyes I paused for a moment before getting his son's attention. “Tate, go grab one of the wheelchairs in the hallway. We're busting out of this place.” He ran out into the hallway leaving me and my fiancé in the room alone.

Grabbing Kayce’s jaw with my fingers I turned his chin so he was looking back at me before capturing my lips with his. “I can’t believe I’m gonna be calling you my husband tonight because you’re so impatient, Dutton.”

“Have you ever known my sister to be patient about anything? That should have told you that it runs in the family, honey.” He chuckled, kissing me longingly where I wrapped my arms around his neck deepening the kiss, happy that I would call him my husband the second Tate came back to help me sneak out of the hospital room.

[raven-dor]

i'm too scared to say...

in which kayce dutton loses the girl he should've had…

PAIRING: kayce dutton x fem!reader, young kayce dutton x young fem!reader WARNINGS: young love, realization, ANGST ANGST ANGST, CRAZY amounts of yearning, cussing, arguing, regret, did i mention angst? (dear arthur letter) WORD COUNT: 4.4k

🎶 : when i picture you - chappell roan

when i picture you

AN: by young I mean 18, about to go to college young!! there is a second (modern) part of this, so stay tuned!!

The air nipped at Kayce’s cheeks as him, his father, and their search party trotted back to the ranch. It was nearly 10, at the least, he assumed. He could see a figure in the distance, her skirt billowing in the wind as she (he assumed) pulled his Carhartt jacket closer for warmth. He suddenly felt warmer knowing that she was waiting for him. Then worry ran through his veins. How long had she been waiting there for him? 

His father groaned. “Christ, Kayce. Just got back and she’s already waitin’ after you.” 

He fought the urge to snap at his father. “She’s excited, that’s all.” Kayce stayed diligently beside him, but he itched to race the rest of the distance and pull her into his arms.

“Well go on then.” 

Kayce grinned. “Really?” 

“I can see your mind moving a hundred miles an hour. Just-” He sighed, laughing as he spoke. “Make sure to bring her up for dinner.” 

“Yes, sir.” 

He waited for no further instruction, kicking his horse to gallop at full speed. There she stood, as radiant as ever, right at the gate. He jumped off, catching her in his arms. He grinned, kissing her rosy cheeks. “Hi, baby.” 

“I was worried about you.” She giggled as he kissed her between every word. “Was your trip- Mmph!”

Good, he thought. All he thought about since he’d left was kissing her, and her adorable speech was getting in the way of that. Her eyes fluttered shut, and he wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her even closer.

He tilted his hat up, leaning his forehead against hers. “I’m trying to kiss you, and you keep talking.” 

“I’m sorry, I just-” She laughed, pushing him away half heartedly when he inched toward her lips again. “Kayce!” 

“Let me look at you.” She rolled her eyes, obliging him by spinning in a circle. “Just as perfect as I left you.” 

“It’s been two days, Kayc.” She glared. 

“Really?” He smirked, pulling her and JR toward the stables. “With that welcome, you woulda thought I went to war.” 

“If you’re going to tease…” She muttered, releasing his hand and leaning against JR’s stable door. She’d always found it sweet, the way Kayce took care of his horse. Still, she couldn’t let him think he’d won. “Maybe next time, I won’t be there to welcome you.” 

He laughed, patting JR on the side before shutting her stable doors. He turned around, swinging his arm around Y/N’s shoulders and pulling her up to the lodge. “Empty threats, baby.” 

His smile was beautiful, she’d always made a point to tell him so. She enjoyed seeing his cheeks grow red, and words fail to leave his mouth. 

When they were younger, they’d get into mud fights, and she swore his smile had never been brighter.

She was wrong, of course. If you’d asked Kayce, he would’ve said his smile was brighter than when she was in his sights.

The lodge was eerily quiet, but then again, it had been that way since Beth and Jamie left. All that was left now was Kayce, Lee, and Mr.Dutton. 

And of course, Gator. Sweet Gator. 

Kayce took his arm off her, pulling her chair out. Y/N laughed, kissing his cheek. “You’ve raised such a gentleman, Mr.Dutton.” 

Lee laughed, taking a sip of his bourbon as he shook his head. Kayce glared at his older brother, sitting beside his girlfriend. “Why are you laughin'?” 

“You’re a gentleman.” Lee wiggled his eyebrows. “I never would have guessed.” 

“You wouldn’t know one if he stood right in front of you.” Kayce shot back. “I-” 

“Kayc?” Y/N interupted. “He’s just teasing.” 

Mr. Dutton rarely responded to her comments, let alone spoke at the dinner table. Instead, he opted to sit back and observe his children, and their occasional guests. He used to be rowdy, she reminisced on simpler times when Mrs. Dutton had made everyone giggle with ease. 

Even her now stoic husband. 

“How was the trip, Mr. Dutton?” Y/N asked as she cut her steak into pieces. “Did you find the lost cattle?” 

Lee winced, and she looked over to her boyfriend, his eyes wide. Shit. 

Mr. Dutton leaned back in his chair. “Found half dead.” 

“Oh.” The air felt thick, and she suddenly felt the urge to race out of the room. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know.” 

“Not your fault.” He forced a smile. “Suppose Kayce forgot to tell you then.” 

“Yes, sir.”

“How has school been treating you?” He pretended to be interested in her from time to time. This had been the fifteenth time that he’d asked her about school - this month. “Kayce tells me you're one of the smart ones.” 

She smiled shyly. “Well, I wouldn’t say that…” 

“Tell him how you can speak Latin, baby.” Kayce looked at his dad, proud as ever. “She can speak Latin.” 

“I can read Latin, Kayc, not speak it.” Y/N placed her hand over his. “I’ve applied to five schools so far. Should be hearing back any day now.” 

“What schools?” 

“I’ve applied to Yale, Stanford, NYU, Vanderbilt, and Montana State. Hopefully for Political Science, and then Law during grad school.” 

Mr. Dutton raised an eyebrow. “Montana State for law?”

“Yes, sir.” 

“For the last time, Y/N, it’s John.” 

She smiled. “Montana State is the best college in the state.” 

“It’s one of the only colleges in the state.” He laughed. “That can’t be your top choice.”

“It’s not, but still...” She hoped he didn’t dive further into the subject, she could feel where this was going. She’d only told her father this, but she only applied to MU to be closer to Kayce. “Just an option.” 

“Your father wants you closer to home then?” 

“My father encouraged out-of-state schools. Wanted me to gain experience in the ‘real world’ or something like that.” 

The older man laughed. “I told Beth and Jamie to do the same.” 

Kayce squeezed her hand tightly, and she looked over, whispering. “You alright?”  He nodded quickly, not even bothering to meet her eyes. She frowned. “Kayce-” 

“It’s alright, baby.” He let go of her hand so quickly you would have guessed it had been on fire. “Eat up, your steak’s gettin’ cold.” 

Kayce hadn’t looked up from his plate for the rest of the night. 

Unfortunately, that meant for Y/N (besides her boyfriend ignoring her) that she had had to make conversation with Lee and Mr. Dutton by herself. He just stared at his plate, picking at his food like he wasn’t hungry. After the hundredth time of trying to get his attention, she realized that she should probably just leave. She sat her napkin down, smoothing out her dress. “I should be getting home.”

Mr. Dutton nodded. “Tell your father I said hello.” 

“Will do.” She stood up and waved goodbye. “Lee.” 

“See you, Y/N.” 

She pushed her chair in, staring at Kayce. “Kayce?” He refused to look up, and she scoffed, storming out of the house. 

“You best go after her.” 

Kayce glared at his older brother. “Why?” 

“Cause you’ve been ignoring her all night, that’s why.” Lee leaned forward in his seat. “She is the best chance you got, and you just let her leave.” 

“We’ll talk in the morning.” 

Lee held his hands up in surrender. “Fine. It’s your funeral.” 

Kayce almost immediately stood up, following after her. Lee smirked. “Stupid kid.” 

“Y/N!” She rolled her eyes, stalking toward her car. “Baby, come on!” 

“Don’t baby me!” She yelled over her shoulder. “You just ignored me for two hours, Kayce John Dutton!” 

“Baby-” 

“I said don’t baby me.” She whipped around, eyes wild with anger or embarrassment, he couldn’t tell. “Or do your ears need cleaning out?” 

“My ears are just fine.” He sighed. “I’m sorry, okay?” 

“What exactly are you sorry for?” She raised an eyebrow. “Because you don’t seem sorry to me.” 

“I-” He groaned. “What do you want me to say, Y/N?” 

“Well, not that. Because that was the wrong answer, Dutton.” She laughed, although there was no humor present. “Come find me when you do know.” She turned back toward her car, unlocking it and pulling on the handle. She’d almost shut the door when his hand grabbed the top, stopping her from her escape. 

“We’re fine, right?” 

“Kayce, just let me go.” She let go of the door, staring at the wheel with a newfound interest. “We’ll talk when you know.” 

“I- I do know.” 

“Please share with the class.” 

“I don’t want you to have to settle.” 

That had shocked her. She looked up, staring into his eyes. “Settle?” 

“You’re so smart, baby.” He crouched down, taking her hand in his. “So smart, much more than me. You applied to Yale and I only applied to Montana. Hell, I might not even get in.” 

“Don’t say that.” She frowned, her exterior cracking as she turned in her seat, facing him and pushing a hair out of his face. “You’re every bit as smart as me.” 

“Don’t-” He scoffed. “You and I know that's true. It’s not a bad thing. You could probably run the world if you wanted to.” 

“Not a real job.” She murmured, laughing as Kayce glared at her playfully. “But I appreciate the sentiment.” She put her hands on his cheeks, caressing his cheeks. “You’re sweet for thinking that though, Kayce.” 

“Thank you-” 

“Just-” Her eyes looked sad. “Don’t put yourself down for me, okay? You really are just as smart. In different areas, sure. But…” She smiled, leaning down and kissing him gently. “Just as smart.” 

“Whatever you say, sweetheart.” He stood up, shutting her door and leaning through her open window. “Tell your father I said hello.” 

“I will.” He nodded. “And Kayce?” 

“Yeah, baby?” 

“I love you.” 

"I love you, too."

“I don’t know about this.” Y/N tensed up as Kayce led JR around the pen. “I feel like I’m gonna fall off.” 

“If you’re tense, the horse is tense.” He smiled, placing a reassuring hand on her thigh. “Just relax.” 

“That’s helpful.” She glared. “Why didn’t I think of that earlier?” 

“Sass doesn’t make the horse calmer either.” He laughed. “Put your hand on her side, and pet her gently.” 

She nodded. “Okay.” 

“Good, good. Now just feel her breath with yours.” Y/N visibly calmed down, and he fought the grin that begged to peek out. “See that? You’re one and the same.” 

“Yeah.” She smiled, humming and closing her eyes. 

“Might not want to do that, baby.” 

“Why not?” She hummed. “Because I’m not steering anymore.” 

“What?” Her eyes shot up, and discovered he was true to his word. Kayce was no longer leading JR, but standing in the middle of the pen, laughing at her. “That’s not funny Kayce!”

“I don’t know. It was pretty funny to me.” He yelled back. “Go a little faster why don’t you?” 

“How?” 

“Lightly squeeze your legs!” The horse sped up almost instantly, and he grinned. “Good job, baby!” 

“I’m doing it!” She practically squealed. “Kayc, are you watching?” 

“Yes, baby.” He laughed. “Yes, I’m watching.” 

“This is so fun!” She yelled. “Why didn’t you teach me sooner?” 

“Ms. Y/N!” Kayce turned around, Lloyd waving an envelope in the air. “Your father came by, said he had a letter for you.”

Y/N raced over to the other side of the pen, taking the envelope from Lloyd’s hand, and muttering thank you. Kayce sauntered over, looking up at her hands. 

“What is it?” 

She shrugged. “Dunno. I’ll look at it later.” 

He tilted his head. “You sure? If your dad dropped it off it must be-”

“Can we go on a ride?” She interrupted. Kayce didn’t miss the way she was skirting around the letter. But he could never turn down a ride, never. “Please?” 

“Sure baby. Scoot back.” 

“Why?” 

“I don’t think you’re quite ready for a ride all by yourself.” 

She scoffed, sticking her tongue out playfully. “You don’t believe in me, you can just say it.” 

Their spot was perfect. There was a tree to tie JR to, a log to lay their heads on, and the perfect amount of shade thanks to the trees that loomed over them. The birds flitted from tree to tree, the creek babbling behind them as the sun peeked through the branches.

Kayce hummed. “You look gorgeous.” 

“Thank you.” She blushed, kissing his cheek. “Take that hat off?” 

“What for?” He raised an eyebrow. 

“I want to wear it.” She scoffed. “The sun’s gettin’ in my eyes.”

“What if the sun’s getting in my eyes too?” 

“Hmm.” She tapped her chin, pretending to think. “Come here.” Laying her head against the log, she tapped the crook of her neck. “You can lay your head right here, I can almost guarantee the sun won’t hit your eyes here.” 

He nodded quickly. “Yes, ma’am.” His hat had been too big for her since he’d gotten it five years ago, but she still insisted that she wear it from time to time. She looked down, blushing when she saw he was already staring at her. She turned her head away, giggling. 

“What’s so funny?”

“You- you just like looking at me, huh?” 

He nodded, kissing the crook of her neck lightly. “I do.” 

Her heart fluttered at the feeling. “I’m gonna explode if you stare at me too long.” 

“Well, we can’t have that.” He hummed. “Can you look at me?” She shook her head, and his eyebrows furrowed. “Why not?” 

“I’m embarrassed.” 

“Oh?” He smirked. “How come?” 

“I think you know why, Kayce. You always do this, you know you do.”

“What is it that I do?” 

The smug bastard. She turned back toward him, staring directly into his eyes, and whispered. “You look at me and I turn to mush.” 

He laughed, quickly kissing her lips before laying back down. “You do the same thing to me, baby.” 

He fell asleep (what seemed like) seconds later. Looking down at her boyfriend, Y/N couldn’t help but smile. He looked so content with his arm slung around her waist, occasionally pulling her closer in his sleep. 

Her heart broke the longer she looked at him. She’d felt horrible lying to him earlier, about the letter. When Lloyd had handed her the envelope and the address read Connecticut, she knew that would be the wrong place, the wrong time to tell him. 

She told herself that every time she got a letter from Yale. How would she bring it up? It would break his heart, as much as he tried to pretend it hadn’t. 

It didn’t help that they hadn’t talked about college since their argument in November. 

It was now late April, two weeks before graduation.

She had one week to accept her offer, and ever since she’d been admitted, they’d been bombarding her with letters. Her father had been furious when he’d found out she’d ignored them. He always went on long rants about wanting her to have more, more than he ever had, or ever could. 

And Montana, in his opinion, didn’t have that. 

But when she looked at Kayce, at their little life on the ranch, she knew he was wrong. Kayce would be happy for her, they could figure it out. She vowed then and there, she would tell him as they rode back. 

“Kayce?” Her arms were wrapped tightly around his waist.

He hummed. “Yeah?” 

“I need to tell you something.” 

“Alright…” 

“I-” She laid her face on his back, his jacket muffling the sound of her voice. “Just promise you won’t be mad.” 

“Why would I be mad?” He felt like he was going to have a heart attack.

“You remember the letter from earlier?” 

He nodded. 

“It was important.” Her voice wavered as she spoke. “It was from Yale.” 

“Yeah?” 

“I got in.” 

“What?” Kayce pulled JR to a stop, grinning. “You did?” 

“Yeah.” She nodded. “I did.” 

