#carter yellowstone x reader

[jetblack4realz]

damn bars - yellowstone boys

how the yellowstone boys react to you getting hit on at the bar

kayce, rip, ryan, carter

word count total: 3.9k

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kayce dutton:

you had gone out to the bar for one reason and one reason only: to dance.

you and kayce loved to dance, but you didn't get many opportunities to. so, when one night john took tate for a sleepover, winking at you as he pulled the boy away, you decided to get out there and swing away like you were teenagers again. you grabbed beth and rip to come too, knowing they'd appreciate getting out even if they didn't dance - would rip ever dance? probably not.

it was fun for the first little bit, all the good swing songs playing as he twirled you around the wooden dance floor. you pulled out old tricks he forgot you knew and he twisted and flipped you into cool routines you forgot he knew. when you decided to take a break, kayce heading to the bathroom while you ordered a drink, you just knew something was going to happen.

but, you ordered anyways, eyes on where beth was shaking her ass away to the fun country music playing and where rip was watching her with the fondest smile you'd ever seen from him.

the bartender slid you your drink. you smiled. "thank you."

he nodded at you, walking down the bar to attend to another customer as you leaned your back against the counter, eyes back to your sister-in-law.

"you've really been busting a move out there."

you turned to see a man, taller than you but definitely shorter than kayce, bigger, with a brown hat and black boots. he wasn't necessarily attractive and there was just something about him that made you want to scrunch your nose, so you did.

"yep," you hummed, sipping on your whiskey.

"you've only had the one partner. i'm sure i could show you some moves if you're looking for a new one," he said, glancing to the side as a smile pulled up one side of his mouth. "i don't see him here anymore."

"he'll be back," you told him, setting your drink down and looking him over again. "and even if i was looking for another partner, you don't look like much of a dancer, buddy."

he knitted his brows at that, looking down at you with a curious smirk on his lips. "spicy. i like that."

you wanted to throw up.

"don't call me that," you said. "that was gross."

"oh come on, darling," he said, shifting so he was more in your view. "just one dance? he'll never even know, he ain't here."

"he is." you held up your ring finger, flashing the rock that was your wedding band at him. "i ain't going with you buddy."

and that was when he grabbed you, hand on your hip as he pulled you into him. he smelled like bad beer, cheap cologne, and straight b.o. you instantly pushed away even as he held you tighter, speaking now: "one dance, baby. life is too short to only dance with one man the rest of it."

"life's too short to dance with ugly men," you retorted, scrunching your nose again as you finally, very forcefully pushed him away from you, backing towards where you knew rip was last standing. except he wasn't there.

you looked at the dance floor and your mind was blown. of course the one time rip wheeler decides to take to the dance floor was when you were actively being harassed at the bar.

the guy didn't like your answer and stepped towards you, mouth open to say something before another figure stepped in front of you, one you knew very well. especially since you'd picked out his shirt. you breathed a breath of relief as he glanced back at you, checking you were okay before returning a much more menacing gaze to your advancer.

"i don't know what you've said or done thus far, but the way my wife is lookin at you doesn't look very good for you," kayce said, his eyes turned in a glare as he stepped towards him.

"look, man, all i wanted was a dance, not anything more-"

"a dance is still too much to ask for, especially when she's already said no," kayce said sternly. "leave. now."

"what, like the whole-"

"i'd really love a reason to punch you and if you keep talking you're gonna be giving me one," kayce warned, but the guy didn't get it apparently because he kept going.

"hey, man i didn't do anything-"

kayce looked back at you. "he touch you?"

the moments between you nodding and kayce full on clocking the guy in the jaw went by in literally the blink of an eye. the man stumbled back and kayce swung again, effectively knocking him to the floor. he kicked him then, the man folding in half with a groan. kayce moved to do it again when you grabbed his arm.

"baby, let's just get out of here," you told him. "i don't need you getting in trouble."

"i'm the livestock commissioner, i'll be fine," he said.