“Baby!” He got off the horse, pulling her down so he could spin her around. “That’s great, that’s really great!” 

She giggled, throwing her head back as he spun her. “You’re not mad?” 

“Why would I be mad?” He stopped spinning her, lowering her until their lips were inches apart. “I knew you would.” 

“Yeah?” 

“Yeah!” He nodded, tipping his hat up, kissing her so passionately she thought her knees would go out. “God, I’m so proud of you.” 

“Kayce!” She giggled. “I’m not done.” 

“What else is there?” He murmured, leaning his forehead against hers. 

“I don’t think I’m going to accept the offer.” 

His eyes widened. “Why not?” 

“I- I don’t want to leave you. Montana State is good, and I can get a great degree here… with you.”

“Well, that’s… wow.” He frowned. “Are you sure about this?”

“I’ve thought about it a lot, Kayc. A lot. I can’t imagine my life without you in it and I don’t think I can take moving across the country.” 

“And I can’t imagine my life without you either.” He reassured her. “But this is a big opportunity baby. I don’t want you to give it up.” 

“I’m not giving it up. I’m choosing to stay here. No one’s forcing me to do anything.” 

She put her hand on his cheek. “Okay?” 

“Okay.” He nodded, helping her back onto JR, but it ate at him, the fact that she was staying here for him. It was plain as day, even if she wouldn’t admit it. 

Still, if she wanted to stay, he wouldn’t push her away. He loved her too much for that.

“Where have you been?” 

Kayce jumped, clutching his heart. “Jesus, Dad.” 

“So?” His deep voice echoed through the living room. 

“Out with Y/N.” 

“Ah.”

He knew he shouldn’t have told his father, but he felt so proud, so immensely proud to even know her, he had to. “She got into Yale.” 

“Yale huh?” 

He nodded. “Yes, sir.” 

“I bet her father’s real proud.” 

“I don’t think he knows.” That had been Kayce’s second mistake. “She’s planning on staying here.” 

“Really?” John laughed, shaking his head. “Huh.” 

“What?” Kayce crossed his arms, staring at his dad. “I can tell you want to say something.” 

“She’s a smart girl, that’s all.” 

“I know she is, Dad.” 

“Really think she belongs here?” 

Kayce shrugged. “Dunno. But it’s not really my choice, is it?” 

“I suppose not.” He stood up, patting his son on the shoulder. “Sleep tight, son.” 

He hadn’t slept a bit. He knew his father was right, in a way. No way was he going to let Y/N stay here for him and him alone. 

And while he forced himself to eat breakfast, he came to a gut-wrenching realization. 

He had to break up with her. 

He jumped in his truck, racing over to her house as he rehearsed what to say. She wouldn’t take it well anyway he said it, but he had to do this. She deserved the world, and staying here would most definitely take her away from it. 

God, she was perfect. She was wearing his favorite sundress, sitting on the porch reading. He’d sat in his truck, honestly considering driving away when she looked up. Shit. 

She got up, walking over to his truck window, waiting for him to roll it down. “What are you doing here?” 

He sighed, rolling down the window. “Came over to talk to you.” 

“Oh?” She frowned. “Something wrong?” 

He couldn’t- He couldn’t do it. “Do you want to go walk by the creek?” 

“Sure…” Her eyes watched him suspiciously. “Did your dad say something again? You know he’s wrong, baby.” 

This time, he had been right. It killed him, it broke his heart, but he was right. Walking side by side in silence, they sat down by the creek, throwing rocks in haphazardly. “What happened Kayce?” 

He took his hat off, setting it beside him. “We need to break up.” His eyes widened as he said it. 

She hadn’t even reacted crazily. “What did your father say, Kayc?” 

“He didn’t say anything.” His third mistake of the day. “I think it’s best if we-” 

“You do huh?” She laughed. “What happened to yesterday? About being proud of me?” 

“I am proud of you. But-” 

“But what?” 

“You can’t stay here because of me.” 

“I’m not-” 

“Yes, you are!” He stood up, arms flying through the air. “You’re too smart, baby. You know this is a mistake, and you can’t admit it.” 

“It’s not a mistake.” She spoke calmly. He groaned, walking further down the creek. It wasn't until she placed her hand on his shoulder that he turned around. “It’s not just about you, you know. My dad’s getting older, and with Mama gone, I need to take care of him.” 

“Baby… Your father is 54. He’s not old.” 

“Kayce! Just-” She sounded upset. Now he’d done it. “Do you want me to leave?” 

“Yes! Yes, I do!” Her eyes widened, and he stuttered. “Not for the reason you’re thinkin’. Just-” He sighed. “You need to see the world, experience life! You belong out there, not stuck in Montana.” 

“I’m not stuck Kayce! I’m happy. Really happy.”

“And there’s nothing I love more than when you’re happy. But you-“

“You don’t get to decide what I do.” 

“I know that, but my dad-” 

“Oh.” She laughed, crossing her arms. “Oh, so he did say something?” 

“He did. But he wasn’t wrong. You-” He reached out for her hand, surprised when she still let him hold it. “Baby, listen to me. You are beautiful, and kind, and smart, and witty, and you don’t belong here as a rancher’s wife. You belong out there, showing everyone what you can do. I couldn’t bear it if you-”

“A rancher’s wife?” Her voice was small, so small he hardly caught it. 

“Really? That’s what you got from this?” He groaned. “Y/N, are you listening-” 

“I am.” Her voice was hard. “I’m hearing that you think I’m not thinking this through and that your father doesn’t approve. Well, guess what, Dutton? I don’t give two shits what your father thinks. This is my life, and you can’t tell me how to live it.” 

He could only think of one thing, one thing that would get her to leave. His heart fully died as he said it, but it had to be done. “I never loved you.” 

Her whole face had recoiled in shock, and she ripped her hand out of his hold. “What?” 

“You heard me.” He walked around her, grabbing his hat off the ground. “I’ll mail your thing-” 

She grabbed his wrist, pulling him around and looking him square in the eyes. “What is this? Is this some tactic to get me to leave?” She had this horrible ability to see through him.

He shook his head. “No, I just realized that I shouldn’t be wasting your time. Wasn’t trying to hurt you but-” 

Her hand had collided with his cheek before he could think.

“Fuck you Kayce.” 

He watched as she walked back toward the house, tears in his eyes. In part because of that firm slap, but mostly because he’d just torn his own heart in two. He put his hat back on, walking miserably back to his truck. Just as he’d grabbed the door handle, she shoved him, hard. 

“You’re dead to me.” Sobs wrecked through her as she screamed. “I can’t look at you.” 

He’d just let her push him. For a bit, it made him feel better, but when she tried to slap him again, he grabbed her wrists, pulling her close. “Stop, just stop.” 

She wrestled under his hold. “Let go of me!” 

“Baby-”

“Don’t call me that!” Her voice rang through the ranch as she ripped her wrists out of his hold. “Get out of here. I don’t want to see your face again!” 

He nodded, opening the door and starting the truck. Tears streamed down her face as she clung to the door. “We-re not- we’re not really done are we?” 

He hadn’t even realized he’d been crying. “Let go of the truck, Y/N.” 

“Baby- wait-”

He pressed the gas, roaring out of the driveway, leaving her covered in dust. “Shit!” He screamed, his sobs overtaking him. “Fuck!” 

My dear Kayce, 

You never showed up. And now, after looking at the news, I understand why. I hope you don’t lose the ranch, after everything that’s happened there. All the memories we share, all the memories your family built there. 

I don’t believe you will read this letter. I nonetheless, must send you this. 

Kayce, my dear Kayce. 

It was foolish of me to dream that dream. Rancher’s wife? How could I when the rancher doesn’t love me? 

I miss you, and I will always miss you. But you’re right. I cannot live like this. And it seems you cannot live any other way. When I’m with you the world makes sense, but when we are apart I see clearly that your world is not a world from which one can escape. 

I’m so sorry, for everything. For everything I said, and did, and for putting you in that position. There’s a good man within you, Kayce. 

A bad man would have let me stay.

I enclose in this letter, a ring that you gave me. Remember, the ring that you gave me at the rodeo some years ago? I remember.

It’s not because I don’t like it, but because it reminds me too much of you. I hope, by returning it to you, I can be free of you, just like you are of me. 

Goodbye,

Y/N

His shoulders shook as he read the letter. God, she had no idea how wrong she was. He wasn’t free of her, he never would be. But now, things were different. Now, after mere weeks apart, he’d made a mistake, one that was irreversible. 

“Baby? You comin’ back to bed?” 

He turned around, smiling. “I’ll be there in a second Monica.” 

She nodded. “Okay.” She sauntered over, and he quickly wiped the tears from his face. “Don’t be too long.”

“I won’t.” He waited until she left the room to look back at the letter. He walked over to his desk, placing the folded paper carefully in his bottom drawer. He couldn’t bring himself to throw it away, but he couldn’t look at it. Not when he had a family on the way.

taglist:

[topguncortez]

Sunburn - K. Dutton

whumptober masterlist || previous day

prompt: Heatstroke

synopsis: The Montana summers weren't for the weak. You and Kayce have unspoken history.

warnings: heatstroke, passing out, vomiting, mentions of abuse, mentions of drug usage, mentions of running away, Monica and Tate don't exist.

word count: 2.1k

There was something about Montana summers. 

The valley in which the Yellowstone ranch laid, had its fair share of weather changes. The winters were brutal, feet of snow coating the land, the wind bitter against the skin making it hard to want to get up in the morning and do chores. Spring usually brought inches upon inches of rain, damn near flooding the place and making it a muddy mess trying to move cattle in preparation for breeding season. Fall was a vibrant display of changing leaves, and the scent of fields being harvested in time before the first frost. 

But the summers, the summers were something else. Blame global warming, or whatever you wanted, but the summers in Montana were hot and steamy. The sun was unforgiving most days, beating down on you and your horse as you worked from sunup till sundown, training and cleaning horse stalls, helping move cattle from pasture to pasture, and carrying out the daily maintenance of the ranch. Most of the cowboys didn’t have an issue, but you on the other hand, never quite got along with the heat. 

It was supposed to be an “easy day”, Rip had barked at all of you as you shuffled into the barn to get tack up your horses, but the sun was already blaring its god awful rays down on the earth. Your skin felt sticky from the humidity and your hair was already sticking to your forehead underneath your hat. You left your water jug in the bunkhouse, choosing to fuel your body with the dark roast coffee Loyd had made instead. 

“You think the Devil just walked up here and decided to fuck with the temperature,” Ryan said, sitting on top of the fence, watching you and Colby rake it out. 

“Don’t know,” Colby grunted, “Think you could quit fucking complaining and help?” 

“I don’t want to melt,” Ryan chirped back and you rolled your eyes. The two of them fought like an old married couple most days.

Colby and Ryan were the first two to make you feel welcome in the bunkhouse. It was hard walking into a house full of men, no one knowing who you are or what you had shown up at the ranch for. Everyone knew bits and pieces of your story, you had known Kayce when you were younger, highschool sweethearts or something of the sort. He was the one who got away, or so you had said. While he was thriving in the military, you were left behind, struggling and doing anything you could to make a buck. You had shown up on his doorstep, soaking wet in the rain and begging for a job, begging to finally leave behind the life you had created for yourself. Kayce barely gave you the time of day, telling you to walk back down the road, take a left, and keep going until you reach the bunkhouse, that there would be someone there to help you. Since then, you and Kayce had been walking on eggshells around each other. 

“Okay, Princess,” You rolled your eyes, lifting your hat slightly off your head, and wiping away the sweat, “It’s fucking hot.” You stared at the heat waves rippling off of the earth for a moment, as the familiar sound of cowboy boots crunching on the gravel drew close. 

“What up, boss man,” Kolby greeted Kayce with a nod of his head, “Come to sweat with the worst of us?” 

“No, I need the girl,” Kayce said gruffly, and you turned to look at him, “We’re moving cattle. Let’s go,” He turned and walked back the direction he came without another word. You scoffed, throwing the pitchfork down. 

“What a fucking douche,” You grumbled, but went and followed after him to where the horses were enjoying the cool air of the barn. Kayce’s horse, of course, was already saddled up. You weren’t about to ask him for help as you grabbed your saddle from the wall, and walked down to your horse’s stall. You could feel his impatient tension like an extra cloud of heat in the air. 

“Ready?” Kayce asked as you walked your horse down the barn alley, and you nodded, silently following him outside. 

The two of you rode in silence for most of the journey, slowly but surely pushing cattle from one pasture into another. You weren’t sure why you, of all the people on the Yellowstone Ranch, had to be the one out here, sweating with Kayce. Normally, you wouldn’t have minded the silent rides through the rolling fields, but it wasn’t just the heat making you not want to be out here. 

Kayce thought that asking you to come out here with him would be the perfect chance to tell you how he felt. He, just as much as you, was tired of the awkward dance that you had been doing since you showed up. He didn’t need to ask too many questions that night when you came knocking on his door, soaked to the bone, nothing more than skin and bones. When he left for the Navy, a mere days after graduation and breaking your heart, he had asked Beth to keep an eye out for you. Begrudgingly, she did so, and told him about the shift in your life. You had always dreamed of getting out of Montana, but you never made it that far. 

Every time Kayce thought of saying something, of apologizing or even just asking how you have been, his mouth went dry and his mind blank. Instead, he thought that maybe even getting you near would break some of the tension, but he was so wrong. It seemed as if the tension had picked up a notch as the two of you rode next to each other. 

“Fuck, is it hotter out here, or is it just me,” You mumbled as you sat on top of your horse. The body heat from the animal was soaking into you, paired with the brutal beatdown from the sun, your skin felt like it was physically burning. 

“Complainin’ ain’t gonna make the sun go away,” Kayce said back and you rolled your eyes. The last thing you needed was the sass from him. Your skin felt dry and your head was pounding. All you wanted was to feel the cold stream of water in the bunkhouse shower. 

— — — 

You had never felt so happy to have your feet back on the ground. Three hours sitting up on a horse in the sun, slowly moving cattle into a new pasture. You knew that your shoulders were horribly sunburnt, and the sweat stains in between your thighs from sitting on the saddle made it look like you wet yourself. 

Kayce felt happy too, to be back on solid ground. He would be lying if he said the heat hadn’t gotten to him either. He was used to being in hot temp areas, but he would take being in full kit in Afghanistan versus sitting on a horse waiting for cattle to hurry up and move. Kayce had taken his horse back to the barn, carefully taking the tack off of him and hanging it up. He told Loyd to give the animal a good wash down, wanting to make sure his horse was cooled down before being put away for the night. 

Kayce slowly made his way down the alley of the barn, stopping just right outside of your horse’s stall. He had been thinking of what he was going to say to you since the moment he got you alone out in the field. The two of you had yet to have “the talk” since you arrived months ago, and he wasn’t sure how much longer he could go without it. Every time he saw you, the words that he wanted to say were right at the tip of his tongue, but the second you looked at him, they all seemed to go blank. But now, it was as good a time as any. 

“Y/N,” Kayce said, stepping into the horse stall. You stood by your horse, your hand on its belly, back facing Kayce, “We need to talk.” 

You blinked a couple of times, trying to stop the black spots floating in your vision, and trying to keep yourself up right. You felt like your knees could give out at any moment. 

“Y/N?” Kayce called out. He reached out to touch your shoulder, as you doubled over and vomited into the hay sheddings, “Holy shit,” Kayce moved quickly, rushing to you as your legs gave out and you collapsed in his arms. He was alarmed by the flush color of your skin, and your chapped lips. Your eyes looked glossed over as you looked up at Kayce. 

“I-I don’t feel,” Your words were slurred as Kayce hoisted you up in his arms. 

“I know, we gotta cool you down,” Kayce said to you, and you weakly nodded your head. 

Kayce moved you quickly to the bunkhouse, the first flash of cool air made you instantly shiver. He walked you to the bathroom, and you were thankful that the house seemed to be quiet, not wanting any of the other cowboys to see you like this. It was hard enough being one of the only females here, you didn’t need this to be held over your head. Kayce gently sets you down on the shower tile, reaching above you and barely turning the water on. The second the cold water hit your skin, you gasped.

“No! No!” You cried. 

“It’s okay,” Kayce cooed, “I have to cool you down.” 

“Please,” Tears were welling in your vision, and you weren’t really sure why you were crying. You summed it up to your body being in such shock, you didn’t have control over your emotions. 

“It’s okay,” Kayce said again, running a hand up and down your back as you leaned into him, feeling your body grow weak again, “You’re going to be okay. It’ll be okay.” You let out a whine as your body had shifted temperature, but welcomed the cool water against your warm skin. 

— — — 

You weren’t sure when you fell asleep or maybe you passed out, but you woke up in an unfamiliar bed, with a box fan pointed right at you. It took you a moment, your head pounding as you looked around the room, noticing the various country-esq landscape paintings and the giant deer head on the wall. It was nearing night time, or so you had guessed by the last remnants of the sunset peaking through the wooden blinds. You tried to sit up, but let out a groan instead, your head starting to swim and black spots filling your vision. 

“Y/N?” You froze as you heard Kayce’s voice from the other side of the door, “Can I come in?” 

‘Holy shit’ You cursed to yourself, ‘I’m in Kayce’s room.’ 

“Yeah,” Your voice was raspy, and you could still feel the sting of bile. 

Ever so gently, Kayce pushed the door to his bedroom open, sticking his head in first before coming all the way in, “Hey,” You nodded your head as he walked towards you, a glass of water in his hand and some tylenol, “Drink this and take these. It’ll help the headache and muscle cramps.” 

“How do you know?” You asked, taking the water and medicine. Now that he mentioned it, your legs felt heavier than normal with a slight ache to them. 

“They train you on the basics of heat stroke in the Navy,” Kayce said, “Seen one too many guys fall over.” You felt your cheeks pink up in embarrassment, “No one saw, if that’s what you’re worried about.” 

“Am I that transparent?” You said barely above a whisper, “You didn’t have to bring me here. They would’ve taken care of me at the bunkhouse.” 

“I know,” Kayce swallowed thickly. He wasn’t all too sure why he had picked you up and put you in his truck, driving back to his house for you to rest somewhere quiet and comfortable. But he did, and he didn’t regret it. He knew that he would’ve been a nervous wreck leaving you in the bunkhouse, “I needed to make sure you were going to be okay. . . You scared me.”

“I’m sorry,” You squeaked out. 

“Don’t apologize, Y/N,” Kayce said, shifting closer to you on the bed, “One of my first summer's running cattle with my dad, I did the same thing. We’d been out all day and came back, and the second I climbed off my hose I hit the ground. Face first in shit shavings,” You couldn’t help but chuckle, “At least you picked a clean stall to upchuck and pass out in.” 

You rolled your eyes, “Thanks for catching me.” 

“Always,” Kayce said, grabbing your hand. You glanced down between your hands and back up at Kayce, who had a slight blush on his face. He went to pull his hand away but you squeezed it and then laced your fingers with his.

[ilyasorokinn]

trouble seems to follow , kayce dutton

note, hey... i've never written anything for yellowstone on here (i have on wattpad) so I hope you all enjoy!! <3 I feel like this kind of trope is done so much, but I think it's sweet. this is loosely (heavily) inspired by that scene when beth fights that random woman hitting on rip. pair, kayce dutton x reader summary, whenever you go out, no matter the circumstances, trouble seems to follow you. warnings, bar fights, fighting, violence, cursing word count, 1168 words

(gif not mine)

Getting everyone to go out and away from the ranch was a task, but getting Kayce to go out was totally different. And you knew the only reason he agreed to go out was because it was your birthday.

"One drink?" You asked, a pleading look in your eyes that he tried hard to say no to.

"If I give in, then you're gonna just keep plying me with drinks." He shook his head, "I'm here, that's as good as it's gonna get."

"Kayce, it's my birthday. Come on, have some fun!" You urged him.

"No." He shook his head. You opened your mouth to argue with him again, but shut it after the look he gave you, "I'll have some soda, and keep an eye on you."

"You don't trust me?" You raised a brow at him.

"Not you, darlin'. Trouble just seems to follow you." He joked, kissing your head and handing your drink over to you, "Now go have fun. Enjoy the night." He nudged you towards the dance floor where everyone else was already dancing and having fun. You rolled your eyes but went in the direction he had pushed you in.

The night continued, and you were having fun, almost forgetting all about Kayce. When you did remember he was there, you remembered you also hadn't had any water, so you turned around to where he had been once sitting but froze when you looked up.

A woman who stuck out like a sore thumb amongst all the locals was standing pretty next to Kayce. The look on his face told you he couldn't care less about what she was saying, but he was playing along for appearance's sake.

You slowly approached them, a cautious look on your face as you tried to listen in on their conversation, "... I don't know, if the guys are as cute as you out here, I might just have to move out." She flirted shamelessly, batting her eyelashes at him.

Kayce looked uncomfortable as he nodded, "Right." He looked away from the glass of soda in front of him, and back onto the dance floor.

When he couldn't find you, he started to get nervous. He quickly spun around, trying to find you amongst the crowd, "Who're you looking for?" The woman tried to get his attention again, putting her hand on his arm, trying to get his attention again.

He ripped his arm out of her grasp and continued to look for you, "What the hell?" He muttered.

"You got a girlfriend or something." The girl tried to joke as if he hadn't mentioned you numerous times already.

"Wife, actually." Kayce's shoulders dropped when he heard that familiar voice he loved so much. The woman's attention quickly fell on you, and an almost unimpressed look fell on her face.

"Wife?" She scoffed.

"That's right." The look on your face was one Kayce knew all too well. The look on your face, the way your eyebrow slightly raised and your lips curved a little into something of a smirk.

"Oh, no." He muttered. He turned around, trying to get the attention of the other ranchers, but they were too far and the music was way too loud for them to notice him, "Whatever you're about to do, just think it through."

"What's she gonna do?" The woman scoffed, standing a little straighter with a look on her face that made you want to punch her, "I could easily take you."

"Oh, I'm sure." You tightened your fists, before winding up and punching her fight in the face before Kayce could stop you.

"Whoa!" Kayce shouted, trying to grab onto you but you pounced on the other woman, tackling her to the ground and straddling her, laying punch after punch.

As soon as you both hit the floor, a fight broke out all around you. Ranchers and tourists alike were going at each other, breaking beer bottles and punching each other.

Blood was flying and glass was shattering all around him, but all Kayce was focused on was getting you off the other woman. You were shouting things at her, she was shouting things back at you.

After trying to find a way to get you off without hurting you, he decided to just go in for it, "All right, that's it. Let her go!" Kayce grabbed onto your waist, just missing your elbow that you had thrown back to punch her again, and pulled you off.

"You crazy bitch!" The woman shouted, holding her bleeding nose.

"Calls coming from inside the house, sweetheart!" You shouted back. Kayce managed to carry you out of the bar even though you were wiggling and shouting. He didn't put you down until he made it over to his truck.

"What the hell was that?" Kayce asked. You simply shrugged, looking down at your knuckles and wincing at the blood and cuts forming, "No, don't shrug this off." He grabbed your chin and forced you to look into his eyes.

"Oh, come on, it's not like you were comfortable with it." You glared at him, shoving his hands away from you, "I was protecting your honor."

"You can't go around punching people in the face," Kayce told you.

"Yeah, well I'll remind you of that next time some guy hits on me." You raised a brow, and that got him to shut up, "Right." You smirked, throwing your arms around his neck and kissing him, "You alright?"

"Yeah." He nodded, wrapping his arms around your waist, "Thanks for protecting my honor."

"You're welcome. You're just too pretty." You joked, laughing when he rolled his eyes.

As the other ranchers and tourists alike started piling out of the bar, blue and red lights pulled up outside the bar as well. A few cops got out and Kayce pushed you behind him.

"Officer." He greeted the man with a nod.

"Mr. Dutton." The officer nodded right back, "Got a call about a fight. Something about your wife starting it."

"Fight? What fight?" Kayce asked, playing dumb and looking around. All the other ranchers shrugged innocently as well.

"No idea what you're talking about, sir," Lloyd spoke up.

"That crazy bitch attacked me!" The woman in question shouted, holding an ice pack to her nose.

"Is that true?" The officer asked, looking around Kayce's shoulder at you.

"No idea what she's talking about." You shrugged with a shake of your head.

"All right then." The officer nodded, "Apologies for the inconvenience. Y'all have a good night." He got back in his car and drove off.

"You all are fucking crazy." The woman muttered, walking off with her group of friends who you hadn't even known were there.

"You're gonna put me in an early grave, Trouble." Kayce joked, throwing an arm around your shoulders.

"Only if you don't put me in one first." You nudged him, "Now, let's go home. I've played nurse too many times for you, it's your turn."

"Yes, ma'am." He smirked.

-

add yourself to the taglist!

[pileofboneswrites]

IN THE WIND.

SUMMARY — loosely inspired by the song cheyenne by ian munsick. every year he never asks anything from you, resigned to the routine you've created; you pull into the yellowstone, park your trailer, and spend all your time with him, and then when august rolls around you pack it all in, and leave. this year, instead of dancing around the heartache, he [and a few others] ask you to stay.

PAIRING — fem!reader x lee dutton

WORD COUNT — 4.1k

WARNINGS — established friends with benefits type relationship, lee has been in love with reader since they met, pinning, allusions to smut, lee watches reader get dressed – reader puts on a show, no use of y/n — everyone calls her honey as a nickname, mentions of heartbreak, mentions of murder (not overly graphic), mentions of past abuse, angst

MASTERLIST | YELLOWSTONE

you put your truck in park, tucked along the side of the house like you always do. you open the trailer up, lead you horse peaches out into the fenced off area out front, and then wander up the front steps and into the house. you kick off your boots, and pad through the hallway, taking in the view from the living room windows. you enter the open concept kitchen, grabbing a beer and setting to work on tidying up. you start with the dishes, there aren't as many as there were last time.

next, you sweep, the build up of dirt he's tracked into the house has you frowning. after, you throw laundry in — your own clothes first of course. next is vacuuming, followed by grabbing the load of groceries from your cold box in your truck. lastly, you step into the shower, watching the setting sun as you deep condition your hair and shave your legs. when you wrap yourself in your towel you hear the front door open, a pair of boots falling heavily on the hardwood floor.

"honey," lee breathes out, a wide smile on his face as he steps into the warm room, and enveloping you in his arms, his lips latching onto your own.

"hi," you giggle, through pecks to your lips, followed by him slipping his tongue into your mouth.

you allow it for a few moments, relishing in his closeness. you untangle yourself from him, making him frown cutely at you. you give him a teasing smile, and peck him on the lips once more.

"i just swept, and washed those floors of yours, lee dutton. i'm not impressed," you slip past him in your bath towel, tsking at him as you go.

"i'm sorry honey, allow me to make it up to you," he says, a devious smile on his lips, as he follows you into his bedroom.

he catches you by the end of the bed, arms circling your waist as he pulls you flush with his chest. you look up at him throughout your eye lashes, and he bites his lip looking down into your eyes. he dips his head, resting his forehead on your shoulders, his lips ghosting over your collarbone. you want so badly to give in, but you have plans tonight.

"sorry cowboy," you murmur, pushing him away, turning towards his closet—where you keep a sizable amount of your clothes. "you need to shower, and get dressed."

"dressed? for what?" he groans dropping onto the end of the bed, slipping off his boots.

"the carnival? you promised tate last summer we'd be there to ride on the rollercoaster with him?" you say, glancing at him over your shoulder.

"you remember that?" he asks, rasing an eyebrow at you.

you giggle, dropping your towel to put on your underwear. lee moans quietly at the view of your naked body. you slowly pull them up, bending over to give him a full view of your bum. he sucks in a sharp breath, eyes never leaving your skin as you tease him.

you nod, "i do, and he's only text me about it everyday since – so y'know, it'd be hard to forget."

"yeah..." he agrees with you absentmindedly, eyes clinging to your chest as you twist your bra around your chest pulling it up. "hard to– hard to forget."

you make a show of putting your arms through the straps, and pulling the cups up. lee hangs off your every move, his fascination with your body not ending even with your boobs covered. his eyes rake up and down your figure, his eyes dark, and his bottom lip betweeen his teeth as he works through something silently. you feel smug with satisfaction as you step closer, slinging one leg over either side of his hips. you sit on his lap, wrapping your arms around his shoulders, bringing his attention back up to your face.

"baby," you whisper, lips ghosting over his.

"mhmm," he hums, hands landing on your hips.

"you promised,"

he nods, "i did,"

"but?"

his grip on your hips tightens, briefly, then retract.

"nothing, honey, i can wait." he leans in closer to your ear, "but tonight, i'm not going to be able to stop myself."

a shiver goes up your spine, goosebumps exploding over your arms. you missed that. he easily lifts you off his lap, setting you beside him. he stands, heading into the bathroom to shower, the door clicking closed calmly behind him. you sit there, surprised by his show of restraint. he doesn't normally do that, normally he would have had your face pressed into the mattress in a seconds notice. after taking a second to collect yourself, you stand up, and walk back over to the closet.

you pick out a dark green summer dress, a pair of brown cowboy boots in better shape than the ones you'd worn here. you grab a cardigan, and a cowboy hat that matches your boots. you then go back into the kitchen, and grab your cellphone from where you'd left it charging. two missed messages from monica dutton long.

hi aunt honey it's tate! excited to see you and uncle lee tonight rollercoster here we come!

hey, it's monica, just wanted to let you and lee know we'll be by the ticket booth. tate's very excited, see you at 9.

ten minutes pass, and lee is walking down the hallway. he's wearing a button that coincidentally matches your dress, his good hat and his best boots. he looks refreshed, the stress of the day washed away, and a easy smile on his face.

"well don't you look handsome," you smile, stepping into his embrace.

he kisses you deeply, your knees go weak, his arm sliding around your back steadying you. he smirks into your lips, and you pull back rolling your eyes playfully at him. you forgot how much you enjoyed being here, being with him.

"honey, you are the most beautiful woman i have ever met; dressed up like this, or covered in sweat and dirt from a long day."

your heartaches at his confession; it's temporary, you'll be gone again come the end of august. then the cycle continues. you smile, enjoy it now. lee's always been your favourite, it's why you keep coming back. he always knows what to say to make your knees weak, and how to break your heart.

"we'd better go," you say, ignoring the disappointment in his eyes as you walk away.

you're always walking away.

"i had so much fun!" tate yells, hoisting the matching bear to yours over his head.

"and now he's going to take forever to get to sleep tonight," monica laughs, "thanks for the sugar rush, aunt honey."

"pshhh, he'll crash the minute you get him in the truck." you reply, "and no problem, i live for these moments,"

"it was good seeing you, honey." monica says, pulling you into a hug.

"you too mon, we need to get coffee before i leave." you tell her, giving her a light squeeze.

"why don't you stay?" she asks, watching as tate makes a beeline for the truck, climbing into the backseat as kayce follows behind him, chatting with lee.

"i can't," you can't tear your eyes away from lee's back as he talks with his youngest sibling, which doesn't go unnoticed by his sister-in-law.

"why not? you and lee act like a married couple and besides; you're perfect for each other." her tone is gentle, like she's talking to an easily spooked animal.

"because..." you debate telling her the truth, the real reason you run every year, and your heart wins out over your rational thinking. "i know that he'll always be there this way, i don't think he'd want me if he had me fulltime."

"how could you possibly think that? lee looks at you like you personally hung the moon, sun and stars. he's so in love with you," she says, smiling softly at you. "you have to know that by now. he turns into a completely different person when you're gone."

"i know he is, i see it in the way he looks at me. i just– i'm terrified of ruining what we have. i'm not an easy person to love, i've been told that my whole life; i'm impulsive, stubborn, bossy, rude, selfish.... he doesn't deserve someone like that. he deserves someone who's sweet, and kind, and... good." you say, "someone like him."

"i don't know... the way you describe yourself; that's not the person i see. i see someone so full of love, and life, someone that helps others no matter what, honey, i've literally seen you give someone the shirt off your back. whoever's pumped your head full of that hate, was trying to convince you you're evil, when you're not. you're none of those things."

"i appreciate that, i'm not sure you're entirely right, but thank you." you shoot her a half smile, and squeeze her shoulder before you break away, walking towards lee's truck.

he meets you halfway, entwining your fingers, and pulling you closer.

he smiles at you, "that was fun,"

"i knew you'd have a good time,"

"thank you for making me come tonight,"

"thank you for winning me a big ass teddy bear," you reply, holding the giant black bear. "i love him, and i'm going to call him dusty,"

"dusty, eh?" he qestions, pulling your door open for you.

"do you have any better ideas?" you quiry, sliding into your seat.

he leans against the passenger door, his head tilted to the side as he thinks. after a few seconds he shakes his head, ducking down to kiss you once. twice. three times before closing the door and walking around to the drivers side.

"wanna grab a pizza on the way?" he asks, and you nod excitedly. "barneys?"

"barneys!" you say it at the same time, and he laughs, patting your left thigh.

three weeks later, you're sitting in one of the muskoka chairs up by the main house, a blanket over your legs as you and tate roast marshmallows.

"yours is burning!" tate says, pointing to your marshmallow.

"i love them burnt!" you reply, watching as it catches fire.

"that's weird," tate makes a face, "burnt ones are gross,"

"nuh-huh, they're the best!"

"no! golden ones are!"

"ewwww," comes lee's voice from behind the two of you, "marshmallows? gross!"

"i agree with you there," kayce says, from his chair across the fire pit.

"i second it, too sweet." john adds from beside kacey, and tate looks shocked.

"grandpa! you don't like marshmallows?"

john shakes his head, a disgusted look on his face.

"that's devastating," tate says, and monica lets out a snort of laughter.

"who taught you that word?" she asks, trying to keep a straight face as he stares her down.

"aunt honey, she says it a lot." tate shrugs, turning back to the fire.

monica gives you a quizzical look, as lee sits down beside you, between your chair and hers on your right side. so i don't say fuck in front of your kid, you mouth at her, and she nods in understanding.

"cause i'm trying not to corrupt you," you add, wrapping an arm around his shoulders to give him a quick hug.

"yeah, besides, his dad does a good enough job on his own." lee chuckles making kayce roll his eyes, and flip his brother off while tate's looking away.

"how long are you down for now?" john asks, when the conversation dies down.

your eyes snap to lee, who's looking staight ahead into the darkness. monica and kayce exchange a look before they both take turns glancing at you, and lee.

"uh, 'm not sure just yet," you say awkwardly, your shoulders tensing automatically.

you feel like a dear caught in the headlights. john nods, his attention being stolen by rip who materializes next to him. feeling like john just smacked you, you excuse yourself, wrapping your blanket around your shoulders, and making your way to lee's house. you sit out on the steps, thinking about what you were doing. i'm not good for lee. staying would be a mistake, it would ruin what we have. then i'd be all alone again. you're not sure how long you'd been sat alone, staring off into the dark when you hear lee's boots crunching gravel.

"you okay?" you ask him, and his eyebrows pull together in confusion.

"i'm fine, are you, okay?"

you force yourself to nod, "of course,"

he reaches out for your hand, and you immediately give it to him, allowing him to guide you up into the house. you shed your uggs, blanket, jacket, sweatpants and sweater, when you enter his bedroom. you crawl into bed, pulling the blankets up and waiting for him to crawl in next to you. he does, turning the lights off, and shimmying close to you. you rest your head on his chest, and even after you hear his soft snoring, you can't fall alseep. you lay there, eyes closed trying to sleep, but then the first ray of light speaks into the room.

before you know it, it's six am, and lee's softly shifting you over so he can go shower. you stare up at the ceiling, unmoving. the room is still dark, and when he steps out of the bathroom, towel around his hips, and his hair dripping wet. you pretend to be sleeping when he leans over the bed to give your temple a quick kiss, before he heads down to the bunkhouse. you lie there, staring up at the ceiling, your mind racing. you met lee at a bar in town when you were eighteen, you'd been passing through, on your way to your next race, when he'd caught your eye.

you ended up spending the month curled up in his sheets, praying that it would never end. but like all good things in your life, it did. you'd had a blow out fight about something ridiculous, and after he fell asleep that night you left. you found yourself passing through the following summer, part of you praying you'd see him again. and you did. he sat perched on a bar stool, chatting with rip and two other hands from the ranch. rip saw you first, a knowing smile on his lips, then the other two—who you later came to know as colby and ryan—their conversation fizzled out quickly.

lee had stood, ready to leave for the night, but when he twisted around on that bar stool, he saw you standing there. a smile broke out on his face, and the next thing you knew, you were face down on his mattress, and all was forgotten. it was a cycle that repeated itself for years, this being your tenth summer returning to yellowstone. you couldn't help yourself, there was just something so magnetic about him. you couldn't stay away even if you tried. you show up, play house, counting down the days until a fight breaks out and then you disappear like leaves in the wind.

this time something was different though. everyone around you seemed to be trying to get you to stay. you'd had conversations with kayce, beth, tate, monica and even rip. that was the one you kept rolling over the most. you'd had a similar childhood as he did, but instead of you ending things, your father took your mother and two younger sister's lives then his own. you were seventeen. the only things you had left after that, was your horse, peaches, your truck and trailer. other than some clothes, that was all. you were a traveller, rarely staying in one spot long enough to form any meaningful connections.

lee and the dutton's were an anomaly to that. maybe that was why you always came back, but you couldn't be sure. rip had intercepted you just before supper one night, and despite never having had a much of a real conversation (besides small talk) in your ten years as acquaintances, you sat and listened to what he had to say. rip being a man of few words, had talked to–well more like at you–for twenty minutes. in that time, he'd managed to make you really wonder if running was the best option. you can only run for so long, eventually you'll be too old too, and then what? what would you have to show for it?

you phone goes off on the nightstand, and you sigh, forcing yourself to sit up. monica dutton long. you hit answer, and greet her.

"sorry, were you sleeping?"

"no, no, you're fine. what can i do for you?"

"tate was hoping you'd be up for a ride, i've packed a picnic, and kayce and lee said they'd meet us for lunch."

"sure, that sounds fun," you smile softly, your head screaming, see? you'd miss this if you left. you always do. "i'll get peaches ready, and meet you down at the barn,"

"awesome, tate's already excited. see you down there,"

you hang up, and slide out of bed. your feet hit the hard wood floor, and you go through your routine. you brush your teeth, put on a ballcap, and then throw on a t-shirt, jeans and your boots. you grab a bag of the cookies you bakes yesterday, and jump onto the four wheeler lee leaves for you so you can get around the far without using your truck. over the years, you've noticed that lee gets weird about your truck. it's probably because anytime you go near it, you're usually hauling ass out of yellowstone. you blink away the thought, and head down towards the barn.

lloyd is standing in the bunkhouse doorway when you park the four wheeler, "coffee?"

"oh, yes please." you nod, and he disappears inside returning moments later with a mug for you. "thanks, lloyd."

"you're welcome sweetheart," he smiles at you, and the pair of you stand in a comfortable silence, enjoying your coffee. "y'know, it's nice seeing you around here again,"

the guilt you've felt since you stepped into lee's house flairs back to life, and you nod, forcing a small smile. you go to walk towards the stall's, and he catches your elbow pulling you back.

"i know you've heard it a lot since you got back," he says, staring you down, "but everytime you leave; it's like lee loses part of him... you know that saying, "behind every good man, there's a great woman"? lee needs his great woman around. he needs you around,"

your eyes fill with tears, and you're sobbing before you have much of a chance to try and keep yourself together. lloyd's eyes go wide, and if you weren't losing your mind, you'd have laughed. he guides you into the bunkhouse, closing the door behind him. you plop down at the table, and try to calm yourself. lloyd stares at you, waiting patiently.

"i'm sorry," you mumble, using the shoulder of your shirt to wipe your eyes. "i don't know why that happened,"

"i didn't mean to push you," lloyd tells you, a look of guilt in his eyes.

"no, oh god no, please don't. this isn't your fault. i just..." you trail off looking at your feet. "can i vent for a minute?"

he nods, pulling out a chair and sitting beside you, "please,"

"i come from a pretty fucked up family," you start, lee doesn't even know about what happened to your family. you liked it that way, because every time you give someone an insight into your background, their perspective changed and they started treating you like glass. "i mean, who's isn't? mine... well, mine is a different kind of fucked up. my dad snapped one night, murdered my mom, two baby sisters, and then killed himself. no one's really sure why he did it; he was abusive as shit, sure, but that– that was a kind of rage he never displayed before. he didn't leave a note, he just did it, and then shot himself in the head. go figure the old bastard went the easy way,"

you sigh leaning forward resting your head in your hands, "i started running that night. i'd snuck out to see a boy, and came home to find them all dead. i just took off. had i not snuck out, i would be just like them. i don't have friends, i don't have any family, i've tried to keep to myself but when i met lee... my desire to be isolated changed. i just wanted to be with him. when i'm not here, all i can think about is whether he's safe or not. he's all i think about, but... my dad made it incredibly clear to me growing up that i was a burdern, unlovable, worthless, a waste of space... that kind of thing is difficult to just forget. he told me that everyday, for seventeen years. the scariest part of it all, is that i have my father's rage. i don't want to be like him, but i'm terrified that if i'm too close, i won't see it and it'll be too late."

you look up at lloyd, tears in your eyes, "he told me i wasn't worth loving, and i believe him. i hate leaving, i'm tired of it, but i'm terrified."

someone clears their throat from the doorway, the pair of you jumping at the noise. you turn your head, and see lee standing there, clutching the doorknob so tightly his fingers turn white. lloyd clears his throat, and stands, leaning down only to give your hand a light squeeze. lloyd leaves, and lee closes the door. it takes four long strides before lee is pulling you to your feet by your elbow, and crashing his lips to yours. you're surprised by the action, but melt into his touch. when the pair of you pull apart, breathing heavily, he rests his forehead against yours.

"i love you," he breaths, "you are worthy of love, you deserve happiness, and you are good."

your eyes water, again.

"how do you know i'm not a monster?" you whisper.

"because i know you. you bake cookies when you can't sleep, you pick up spiders and take them outside instead of killing them despite the fact that you're terrified of them, you close your eyes every time you see roadkill because it makes you sad that an animal died, you'd sooner adopt every animal than see them suffer, cute animals excite you, you're scared of thunder but always put on a brave face for tate because you don't want him to freak out, you hold doors open for everyone, and pay for peoples groceries or meal if they can't afford it. you are light, you are warmth, you are so damn good."

you bury your face in his chest, sobbing uncontrollably as he holds you tightly. never in the ten years that lee has known you, has he ever seen your eyes water, let alone see you cry. someone knocks softly on the door, and then monica pokes her head in.

"oh, sorry– i was just going to ask if you guys were ready, but if now doesn't work–"

"no, now's good," you say, pulling your face away from his chest. "we were just–"

"she's staying," lee cuts you off, and she lets out an excited squeal.

"i have to tell kayce and tate!" she says, quickly disappearing.

you look up at him through red, swollen eyes, a teasing smile on your lips.

"i'm staying am i?" you ask wrapping your arms around his back. "'cause last i checked, you're the only one who hasn't asked me to stay."

"hasn't?" he echoes, an embarrassed look on his face as he looks down at you.

"oh yeah, your family was on me the minute i pulled in. you just happened to catch me in the aftermath of lloyd asking me."

"even rip?"

you nod, "especially rip. i think he had me convinced, but i wanted to hear it from you before i made my final decision."

he looks into your eyes, a serious look you've never seen before sliding over his features, "stay, please."

"okay," you whisper, not breaking eye contact, as his lips twitch up.

"marry me?" he says next, "please."

despite how badly he's caught you off guard, you find yourself immediately nodding, a wide smile crossing your face as he grabs you and spins you. you giggle, and he laughs, the pair of you hugging each other tightly.

"i love you," you tell him, "i love you so damn much, and i'm sorry for not you telling you sooner."

"it's ok, because we know now. that's good enough for me."

you nod, "me too."

[georgiapeach30513]

Weight of My Sins, Part 1

Summary: You thought life on the ranch was over. Couldn't bear the sight of Kayce anymore, so you fled all the way to Texas. You found a new relationship. You lived. You got a degree. But you missed Montana more than anything, but he wasn't leaving Texas. Now you're back on the ranch, and you and Kayce both lived your life. But that draw to him is still there, even if you're terrified to let those walls back down again. No matter how much you crave him.

Pairings: Kayce Dutton X Reader

Rating: mature

Warnings:  explicit language, 18+ ONLY

Word Count: 5.1K

Series Masterlist

*dividers created by @saradika-graphics

“Stop fidgeting,” Rip’s gruff voice bellows in the truck, and you press your hands under your legs.  Continuing to stare out your window.  The closer you get to the ranch the worse the feeling in the pit of your stomach gets.  This has got to be a bad idea, and nothing good can come of it.  You need a job just as much as you need a place to stay.  And Rip did you a solid in getting John to allow that for you.  Under different circumstances this would be the perfect solution to your problem.  

“You’re going to stay in the bunkhouse, so I’ll have to go over some ground rules with the wranglers,” you roll your eyes as you turn to look at him.  Ever the protective big brother role.  He isn’t your biological big brother.  Just a man that felt sorry for you as a kid, and helped out when he could.  You were his pet project.  And one of the few people he was kinda nice to.  Some things never change. 

“I don’t want you fucking around with them.  And believe me, they’re a bunch of lonely, horny cowboys.” 

“Aww, but you’re not interested in me.  Are you still lonely and horny?” He gives you an eat shit grin, shaking his head.  You are not the least bit worried about the wranglers.  They are the least of your worries.  “What if this doesn’t work out?” 

“Grow a pair of balls and make it work,” he shrugs as the ranch comes into view.  Immediately your fingers start fidgeting under your thighs.  So many memories remained here.  Up until the point that you left for veterinary school.  Anything to help out the ranch.  That’s Rip’s philosophy, even if he won’t say it.  Anything.

“Quit fidgeting!” He growls at you.

“I’m not!” You don’t want to admit that being here is turning your stomach inside out.  Don’t want to admit what just seeing the last name Dutton does to you.  Some things just are better left unexplored.  Especially now that you’re going into his territory.  His home.  

Rip puts the truck into park, and you inhale slowly.  Letting the fresh air fill your lungs before you slowly exhale.  Popping your neck for good measure before you sling the door open, and jump out.  Time seems to stand still here.  Very little has changed, except your age.  “Come on,” your adopted brother says, and you follow along with his long strides.  

Slinging the door open, Rip drops your meager duffle bag on the floor, and every man in there turns to glare at you.  Lloyd gives you a slight dip of his chin, “Welcome back, Bronc,” you nod to him.  The others you don’t truly recognize.  

“This here is like a little sister to me.  You treat her with fucking respect, and you stay out of her damn pants,” clearing their throats they return to their card game, leaving you puffing out a nervous breath before giving Rip a head nod.  “Yep. That’s it,” he says, turning on his heels, and leaving you in this den of bears.  

“Which bunk is available?” 

“One of those back ones,” Lloyd points in the direction without removing his eyes from his hand.  You didn’t expect a grand welcome, but this is pathetic.  Your eyes roam around each of the bunks.  Examining the spaces, looking for anything familiar. 

“He’s not here,” Lloyd answers, finally looking at you. 

“Who?” the old man’s eyebrows lift, as he nods at you sarcastically.  Judging asshole.  You weren’t looking for anyone.  You were trying to figure out how you fit in with these men.  Reaching into your bag, you stuff a few peppermints into your pocket.  You sling your duffle bag onto the bunk before turning to go towards the door, “I’m going out.” 

“Uh huh,” Lloyd answers knowingly.  You didn’t care what the man thought of you.  You need to get out of this room.  It’s stifling being in this bunkhouse.  Hell, it’s stifling being here.  With all these memories.  But ones that you love so much.  You miss it. 

Sighing at your contradictory thoughts, you kick gravel as you walk to the barn.  Getting away from humans, and joining animals.  They were better than humans.  They didn’t offer any words of wisdom, or judgement.  They are just there.  Lifting up a peppermint to one of them, he eats the treat off your hand, and you lean your head against his nose petting him.  

“First night here, and you’re already spoiling my horse, Bronc,” you didn’t have to see him to know that voice.  The one voice that makes you weak in the knees, and sick to your stomach all at the same time.  The one voice that has stuck to you like a bad habit, and you seek comfort in it with every sylablle. 

“Dutton,” you respond before starting to walk away.  He steps in front of you, and you turn to walk the other direction, but he jumps in front of you again.  His mouth turns up into that irresistible smile, and ‘it just makes you angry, and also makes you want to touch him.  The conflicting emotions just don’t stop.

“Why are you feeding my horse treats?” 

“Why are you hiding in the dark?” He shrugs.  A cute smile creeps onto his face, and you bashfully look away as heat flares your cheeks, “Did you follow me out here?” 

“No, I didn’t know you were going to be here.  Why are you here?” 

Somehow him not knowing you are going to be living here floods you with relief.  “This baby wanted a little treat, and I doubt you were giving him anything.” 

“You’ve not changed,” smiling, you let your eyes coast down his body, freezing at an ugly ring on his finger, and your blood turns cold.  Why is he even here giving you any ounce of hope?  He notices where your sight is, and hides his hand, but it’s too late.  Everything from that last night boils in your chest.  

“But you’ve changed,” you try to smile, and it just hurts.  You didn’t expect Kayce to not have a life and live it, but moving on with a wife is not what you expected.  

“It’s complicated,” is the only thing he says as he stuffs his hands in his pocket. 

“It always is with you, Dutton,” you respond, starting to walk away.  This time he doesn’t follow.  You can almost see him standing there with his pretty puppy eyes.  

“We’re separated,” you stop in your tracks, but don’t turn around.  Saying something like that is almost a death sentence.  Separated did not mean they weren’t going to get back together.  It could mean they needed space.  And you weren’t going to be the space he filled.  You sigh, turning to look at him.  

“Mmm, I don’t know if that’s good enough, Kayce,” his smile doesn’t falter.  You used his first name.  Using that name is so much warmer than using Dutton.  When you bring out the last name, he knows you’re slightly annoyed.  

Walking up to you, his calloused fingers brush over your cheeks, and he pulls you in for a familiar embrace.  Caressing your back as he brings you too close.  Like your bodies were made to meld together.  

“Don’t start something you can’t finish,” you respond, pushing out of his hold and you turn to give the horse a kiss.  

Your body is on fire.  Trembling as you take a step back from him.  His scent of sunshine and leather blinds you.  The want for him is almost too strong.  “What do you want?” 

He grunts, “You,” but you shake your head no.  Everything is always so damn complicated with him.  “We are separated.” 

“And yet, you’re still married.” 

“Do you think that if I was happily married I’d be out here after midnight?  I’ve moved back to the ranch, and we rarely talk, unless it has to do with,” his voice goes softer, and your eyes slowly close, “My son,” the twisting of that knife hurts so much worse than hearing he’s married.  “I never meant to hurt you.” 

“Yeah.  And I can imagine how it is with you.  You come here to be separated, and somehow you end up feeling sorry for yourself, and lonely, and then you're driving out wherever, and right back into her arms to play house.  Is that how it goes?” 

“Not exactly.” 

“Why is it different now?” There’s no answer that he could give you that would make you feel better.  You’re left feeling like a junkie, and your drug of choice is Kayce John Dutton.  Always was.  Probably always will be.  

“Because of you.” 

“Oh, no.  I just got here, and you don’t get to come here with your pretty words when I’m trying to do a damn job.  You and your cute ass need to keep things professional.  I don’t need this Kayce.  It’s my first night.” 

“So you don’t hate me?” You could never truly hate Kayce.  You could have your heart broken by him.  Again.  But you’ve never hated him. 

“No, but I’m also not fucking you,” he chuckles as you walk backwards, and out of the barn. 

“Again!” He yells, too loud, and you hope that no one hears the two of you out here alone.  You didn’t need any rumors going around about how you were fucking him in the barn on the first night.  

“It was a mistake,” you wink at him.  Lying in this instance is a way to protect you.  There’s nothing that you regret with Kayce.  Not on your end.  

“And why was it a mistake?” 

“Premature ejaculation,” he looks down at his feet, as he toes the ground, “Due to the fact that neither of us knew what we were doing.  But it sure did get us into a lot of trouble, huh?  Have a good evening, Dutton.” 

“That wasn’t nice,” he peeks up at you, smiling anyways.  

“Nice?  Was it nice that I saw you with some girl in our spot?  You sure were curled up, and enjoying her with your mouth.  Was that nice?” 

“Wait…” you have to rip the bandaid, and let him know that you knew what he was doing.  You should have confronted him then.  Maybe you could have truly moved on and healed.  Maybe you wouldn’t have longed for Montana, and those pretty brown eyes still. 

You shake your head, because you need space from him.  He is crowding your thoughts, and your vagina.  If you didn’t get away, you’d be rolling around in the hay with him.  “I get we were teenagers.  Too young to be fucking.  And too stupid to remain faithful.  

“So I’ll see you tomorrow?” 

“Like we have a choice,” he stands there smiling.  Not fully defeated by your words.  You weren’t bending to his words and charm, but you also weren’t refusing to talk to him.  “Don’t wear the ring.” 

“Whatever you say, Bronc,” you wouldn’t forgive him if he kept showing up with that ugly thing.  It pains you to know that he went off and married someone and had a child with someone that wasn’t you, and you couldn’t blame him either.  He’d moved on, and in so many ways you haven’t.  

You hope you don’t regret this decision to be here.  Hope that Kayce doesn’t infect your mind, and heart in the way he’s always done.  Knowing that he’s married, even if separated, helps.  And he has a kid.  Time didn’t change your feelings because you still ache for him.  

Separated.  

What did that even mean?  How did he define that word?

How long has he been separated?  Were his sweet words anything more than that?  Would he return to his wife?  He has a kid with her, so it’s not like he can just walk away easily.  Unless he already has.  But how can you be sure that this is it?  It’s the end and he’s never going to be with her again?  And if he was sure, why not going through a divorce? 

No.  You’re here to do a job, and doing a job is what you’re going to do.  You want to be treated just like everyone else on this damn ranch.  You weren’t going to become a love sick puppy for him.  You’re going to enjoy the Montana air.  The view here.  And finally doing something with your life.  And for you.

“Bronc and I are going to take the back,” Kayce smiles at Rip, and the older man’s eyes narrow at him.  

“Why?” he asks, giving you a quick look as you saddle up a horse, ignoring the conversation.  You’ll go where you’re told.  “Why are you bringing up the rear, and why is she even coming out with us?” 

“Because if something happens, we have a licensed vet right with us.  She’s bringing up the rear because she’s never gone out with us before, and this will give her a chance to learn.” 

Rip places his hands on his hips, gazing out to the sunrise, sighing, “I’m still not sure why you’re with her.  Put Jimmy in the rear with her, and — why the hell are you shaking your head at me?” 

“She doesn’t know Jimmy.” 

“And yet she sleeps in the bunkhouse with him,” Kayce clears his throat, and only because the last place that he wants you to be is with Jimmy. “What the fuck is your problem?” 

“Bronc and I are taking the rear.  Jimmy’s got flank.  Is the bunkhouse really the best place for her to be?” 

“Hell, Kayce, she’s not going to learn anything by getting special treatment,” you aren’t getting special treatment from him.  He just wants to make sure you stay comfortable, and be with him.  He needs more time to talk to you.  “Fine,” Rip growls, getting on his horse.  “She’s your responsibility then.” 

“I’ll try to keep her out of trouble.” 

Rip turns his horse around and heads towards the front, “Bronc, you're with Kayce in the back,” you sigh, climbing onto the horse.  Kayce gives you a wink as he climbs on his own, and waits for you. 

“You’re not subtle, you know?” He shrugs, and you can’t help but take a peek at his hand.  The ring thankfully is gone.  He kept his word.  And while it does ease your stomach, there’s still a part of you that knows that still isn't enough.  It’s easy to not wear a ring in private.  It’s easy to pretend it doesn’t mean a thing, but it does.  It should. 

“Are you planning on making sure we’re always together?” He shrugs again.  He’s the one that wanted you in the rear with him, and now he’s not talking.  But maybe you’re just not asking the right questions.  “So how have you been?” 

“Doesn’t matter.  I’m better now,” you scoff, keeping your eyes on the cattle.  “What?  Is my response not satisfactory?  Remember you left Montana.” 

“And you had your hands in some other girl's pants.” 

He winces, sucking air through his teeth, “Are you ever going to let me explain, so I can maybe get your forgiveness?  I told you I was stupid?” 

“Are you ever going to do it again?” 

“Are you ever going to go on a date with me?” 

“Not anytime soon,” you click your tongue, and tap your heels on the horse.  Speeding up a bit more, but he keeps his pace with you.  “Things can’t go back to how they were,” you wonder if he thought any relationship can return to how they were before, or if you’re just the lucky one.  Did he still carry a torch for you, like you did him?  

“So no more sneaking off into my room, doing things we were too young to be doing?” Him and his stupid little smile get you every time.  Not to mention the passion you always felt with Kayce.  You were never going through the motions, you loved every moment with him.  Even your fights that quickly were resolved, and you went on loving each other anyways, and loving harder.  

“Why did you leave?” His voice darkens, and he turns his face away from you.  

“I needed air,” he nods, understanding.  You needed to get away from him.  “Why did you do it?” 

“Kiss someone that wasn’t my girlfriend?” 

“You weren’t just kissing.” 

“Yeah, that’s all we did,” you shake your head no.  That is not what she implied happened.  And just kissing is enough anyways.  “It was stupid.  And I quickly realized that she wasn’t you, and did I say that I was stupid?” 

“You did,” you look over towards him, smiling, “But you can keep saying it,” a comfortable silence settles between the two of you, and you breathe in the fresh mountain air.  Realizing all the reasons that you missed Montana, but also the Yellowstone.  Things are peaceful in their way, of course, but there’s just this home feeling here.  

“Did you miss it?” 

“Do you mean did I miss you?” You turn to peek towards Kayce, and he chuckles, shaking his head.  

“I asked if you missed it as in this?” 

“Every day,” you enjoyed school, and you would do it all over again for the experience, and to say you have a skill.  You did miss some of the people, and now that you’re here you miss some of the people in Texas.  One of the people. 

“What did — did you — I mean,” he clears his throat.  Looking up to the clear blue sky, before back over towards you.  You already know exactly what he’s struggling to ask, and it’s due to the fact he doesn’t really want to know.  “How was Texas?” 

“You want to ask me the real question?” sometimes it’s best to just know the truth, and lay it all out there.  Even if you’re scared to know the answer.  You can learn ways to cope or just get over it. 

Kayce sniffs deeply, and tilts his head to the side in thought, “Did you meet anyone there?” Not the right question.  He’s such a coward. 

“Cowboy up, Kayce.  You can do better than that if you really want to know.  Just ask me like a man.” 

“Are you dating anyone?” 

“No.” 

“Did you?” 

“Was that so hard?” Surprisingly he nods his head.  He can respond but just asking was like pulling teeth, and it kinda gave you a bit of a confidence boost.  “I did.  Was.  I was dating someone.  It was pretty serious, but he wanted to stay in Texas, and I wanted to be back here.  We split amicably, and I packed up my stuff, moved out, and now I’m back here.” 

“What was he like?” His jaw flexes when he asks.  He doesn’t truly want to know what he is like, but you’re going to tell him anyway.  Kayce always had a possessive streak.  It never reached toxic heights, thankfully. 

“He’s a mechanic.  Older than me.  He’s a good guy.  He didn’t have much growing up, but he made something of himself, despite his setbacks,” Kayce just nods his head, refusing to look at you.  You like seeing him squirm a bit.  Not that you’re into comparing, but you didn’t have a child with him, nor were you married.  “I think you’d like him.” 

“Not likely.”  

“He played football.” 

“Definitely wouldn’t like him then.  Let me guess, he’s just a regular ole pretty boy that treated you okay, but it wasn’t great?  Maybe borderline annoyed you?” 

“He’s a good guy.  We were getting to a more steady part of our relationship.  It wasn’t too exciting.  And we never fought,” Kayce snorts, causing you to look towards him.  “We didn’t.” 

“Sounds like there was no passion.” 

“You mean it doesn’t sound like us?” 

“We’re adults now, Bronc.  We’re not going to act like two lovestruck teenagers anymore.  We were figuring ourselves out.  We didn’t know the meaning of compromising.  Now we’re grown,” no, you weren’t teenagers anymore.  He’d definitely grown.  At times you and Kayce just didn’t want to see eye to eye.  There was absolutely no compromising in your relationship.  So him admitting that makes you feel happy.  You left something steady, albeit boring at times, because the two of you couldn’t compromise on where to live.  He wasn’t leaving Texas, and you wanted to be in Montana.  

“So just how boring was this guy?” 

“Tell me about your son,” you counter.  Kayce smirks while looking up ahead to the herd.  You aren’t supposed to go out with them often, but you wanted to see the land again.  “How old?” 

“He’s eight.” 

“You didn’t waste any time did you?” 

“He wasn’t planned, and I was distraught.  I don’t regret him though.  He’s perfect.  Reminds me of myself.” 

“Did you love her?” He goes silent.  His puppy dog eyes scan over everything as he contemplates.  “I think I loved him,” Kayce turns to look at you, his smile now returning.  “What?” 

“Did you ever tell him?” 

“Yes.” 

“So did you lie?” It’s an odd thing to say, really.  It shouldn’t be hard for you to admit that yes you loved him or no you didn’t.  It felt right at the time but hindsight is always twenty twenty.  Now, you’re unsure just how you felt about him, “So what you mean is you didn’t love him like you loved me?” 

“No,” definitely not what you meant.  Right?  All those years weren’t a lie.  You had fun.  You enjoyed yourself.  You loved, and felt loved, and — so easily left it for here.  And Kayce.  “I didn’t say that.” 

“You didn’t have to,” he looks towards you, slowing his horse down, but your mind is racing too much to try and look at him.  You need space again, and yet have to stay.  You want to run, but towards him or away from him?  You knew that the forever there complicated feelings towards Kayce would return the moment you saw him, but you weren’t prepared for this.  And if you left again, those feelings would remain.  Eventually you’ll have to explore those feelings.    

Questioning your relationship was not something you had planned.  You loved him, but could live without him.  It’s why you chose to come here.  Back home.  And to him.  So why is it so hard to admit that out loud, and to Kayce.  Why does this man crowd your brain space, and make you question every decision you’ve ever made. 

The only reason you left Montana was to get space from him.  You needed to breathe and make sense out of everything going on.  And to find yourself without him in it.  Without anyone in your life.  To know you could do it.  Kayce was supposed to give you time to figure this out.  You could have a life out of this bubble.  

This beautiful, amazing bubble. 

“Why did you come back?” 

“This is the place that has always felt like home.” 

“Because it’s where I’m at,” he sure is cocky.  Brazenly full of himself.  Part of this being home is him.  But that doesn’t mean that you are referring to him as home.  It means… “You can deny it all you want, but…” 

Kayce clicks his tongue, and starts a faster gallop, leaving you contemplating what he said.  It’s what he does.  He weasels into your brain, and makes you think and question things.  And then he finds himself in your pants, and then in your heart.  But that isn’t the concerning thing, the concerning part is not fully knowing if he is correct.  And do you want him there?  

“You know what I always liked about that girl?” Kayce looks up at his dad, confusion laced in his eyes.  “She never tried to change you.” 

“Who?” 

“Oh, are you still denying that you had a thing with Rip’s little orphan project?” Instead of responding, his son takes another bite of food.  The two of you weren’t exactly quiet about your feelings for one another, but you also didn’t parade it around.  “I see.  So she comes back to town, being hired on as a personal vet or wrangler, I can’t keep up.  And the first thing she does is go on the trail with you, and rides right beside you?  Okay.” 

John eats a piece of meat, smiling at his son who still says nothing.  “You speak more when she’s around.” 

“Are we going to talk about Bronc this whole dinner?” 

“Still got that same nickname for her.  How do you feel about her sharing a bunkhouse with a bunch of men?” Kayce despises it.  Hates even thinking about someone getting too close to you.  He’d offer for you to stay with him, but you’d immediately jump to conclusions.  You could sleep where you wanted to, but he did have an extra room.  “I see.  Must make you sick to think about all those cowboys around fresh meat. We know Bronc can take care of herself.  But she did just get out of a relationship because he didn’t want to take things to the next step.” 

“He didn’t want to move to Montana.” 

“Where she wanted to get married, and settle down with him,” John shrugs as he wipes his mouth with his napkin.  “She’s quite vulnerable.  Don’t push her, but don’t have her too far away from you,” he nods as he pushes his chair back from the table.  “You should offer her some of the food Gator made.  I’m sure it’s better than whatever microwave food she’s got there.” 

—

There is a lot of freedom being here.  However, the food sucks.  You’ll have to remedy that soon.  Sitting out on the porch, you kick up your feet, and inhale deeply.  Letting the mountains absorb your problems.  Hope that they will, so you have some clarity.  

Even with everyone in the bunkhouse carrying on and playing a game of poker, you feel relaxed.  Today felt good.  You didn’t exactly know what your job here would entail; maybe you’d need to travel to some other ranches and tend to their animals.  But tonight, it’s just you.  And the annoying music coming from somewhere.

You won’t let it bother you.  

You don’t care if it’s annoying ‘country’ music.  What even is that shit?  Nope.  It won’t bother you.  You’ll just sit and eat your microwave Mac and cheese, and ignore whatever is going on over there.  This is your bubble.  Your safe space.  You are calm and collected.  Not annoyed at all.

That music is just very obnoxious, and you swear it’s getting louder.  You could ask them to be quiet.  You don’t even know whose cabin it is.  Someone that works here, obviously.  But it’s like they're purposefully trying to get under your skin.  

You sigh as you stand up stretching.  Going inside the bunkhouse would involve you trying to ignore the wranglers.  While not impossible, you’re now more curious as to who is being obnoxious.  It won’t hurt to go check it out.  

Making sure to throw your garbage away, you start to head towards the door, “I wouldn’t do that if I were you,” Lloyd calls after you, but you don’t listen.  Don’t even turn around.  You have some exploring to do.  

You have to know.  Need to know who it is.  You don’t have far to walk judging by the sound.  It’s close.  Far enough away from the bunkhouse for some privacy.  There’s nobody here that would hurt you.  There could be other things that could be dangerous. 

“What are you doing out alone?!” You spin around, and hit him due to your veins coursing with  adrenaline.  “Ow, you still got an arm on you,” Kayce winces, rubbing his arm. 

“Why the fuck are you sneaking up on me in the middle of the night?” Whisper screaming as you hit him again.  “What is wrong with you, and what is the deal with this shitty music?” 

“So the music worked?” You stare at him dumbfounded, trying to figure out what he’s meaning.  “It got you over here, didn’t it?” 

“You ass, Kayce Dutton.  I was minding my business, eating dinner, and looking at the stars.” 

“Your dinner wasn’t good enough,” you have to look away when he licks his lips.  Causing every fiber in your body to heat up.  Being with him alone in the dark is a sure fire way to get you in trouble.  You’re resisting the urge.  You could fall for Kayce again, just not tonight. 

“Yeah, and what are you going to do about it?” 

“I brought a plate from the lodge,” bare minimum.  Don’t fall for this.  This is barely anything.  You want him to work if he wants to get you back.  And you know you shouldn’t rush into anything serious.  With Kayce it will be serious.  “I can heat it up.  We can dance, talk, watch a movie, sit out here?” he smiles sheepishly, shrugging his shoulders. 

“We’re not dancing to this shit.” 

“Of course not.” 

“And I don’t think dancing is something we should do,” he nods his head yes, agreeing to that.  “We can sit out and stare at the stars, and I’m going back to the bunkhouse.” 

“I have an extra bed.” 

“But I won’t stay in it.”

“Why’s that?” Kayce steps too close to you, invading your bubble, and it’s hard to breathe.  Be strong.  Do not fall for this.  If you want to be with Kayce the wait will be worth it.  You want to be able to give you and him the best possible chance.  Start from the beginning. 

“Because I am weak when it comes to you, and I don’t want to be.  So my happy little ass will walk right back to that bunkhouse, and I’m going to sleep there.  And tomorrow is a new day, and you’re going to stop flirting so hard.” 

“I can try and do that,” his hand brushes away the baby hairs off your forehead, and you fight not to lean into him.  Glancing down to his left hand, you count this small moment as a win.  

“Thank you,” you whisper to him before spinning around, and walking towards the cabin. 

“Why?” 

“If I have to tell you it doesn’t have the same gravity,” he smiles serenely before jumping in front of you to open the door.  He’s had that ugly ring off twice now.  It’s a small thing that should not mean much, and yet it does.  You just hope that he keeps it off.  Because you can’t handle another heartbreak like that.

Next

Masterlist

@tis-thedamn-season @theinheriteddutchess

[multifandomworldsposts]

KINKMAS DAY 4: Slutty Pics

pairing: kayce dutton x fem!reader

warning: neck kisses, unprotected sex (pls be careful!!)

3RD PERSON’S POV

She sent him something, something interesting. He checked his phone, it’s a picture, a slutty picture, he’s going to go home to see why she sent him a picture like this while he’s working.

When he got home, he sees her in what she sent him several minutes ago, a black lacey lingerie, he wanted her, wanted her bad. He went up to her to make her go to the wall, she already knew what will happen to her when she sent the picture of her.

He picked her up to take them to their bedroom, he sets her on the bed and he unzips the back of her lingerie to make her take it off and make him see her nude body.

He begins to kiss her neck, to make her giggle at the way he kissing her. She makes him look at her and then she begins to kiss him and she pulls him onto her body, he pulls her to hug her and takes them to the pillows.

She helped him out of his clothes so they could do something that they haven’t done in a while because of them working all the time.

They make love for hours. The way he went in and out of her, the way she moaned and gasp at the way he did it.

After a while, you can hear heavy breathing by them being done with what they’re doing.

‘I hope I can wear lingerie once in a while.’ She thought in her head.

[moonlight-joy]

Family Ties

Fandom: Yellowstone

Request: @little-pink-demon00 - A fic where Reader is Lee’s daughter but was adopted and raised by John and Evelyn (because Lee had her when he was young). And one day Jamie or Beth get pissed and spill the secret of who reader’s birth parents are. Angst happens, and ends with Kayce or John comforting reader.

Pairing: None

The Yellowstone Ranch kitchen still felt suffocating, the echo of Beth’s words ringing in the silence long after she stormed out. The weight of her revelation pressed down like a vice, your chest tightening with each passing second. John’s presence, usually so steady and commanding, felt different now. He looked tired, older somehow, as he sat across from you at the kitchen table.

The silence stretched on until you couldn’t bear it anymore. “Why?” The single word slipped from your lips, trembling and raw. “Why didn’t anyone tell me? Why let me live a lie?”

John leaned back in his chair, his broad shoulders sagging as he ran a hand through his graying hair. “Because we weren’t trying to hide the truth from you—we were trying to protect you from it.”

“Protect me from what?” Your voice rose, anger and confusion mixing with the ache in your chest. “From knowing where I came from? From knowing my father—Lee—didn’t want me?”

John’s jaw tightened, his eyes flashing with the kind of steel that only a man like him could muster. “Lee wanted you,” he said firmly. “Don’t you ever think otherwise. He loved you, but he was young—barely more than a boy himself. He was scared, and he didn’t know how to raise a child. So Evelyn and I stepped in.”

You blinked back tears, the weight of his words sinking in. “And my mother? What about her?”

John’s expression darkened. “She wasn’t ready either. She left Montana not long after you were born. Never looked back.”

The words stung, cutting deep even though you’d never known the woman. “So you just… decided to take me in? Pretend like I was yours?”

“We didn’t pretend,” John said, his voice softening. “You are mine. From the moment you came into this house, you were my daughter. I don’t give a damn what blood says. I raised you. I taught you how to ride, how to stand your ground, how to fight for what you believe in. You’re as much a Dutton as any of us.”

His words stirred something inside you—a flicker of the love and security you’d always felt in this family. But the confusion and hurt still loomed large, threatening to swallow you whole. “Does Kayce know?” you asked, your voice trembling. “Does everyone else know who I really am?”

John hesitated, and in that brief pause, you got your answer. “Beth and Jamie know,” he admitted. “Kayce doesn’t. And Lee—he wanted to tell you, but before he could…” His voice trailed off, the unspoken truth hanging heavy in the air.

Before Lee died.

Hours later, you found yourself sitting by the firepit outside, the vast Montana night stretching endlessly above you. The stars were so bright they almost didn’t seem real, but even their beauty couldn’t quiet the turmoil inside. The truth felt like a wound that wouldn’t stop bleeding, each new thought reopening it.

Footsteps crunched softly on the gravel behind you, and Kayce appeared, his silhouette illuminated by the flickering firelight. He carried two steaming mugs, offering one to you as he settled into the chair beside you.

“You look like you could use this,” he said, his voice low.

You took the mug gratefully, the warmth seeping into your hands. “Dad told you?” you asked, not looking at him.

“Yeah,” Kayce said simply. He leaned back in his chair, staring into the flames. “He told me everything.”

The silence between you was heavy but not uncomfortable. It felt like Kayce was giving you the space to speak first, to sort through your tangled thoughts. Finally, you broke the silence.

“It’s like everything I thought I knew about myself… isn’t real anymore,” you said, your voice shaking. “I thought I was John and Evelyn’s daughter. I thought I belonged.”

Kayce turned to you, his expression soft but resolute. “You do belong. Nothing’s changed that.”

“How can you say that?” you asked, your voice breaking. “I’m not even really a Dutton. I’m just some mistake Lee made when he was a teenager.”

“Don’t say that,” Kayce said sharply, his voice cutting through the quiet like a blade. “You’re not a mistake. You’re family. You’ve always been family. Blood doesn’t make a Dutton—it’s loyalty, and heart, and standing with the people you love no matter what. That’s who you are.”

Tears welled up in your eyes, and you quickly wiped them away, but Kayce wasn’t done.

“Do you know what Dad said when Tate was born?” he asked, his voice softening again. “He said being a father isn’t about who shares your blood. It’s about who shows up, who stays, who fights for you when it matters. And he’s shown up for you every day of your life. We all have.”

His words wrapped around the ache in your chest, soothing it like a balm. “I just… I don’t know how to feel,” you admitted. “I’m angry, and sad, and confused all at the same time.”

“That’s okay,” Kayce said. “You don’t have to figure it all out tonight. But don’t let what Beth said make you doubt who you are or where you stand. You’re one of us. Always have been, always will be.”

For a while, the two of you sat in silence, the crackle of the fire filling the space between you. Then Kayce spoke again, his voice quieter this time. “Lee would’ve been proud of you, you know.”

You turned to him, your heart tightening. “You think so?”

Kayce nodded. “I know so. He might’ve been young, but he loved you. And if he could see you now—the way you carry yourself, the way you fight for this ranch and this family—he’d be proud as hell.”

The tears you’d been holding back spilled over, but this time, you didn’t wipe them away. Kayce stayed beside you, his quiet presence steady and comforting. For the first time that day, the weight on your chest felt a little lighter.

Later, back in the house, John found you sitting at the kitchen table, the same spot where he’d told you the truth. He didn’t say anything at first, just sat down across from you and poured himself a glass of whiskey.

“I know today was hard,” he said finally, his voice low and steady. “But I want you to know something.”

You looked at him, waiting.

“You’re my daughter,” John said, his eyes locking onto yours with a fierce intensity. “I don’t care what Beth or anyone else says. I’ve loved you like my own since the day you were born, and nothing’s ever going to change that.”

The emotion in his voice broke something loose in you, and you leaned forward, resting your head in your hands as tears spilled freely. John reached across the table, his large, calloused hand covering yours.

“Family isn’t about blood,” he said softly. “It’s about showing up. And no matter what happens, I’ll always show up for you.”

In that moment, with John’s hand steady on yours and Kayce’s words still echoing in your mind, you realized that while the truth had shaken you, it hadn’t broken you. This was your family—messy, complicated, and flawed—but yours. And that would never change.

Please support my work with like and comment

[misquoted-chronicles]

Sheriff: I'm pulling you over because you were trying to fit three people on a horse.

Lee, with Y/n and Kayce sitting behind him: Wait, three?

Sheriff: Yes, you and the two-

Y/n: JAMIE FUCKING FELL OFF?

[romaevelizz]

Sandpaper ˖ ࣪⊹

Carter Dutton-Wheeler & oc!Crystal Maverick

1.) Miss Mav

sum: June had finally started meaning people would be coming and going from the ranch. Carter was excited to watch cowboys come and go from the ranch. Little did he know he’d be meeting a family friend that would be staying for the summer. The bunkhouse quickyly giving him shit for his little girl crush, little did he know just how close this family friend was.

warnings: cursing, Orginal characters! non-canon storyline! Not thoroughly proofread.

The sun had not yet begun to rise, casting a soft, dusky light over the rugged mountain peaks, but Carter was already awake and preparing for the day ahead. The scent of coffee mingled with the aroma of sizzling bacon wafted through the air as the bunkhouse came to life. The morning air was filled with a quiet anticipation, and conversations were just starting to bubble up among the occupants. Carter moved through the small, cluttered space, collecting his thoughts and his breakfast. He glanced at his bunkmates with a hint of amusement. Teeter was playfully flirting with Colby, herthick accent ringing out like a bright chime, while Colby, his cheeks flushed with joy, grinned from ear to ear, clearly enjoying the attention. In another corner, Lloyd and Ryan were engaged in their usual banter, teasing Jake mercilessly as they sipped their steaming cups of coffee. Carter couldn’t help but chuckle at their antics, feeling a warmth in his chest as camaraderie filled the room.

The atmosphere shifted slightly as Rip made his entrance, his presence commanding immediate attention. A hush fell over the bunkhouse as everyone turned to see what was planned for the day. He moved purposefully, and when he reached Carter, he offered a reassuring pat on the shoulder. It was a simple gesture, yet it spoke volumes about their relationship. Carter met Rip’s gaze with a grateful smile, in many ways, Rip had become more of a father to Carter than his biological dad ever was. With every shared moment and every word, Rip had given Carter a sense of belonging and support that he had longed for. As the day began to unfold, Carter felt a deep sense of gratitude for this second chance ata life.

“Alright, well be having people coming in today I need bout, four stalls cleaned and set up,” he spoke up his gaze shifting to Carter as he said the last part. “We have family coming in needles to say, some of y'all know 'em and some of ya will just be meeting them. They're guest of Mr. Dutton treat them with respect.” he finished off the team nodding.

Carter cast a wary glance around, trying to gauge who was approaching. Rip had just wrapped up giving orders, and one by one, the others began to disperse, their footsteps echoing against the ground. With a sense of purpose, Carter moved to the stable, quickly getting to work on saddling the horses. As he tightened the girth and adjusted the stirrups, the distant rumble of a truck engine broke the stillness, its sound growing louder as it drew nearer. Finally seeing the truck it wasn't just one but two, two GMCs pulling horse trailers, one black, the other white. He let out a low whistle at the nice trucks. His eyes wandered curiously his gaze being shaped away hearing Rip yell at him.

“Boy! I need them stalled cleaned, get on it!” Rip hollered getting off his horse.

Without a moment's hesitation, Carter made his way directly to the stalls. The air was thick with the earthy scent of hay and the faint sound of rustling hooves. He rolled up his sleeves, he began to clear away the old bedding, gathering clumps of straw and manure into a wheelbarrow. The warmth of the sunlight filtering through the open barn door cast a golden hue on the wooden beams as he meticulously cleaned each stall, ensuring that everything was fresh and tidy for the animals that would stay in them. He heard the unfamiliar voices of people talking, the sound of hoves entering the barn getting louder before he stepped out of the stall. He Came face to face with a teenage boy his age, an older guy and Rip, bringing in three horses.

“This is Carter, he's mine,” Rip spoke half introducing him.

“Hello.” Carter smiled at the two.

“Hey! I'm Micheal, you can call me Mikey.” the younger boy introduced himself shaking Carter's hand. Mikey was pretty tall bout six feet like himself, he was black, his hair short clean fade on the sides but a hat backward on his head covering the small pit of hair he had on top. He seemed to be pretty strong a tone build not too skinny but a bit smaller than Carter. He wore a black tee shirt with a logo that Said ‘Maverick ranches’ inside a star, and some washed-out wranglers and boots.

“I am Elijah Maverick, his father. Thank you for cleaning up for us we got two other horses to bring in.” he smiled shaking the boy's hand. Now that was a big Man. He easily made Carter nervous though he was nothing but kind and even smiled at him, He was taller than his son and Rip maybe bout six-three, a dad-built with huge shoulders and arms he was muscular, to say the least. The Tan button-up shirt his sleeves rolled up with a different logo that Said Maverick Ranch kind of reminded him of the top gun logo but kinda different, but it was black showing the tattoo sleeves on his arms.

“Its a pleasure to meet you guys, do you need help with the other horses.” Carter asked wanting to be helpful.

Elijah let out a small chuckle at his eggness “No its alright, My daughter and her friend are out on them helping your cowboys for fun.” he spoke shaking his head.

He had a daughter? He thought meeting Mikeys eyes he asked “She older?”

Mikey scoffed “ She’ll tell you she is but only by like— seven minutes.” he rolled his eyes.

“Shes your twin? Wow that's cool.” Carter grinned.

“You could say” Mikey smiled, “you ride man?”

Carter nodded “Nice maybe you could show us around a bit haven't been here since we were kids.” Mikey explained.

“Sure id love too, but I don't get off till later this evening.” Carter shrugged.

“Hey no worries! We got some work to do, my sister in ropeing this summer so we got errans to run.”

She Ropes! The phrase hinted that she might rodeo a bit. The conversation between the three faded, and they stepped outside, with Carter trailing closely behind. He strolled toward the fence, where he could see them skillfully herding the cattle. His attention was immediately captured by an impressive all-black gelding, which glided smoothly across the landscape. Sitting atop the horse was a dark toned girl whose long, mixed-color braids of different browns and blonds were woven into a single, thick braid thatmoved as she maneuvered with practiced ease. She commanded the horse effortlessly, guiding the cattle with precision. She wore of a snug pink t-shirt with a Maverick Ranch logothe shirt highlighted her curved frame, paired with light-washed boot-cut True Religion jeans that hugged her legs comfortably. A pair of boots on her feet, complementing the rugged ensemble. Cinched around her waist was a stylish belt, adorned with a gleaming buckle—perhaps a trophy from a recent victory.

As Carter's gaze shifted to her face, he couldn’t help but notice how striking she was. A wide, radiant smile lit up her features, radiating confidence as she worked the herd. Her youthful appearance was enhanced by several piercings; both nostrils and ears displayed shimmering gold jewelry that suggested a sense of maturity. On her head was a light tan felt hat, which she adjusted with a quick flick of her hand as she turned to listen for her name being called in the distance.

“Well shit miss. Mav you can cowboy better than Jake here!” Lloyd complimented the young girl.

Her laughter bubbled up, bright and infectious, and it brought a small, genuine smile to Carter's face.

“Crystal, mere!” he heard a deep voice say next to him.

She quickly made her way over the fence, “Hi daddy!”

“Hi baby, wanna intriduce you to Carter, take it you met some of Rips new boys.”

She hummed nodding her head “But this is Carter, he Beth and Rips kid.” he spoke.

Carter watch as she raided a brow “They took me in.” he spoke up clearing her confusion.

“Ohhh- that makes a bit more since, Nice to meet you Carter! I'm Crystal, how old are you?” she asked quickly.

“Im 16 turn 17 in july.” he said.

“Nice! Bit older than Tate.” she spoke.

Her head looked over her shoulder again “Sorry I started helping them wanna finish up before I come out! But again it's nice to meet you good to know there are kids our age here so I wo t be stuck with those old farts.” she giggled motioning towards Lloyd and Jake.

He nodded “No worries I get it I gotta get back to work myself, nice to meet you Ma'am.”

She flashed him a radiant smile one final time before returning to her work, a gesture so warm and genuine that it felt contagious. Carter couldn’t help but feel the corners of his mouth tug upwards into a grin. The brightness of her expression seemed to light up the room, and perhaps it was a tad too apparent, as he caught Lloyd’s gaze across the space. Lloyd was watching him with a knowing chuckle, the corners of his lips twitching in amusement at Carter's unintentional display of infatuation.

“Don't let that sweet smile fool you, kid; she's quite the handful,” Elijah chuckled, a glimmer of mischief dancing in his eyes as he warned the young boy. His heart swelled with love for his daughter, a whirlwind of energy who had a delightful knack for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. With her vibrant personality, she commanded attention wherever she went—her laughter rang out like a cheerful melody, and her outgoing nature was unmistakable.

Though her smile was disarmingly charming, Elijah knew that beneath that veneer lay a fierce spirit capable of surprising even the hardiest of souls. Her words often spilled forth without hesitation, and it was her fearless confidence that sometimes left adults taken aback. She could rope and ride with an expertise that rivaled seasoned cowboys, effortlessly outshining those who had spent years honing their craft. Every time she mounted her horse, it was as if the wild spirit of the West surged through her veins, and Elijah couldn’t help but beam with pride at the audacity and joy with which she embraced life.

“Common miss. Mav shows em whatcha got.” Walker spoke.

Carter's mind drifted as he pondered the unusual nickname, "Miss Mav." The curious title echoed in his thoughts, leaving him with a sense of intrigue. He couldn't help but wonder about its origin and what it revealed about her character. Yet, he decided to put that question aside for now, focusing instead on the moment at hand.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow across the landscape, the day began to draw to a close. The Mavericks had ventured out for a while, promising to return later, leaving behind a lively atmosphere in the bunkhouse. Inside, the boys gathered, their laughter echoing off the wooden walls as they shared stories and teased one another. Teeter, seemed particularly taken with Crystal, affectionately referring to her as “my girl.” The friendly ribbing continued as they playfully jabbed at Jake, tasing that the young girl had outdone him in their cowboy activities that day.

Carter still curios he was still a bit out of the loop regarding the Mavericks. When he inquired about them, Lloyd took the opportunity to share tales of their impressive ranch located up in Oregon, not quite as expansive as Yellowstone, but substantial nonetheless. He painted a vivid picture of the Tillamook area, where the Mavericks cultivated a diverse array of animals—goats, chickens, and horses. This conversation reignited the question that had been lingering in Carte's mind,.

“Why do you guys call her ‘Miss. Mav’?” he asked.

Lloyed chuckled “Just respect really, a nickname that has been with her for years. She was a bossy thing when she was younger and hung around here. Shit I mean she still is. They call her that in the rodeo to just kinda stuck Mr. Dutton started it really.” he finished.

Carter nodded, his gaze drifting away from Lloyd, his thoughts lingering on their recent interaction. He recalled the moment when she was putting her horse away, a vivid picture in his mind. Her spirited chatter had flowed effortlessly, yet he couldn't shake the feeling that he was being scrutinized, as if he were in the hot seat. The way she tilted her head, a delicate movement that drew attention to the soft curves of her features, captivated him. Her eyes, bright and intent, locked onto his with a piercing focus, making him acutely aware of every word he uttered. An unsettling mix of nerves and intrigue bubbled within him, leaving him both breathless and contemplative.

He watched her as she bikers with her horse as one would with a person made him laugh, “Why do argue with him like he can understand you.” Carter asked laughing a bit and closing the stall as she stepped out.

“Hes like a giant dog who has no manners.” she scoffed glaring at her horse.

He chuckled a bit watching the horse wander around the unfamiliar stall before sticking his head out and going for her hat. Crystal quickly grabbing her hat from him, “Can you not! Can't you see in having a conversation!”

Her horse shook his head almost in a mocking manner “Take it he's a handful when y'all aren't actually showing?”

“Handful is an understatement Theo is a Boy dog with leg extensions.” she laughed a bit.

Their eyes met, “so whatcha doing tonight Carter?” she asked putting her hand behind her back.

Carter scracthed his neck nervously as she stepped a bit closer to him, “Well.. Uh nothin much, just plan on turning in for the night having dinner with my family tonight.”

She hummed “ Ouu sounds fun so ill see you at dinner then! Maybe after-”

“Cryst! Let's go!” Mikey yelled into the barn, his voice stopped quickly seeing them close.

“Hey! You leave that poor boy alone!” Mikey yelled.

Her head shaped over to her brother scoffing “Shut up Michael! Can't I have friends!” she finish shoot ping her hands up in a shrug expression.

“Carter run while you can!” he spoke, a small playful scream leaving him as he quickly ran back as he saw his sister start to move towards him.

She looked back quickly waving at Carter and smiling at him “Bye Carter I’ll see you at dinner!” she spoke quickly before turning back and running out of the barn.

Coming back out of though he laughed a bit to himself his eyes looking up meeting Ryans. He sat up quickly looking around “ What?” he asked.

“Oh nothing, just watching you smile to yourself over there like a lil weirdo.” Ryan spoke shrugging his shoulders.

“What no! Am I really?” he asked quickly.

“Ye’ yet are” Teeter grinned, “Thinkin’ bout’ lil miss Mav huh?” Teeter spoke to the boy.

Carter shook he head standing up “No its not like that, just not used to talking to kids my age and having some around is nice..”

Lloyd hummed mockingly “mmhmm, Thats why you waited a hole hour after just to unsaddle her horse.”

“I was being nice.”

The bunkhouse erupted into a chorus of laughter, the sound echoing off the wooden walls. A playful teasing filled the air as the boy, his cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and delight, exchanged glances with his obvious crush. It was to early to say he had any actual feelings toward her but he'd be lying if he said he didn't grin when thinking about her.

The bunkhouse fell to a hush as Beth entered the house, “Baby lets go we have guest tonight.” she spoke motioning to him.

Carter looked back at everyone “Not a word..” he mouthed, the cowboys only laughing lowly as he left.

Getting in Beths car she looked over at him. “I need you to take a shower when we get up to the house okay? Gotta be a bit presentable.” grabbing his head kissing the side of it, “You smell like horse shit.” she smiled before starting the car heading up to the house.

This was bound to be an interesting dinner.

tags:

@nomournersonefuneral

[jetblack4realz]

swing dancing - kayce dutton

summary - you and kayce have grown up doing everything together, including swing dancing. sometimes kayce just can't seem to remember that.

word count - 3.1k

a/n - i'm currently watching yellowstone and i think i've fallen in love... boots, hat, accent, and can sing?? guys, LUKE GRIMES

also, this is short but sweet imo so if you have any ideas for kayce or rip or ryan or whoever i am so down

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

when you were twelve, you asked john dutton to teach you to swing dance.

"my brother is no good," you told him with a shrug. "and my dad ain't here to show me. beth said you and miss evelyn were the best swing dancers in town. could you show me?"

he'd smiled softly, turning to you with a tilt of his head. "and why do you wanna know, little lady?"

"there's a church dance this weekend and now that i'm in youth group i can go," you admitted, swinging your hands as a slow smile grew on your lips. "kayce goes to all of 'em and, um, i want to know so i can dance with him."

"why don't you ask him to teach you?" john asked, his smile widening as he raised his brows at you. you groaned, rolling your eyes.

"you know why! that's embarrassing," you huffed as you crossed your arms. "just show me things that kayce would know. please?"

he laughed loudly, standing slowly as he nodded. "alright. you better get some music going, though."

"bob wills?" you asked, moving to where he kept the CDs.

"damn right," he said with a breathy laugh as you put the CD in.

you made him dance with you every night that week leading up to the summer swing dance, perfecting your lame twelve year old two step and learning how to lean into a dip properly. john did his best to teach you, and he had to admit that it warmed his heart doing so since beth would never ask him to teach her how to swing dance, but being almost a foot and a half taller than you made it a tad difficult.

the friday before, you were in the living room with bob wills' "stay a little longer" playing on the CD player as john spun you when kayce came in early from roping outside with rip.

"what are you doing?"

your heart nearly stopped, but john just laughed, continuing to two step with you as kayce stood in the entryway with a quirked brow.

"what do you think, son? we're dancing," he answered, spinning you again until you were stopped in front of where kayce was eying you.

"why didn't you ask me? i coulda showed you," kayce said, furrowing his brows.

"i, uh, i wanted to surprise you," you answered lamely, shrugging. you offered him a small smile. "i know how to do it now."

"alright, then," the thirteen year old said, holding his hands out in front of him as he smiled. "surprise me."

john was smiling as he stepped to the side, gesturing for you two to go along. "i think i'm gonna go check on how rip is doing. show him what you got, kid."

"ready?" kayce asked as his dad left, smiling widely.

the song changed as he took the first step forward, you copying the best you knew. he pulled you around the living room in a two step, spinning you around casually as you moved easily. you pulled away to spin backwards into his arms in a sweetheart before spinning out. kayce pulled you back in, holding you to his side as he leaned.

"dad shown you this one?" he asked, to which you shook your head. he leaned back up and spun you out again. he raised his brows as he spoke. "lean on me one more time and then on the last one you're gonna jump off me, alright?"

"jump off you?" you asked, knitting your brows. "what?"

"push off my foot that's close to yours and jump," he said simply. he spun you back in. "just lean now." spun you out and nodded. "now you jump."

so as soon as you were back at his side you jumped, yelping when kayce's foot pushed you up and to the side. he laughed loudly as he brought you back in front of him, beginning a two step again. "fun, huh? lee just showed me that one."

"that was cool," you laughed.

"right? okay, let's do the pretzel now. you done that one?"

when you went to the dance the next night, you were asked to swing at nearly every song. kayce watched with a frown each time another boy would make it to you before he could, and his frown only deepened when they showed you a new move you got excited about. halfway through he shoved his way to you and didn't let you dance with another boy the rest of the night - not that you minded.

from then on, you and kayce went to the dances together and almost exclusively danced together. you'd watch the other couples and copy their twists and dips. one night while you were out on the ranch you let him convince you to try a flip. when he didn't drop you, you let him do it again, and it quickly became one of your favorite things to randomly throw into your dances.

"if jamie can do it, i sure as hell can," he defended lamely as he followed you around the barn, closing up the horse stalls for the night.

"jamie did it with susan miller - she's literally like 4'2", it was so easy for him," you told him, rolling your eyes.

"we haven't even tried! will you please let me try?" he begged.

"no."

"why?!"

"because you could drop me on my head and kill me," you replied easily, locking up the final stall and making your way out the door, flicking off the lights.

"please darlin', i won't drop you i promise," he said. "do you know how cool we would look if we could do flips? seth wheaton can't do that, we'd blow him and kylie right out of the water."

that made you pause, just like kayce knew it would. you had history with kylie - history that revolved around kayce whether he knew it or not. she'd spent all of middle school and half of high school trying to steal him from you, but it always backfired, and now you just loved to see the look on her face every time you entered the dance hall with kayce at your side, spinning you around with a certain kind of partnership no one else in the school had.

"alright," you sighed, stopping your walk back to the house and turning to him. "let's just do it. how does it go?"

"well," he said with a wide grin, "i spin you out as usual. but when you spin back in i move my arm in front of you, grab the back of your thighs, and then at the same time you jump and i turn you. easy as that."

"mhm," you mumbled. "easy."

he pulled you into position, turning you out and then spinning you in. he did just as he said, catching you between his arms with his right at your torso and his left under your legs. you grabbed his bicep tightly and squeezed your eyes shut, jumping and tucking before suddenly you were on your feet again.

you opened your eyes, your brows shooting up. you looked at kayce, breathing out an incredulous laugh. "you did it! you didn't drop me!"

he laughed with you, shaking his head. "and you thought i would? i'm offended, really."

throughout your teenage years, whenever you two had a weekend together it was spent swing dancing. things got messy when he got monica long pregnant, and again when he left the ranch for the navy.

"kayce, tonight's just not a good night," you'd told him, moving around him to get to the stairs. he caught your arm.

"please," he said, a certain desperation in his tone that caught your attention. "i need to go out tonight. with you. please."

you looked him over with a furrow in your brow before nodding slowly, sighing slightly. "alright, just let me get changed and we can go. but you owe me an explanation for all of this." you gestured to him before running upstairs to your room.

when you got to his truck, he was already playing your music. you shot him a smile as you buckled up, your arm resting next to his on the middle console.

"so what's going on that you pulled me away at ten o'clock at night on a thursday to go swing dancing?" you asked.

he was silent for a while, glancing at you several times before he finally let out a deep sigh.

"i'm in love with you, did you know that?" he asked. your breath hitched. that was not what you were expecting him to say in the least. "and i have to say it now and take you dancing now because i'm leaving tomorrow. i joined the navy to, uh, get away from my father. i just need a break, i need something different, something fulfilling. and i also needed to tell you now so you don't think i'm gonna come home and marry monica because that sure as hell ain't my plan. i mean, i'll help her and all, it's my kid, i want my kid, but i don't like her like that. we were drunk when we slept together, scout's honor. if i'm coming home at all it's gonna be to you, alright? is that... is that alright?"

he glanced at you again, your eyes wide and your jaw dropped. "you're... you're leaving? kayce why didn't you tell me?"

"i didn't tell anyone. you're the only one who knows, darlin," he told you. silence washed over you both as he waited for your response. "please say something."

"you better come home," you murmured, finally turning to look at him. "and yes, you'll be coming home to me. i love you too, kayce. always have."

the breath he let out was so heavy and relieved you nearly laughed. he grabbed your hand as he shot you the brightest smile you'd seen from him in a long while. "i am so glad to hear you say that."

he pulled into the parking lot, still squeezing your hand tightly. when he put the car in park, he turned to you more fully. "so, uh, does this mean you'll wait for me?"

"i've waited this long, what's another few years?" you mumbled with a sad smile. "at least now i can call you my boyfriend and tell you i love you."

"i swear, if i had a ring you could call me your fiance too," he breathed out, chuckling lightly. "you've got me, baby. i promise."

he reached forward, cupping your chin in his hand and leaning in slowly. but, you stopped him, a slight smile on your lips as you leaned back.

"i don't want our first kiss to be in your truck, kayce," you told him.

"i can solve that real quick," he said, flinging his door open with a wide grin. "stay there, darlin'."

he slammed his door behind him and ran around the truck, pulling your door open, his smile even wider now. he offered you a hand and helped you out, shutting the door behind you. he didn't waste a second to take you in his arms and capture your lips in his, both of you moving perfectly in sync with the other - well, like you always had.

he smiled when he pulled away, leaning his forehead on yours as he held you close to him. "do you wanna go on a date with me? we could go dancing."

you laughed, kissing him shortly again. "absolutely."

when he got home for his first break after the extra long boot camp for hopeful navy seals, monica had wanted him to marry her and move to the reservation. he had to break it to her he wasn't in love with her. instead, he came home to you.

but, you hadn't danced much since he returned. the last time you had was at your wedding when lee had arranged the playlist with all your best dancing songs and you and kayce had taken the time to show off to your guests.

when "stay a little longer" started, john knew exactly what was about to happen. beth laughed in her seat next to rip, covering her mouth as she watched her little brother grab you by the hand and drag you back to the dance floor when you'd only just left it.

"what is with the two of them and this song?" rip asked, quirking a brow as he watched the dutton boy begin spinning you around.

"it's the first song the ever danced to," john said as he folded his arms, smiling softly at the sight of his youngest with his new wife.

"how do you know that, dad?" beth asked.

"i was there," he answered almost sentimentally. "she asked me to teach her so she could dance with him. and look at them now."

"i've known they were gonna get married since you two showed up at the ranch," beth said, looking at rip with a smile. "as much as you may not like it, our little siblings are perfect for each other."

rip sat back with a sigh, mimicking john's position by crossing his arms too. "yeah, well, she seems happy."

"she is," beth said with a nod, smiling as kayce flipped you, earning cheers from the friends and family surrounding you all, the loudest of them all being lee as he finished spinning one of their ten year old cousins in his arms, both smiling and cheering loudly.

you looked elegant as you danced with your now-husband. your western-style dress was flowy enough to be dramatic in cool turns, but didn't fall when you flipped and dipped - you'd picked it with swinging in mind.

kayce spinned you for one of the last times, twirling you once, twice, three times before turning you in his arms and letting you fall into a dip, your hands around his back as you both smiled widely at each other.

"i love you, kayce," you told him with a light laugh as you caught your breath.

"i love you too, baby," he said, smiling as he pressed a kiss to your lips, earning another whooping cheer from spectators - again, mostly lee.

now, everything was crazy. everyone was trying to steal the ranch, lee had been killed, kayce had killed a variety of people, and someone had poisoned the cows.

kayce was stressed.

"hey, cowboy," you called as you approached the barn, hands tucked into your pockets. "you missed dinner."

he sighed, locking the horse stall. "had to finish up here. are the kids-?"

"fed and bathed," you answered with a small smile. "tate asked for you to read him a story, but your dad took over. was nearly out when i left to find you."

"thank you," he told you with a relieved sigh.

"of course," you answered. he crossed the rest of the distance to you, wrapping his arms around your waist as he pulled you into him, a thin frown on his lips. "long day?"

"long year," he sighed. he rested his forehead on yours, breathing out slowly. "you doing okay?"

"mm, yeah," you hummed in answer, sliding your hands up his arms to wrap around his neck. "could use a night out though. your dad said he'd stay with tate and evie tomorrow night if we wanted to go out dancing."

"dancing?" he mumbled, pulling back enough to meet your eyes. "i haven't danced in forever."

"i know, that's why i thought we needed to get out there again," you answered with a shrug, offering him a small smile. "let loose for a night. try to forget about all the chaos happening over here."

kayce sighed. "darlin', i don't know. there's a million things i gotta do-"

"a million things that can wait, or hell, that rip can do," you said, freely offering your brother for anything in order to get kayce off the ranch. "we need to have a little bit of fun. get into town, get out of here, and have some fun. please, kace."

"i can think of a lot of fun things we can do while still staying on the ranch," he said slowly, leaning into your neck to begin pressing soft kisses there. you laughed, pushing him away.

"kayce, i wanna dance," you told him.

he sighed, shifting his weight to his other foot. "i don't even know if i remember half the moves, baby."

"sure you do," you said. you reached for his hands. "come on."

"what?" he laughed.

"come here," you insisted, pulling him backwards away from the barn and closer to the light above the arena. you fished your phone from your pocket and quickly clicked through your saved songs, choosing that first bob wills song you'd danced to. you set it on the fence, leaning it up against the post upside down so it'd play the loudest it could.

as the song played, kayce seemed to get sentimental. he pulled you in by your hands, taking a slow two step as he stared down at you.

"show me what you got, cowboy," you told him with a wide smile. your words seemed to kick him back into gear, him quickly spinning you backwards into his arms.

"alright, darlin'," he relented with a light laugh. "let's do this."

he spun you around as muscle memory began to set in and you weaved in and out of each other's grasp. the music kept you hopping, laughing joyously as kayce spun you around and dipped you, swinging you around in the dirt like you were teenagers again. he nodded at you with a wide grin as he twirled you back in preparation for what you knew had to be a flip and you squeezed your eyes shut, bracing and jumping into his arms as he flipped you backwards. you landed just as the song ended, kayce quickly spinning you into a low dip to end more grandiosely as a wide smile rested on his lips.

"see?" you breathed out. "you do remember how to dance."

"only with you, baby," he said, kissing you quickly with the smile still on his lips. he pulled you back up to keep your lips on his, one hand rising to cup your jaw gently. when he pulled away, he tilted his hat at you. "will you go on a date with me tomorrow night? we could go dancin'."

you laughed, kissing him again. "i'd love to go on a date with you, kayce dutton."

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

thanks for reading! leave a request in the comments or message me privately! i love writing, so if you've got an idea you need fleshed out on paper i'd love to be the one to do that for you

masterlist!!

[i-heart-yellowstone]

Kayce dutton x reader

Reader surprises kayce with lunch at his office

You're a Darn good Wife

Here's the first official request on the new All Yellowstone blog!!! 😁

Parking my red truck outside the Livestock department office I pushed the driver door open and closed after grabbing the lunch bag of burgers from the place down the street. Entering the building I stopped at the front desk seeing the familiar blonde sitting there named Amy. "What can I do for you, Mrs. Dutton?"

"Is my husband in his office by chance?" I asked her.

She shakes her head no with a half smile. "He's out with the sheriff right now. But he should be back before lunch is over."

"Alright. I'll wait in his office. But don't tell him I'm here." I told her, wanting it to be a surprise for when he comes back. She nodded in agreement, watching me head around the corner out of her line of sight.

Opening his office door, I sat down the bag on his desk, scanning my eyes over the disorderly pile of paperwork he had on it. Sitting out the sandwiches and fries before plopping down in the computer chair scrolling on my cell phone until I heard footsteps coming down the hallway. “Good afternoon, cowboy.” I chimed in seeing him walk inside the office with a bright smile on my face.

“Y/n, what are you doing here?” He dropped his jacket on the hook by the door, opening his arms for me.

I rushed forward flinging my arms around his neck chucking into his shoulder. He wrapped his arms tightly around my waist kissing my hair clearly suprised I was there during lunch. “I thought I’d suprised you with lunch from that burger place you like near Bozeman. Considering we barely see each other with you working here and me working on your father’s land since half of the cowboys are up at the Summer Camp.”

“Well I’m certainly not gonna complain about any visit that involves you.” Kayce barely broke the hug gently holding me with his hands on my waist.

My arms stayed around his neck where I sent him a grin. “You better not like my visits. I did agree to marry you even when you told me you had a kid with your ex wife.”

“Hey, you love Tate.” Kayce gasped slightly offended.

I gave him a half smile tilting my head to the side reassuring what I had said minutes ago. “I’m just messing with you. I really do love Tate and treat him like he’s my own kid until we have our own of course.”

“You want to have kids with me.” Kayce’s face brightened at the words that had came out of my mouth.

I responded to my husband. “Of course. I told you on our fourth date that I wanted marriage and kids.”

“I was waiting to ask if we should start trying for a baby and now that I know that. I think we could start right now if you’re up for it.” He bends down on his knees quickly picking me up by my thighs and I wrap my arms around little tighter around hi neck even though he wouldn’t drop me.

I squealed when he carries me over to his desk and he slides some of the papers onto the floor without a real care in the world except me and him in that moment. “Kayce! What about the burgers?”

“Oh don’t worry we’ll be eating them when we’re done.” He smirked at me, moving his fingers down to the bottom of my shirt shrugging it upward and tossing it onto the floor with his own.

I scanned my eyes over his chest feeling my face turning red till I realized the door was still opened. “Wait a second. We have sex with the door wide open. I don’t think your coworkers would like that too much.”

“See we’ve got nothing to worry about. Especially when you’re a darn good wife who looks damn good to me right now.” Kayce ran slamming it closed and locking the door behind him before he rushed back over to me. He stands as close to me as he can possibly get cupping my face in his hands pressing his lips down onto mine.

Threading my fingers into the fabric of dark tan dress shirt seconds before I quickly began undoing the buttons on it and finally launched it across the office. “You better not waste those burgers. Dutton. Otherwise I will you regret your decisions later down the road.” I told before he gently pushed me down onto the desk and he sat the bag of food on the ground.

“Don’t you worry, baby. Once I get you pregnant you won’t be too worried about whether or not we wasted some burgers or not.” He smirked down at me, hovering above me till I wrapped my arms around his neck bringing him back down for another kiss.

He moved one hand over my hip and his other was holding his body up a little so not all of his weight was on top of me. “I’ll hold you to that promise, Kayce.” I broke the kiss where he smiled down at me, reconnecting our lips together and we let ourselves get lost in the other person.

Comments really appreciated ❤️