"well, then, just..." you moved around him to where the dude was sprawled on the ground, looking up at your husband in fear as some blood tricked from a cut in his lip and also between his teeth. everyone in this town knew kayce dutton could throw a punch.

you stomped on his hand then, hard, earning a shout and an instant recoil. you could've sworn you felt a crunch under the heel of your boot when you did.

"so you can't grab any other girls anytime soon," you said before turning on your heel and grabbing your husband, who looked like he was chomping at the bit to get back to pummeling him. "c'mon, baby."

but, tonight was supposed to be fun. when you pulled him out the front door for some fresh air and maybe to bar hop, you thought to remind him of that. you turned to him with a smile, hand cupping his face just below his jaw. "c'mere, cowboy." you kissed him slowly, his hands falling to your waist almost instantly as he folded to your touch, returning the kiss eagerly.

when you pulled back, he kept you close, kissing you again.

"thank you," you breathed out when you finally broke again, smiling up at him. "i can always count on your mean right hook to get me out of any bad situation."

"i practice it just for that," he said quietly, pecking your lips again.

you laughed lightly. "seriously, thank you though," you said, wrapping your arms around his middle as you relaxed in his hold. "for saving me."

"i'll always save you," he promised, pressing a kiss to the top of your head. "and i'm never going to the bathroom while we're out again."

rip wheeler:

to get rip to go out was a chore. it usually took some promising of later nightly activities and some chanting and begging from the wranglers too. and when you finally got him there, he wasn't exactly interactive, mostly just watching you dance and getting you the appropriate amount of refills to keep you semi-aware.

aware for situations like this.

you were dancing the night away with teeter, hands in the air as you laughed and jumped and twirled with your favorite of the cowboys, glancing up at rip regularly to shoot him a wink or shout something about how great his ass looked in those jeans, when suddenly you felt hands on your waist.

you spun around, brows shot straight up as you swatted this strange, tall and skinny man who oddly reminded you of a drugged out, dark haired jimmy, man away from you, stepping back and bumping into teeter. "damn you're ballsy, dude," you said. he stepped back to you, his hands landing on your waist again, fingers brushing over the waistband of your jeans as teeter grabbed your shoulders and helped you shuffle away. "seriously, get off!"

"hey, come back here, baby-"

it was instinctive, really. your father had taught you how to throw a proper punch and rip had taught you the best places to throw it, and well, the first one that came to mind was the throat.

he staggered back with a choked breath, hand rising to his jugular as he stared at you with wide eyes. "you crazy bitch!"

"did you seriously just call me the bitch?" you said, stepping towards him now with your hand balled into a fist.

but, before you could throw another punch and before the psycho dude could fully recover, rip was now in the picture. two extremely well-placed punches sent the creep into the surrounding crowd. no one did or said anything for a few moments, everyone having seen him grab you and insinuating exactly who rip was in this situation.

he turned back to you, grabbing your hand tightly and sending a look teeter's way that had her collecting the rest of the wranglers, who had all suddenly appeared at your side.

"let's go," he said strictly.

"can we go to another bar?" you asked as he dragged you out of the facility and towards the truck. he let out a short laugh.

"there's no way in hell i'm letting you back into another bar anytime soon," he said. "if another psychotic bastard thinks he can put his hands on you i can't promise that i wouldn't kill him right then. it took a lot of restraint not to keep going in there, baby."

"rip, come on, let's have fun tonight - woah!"

and suddenly you were thrown over his shoulder in a fireman carry. he barely even stopped to do it, just scooping you up and continuing on to where he'd parked the truck.

"nope," he said. "and anyways, there's other ways to have fun." he pulled the door open and set you on the passenger seat with a smirk. "you have a couple promises to fulfill for even dragging me here in the first place."

"damn," you mumbled as he gave you a quick kiss, shutting the door and crossing to the other side. as he got in and buckled, you looked over at him with a bit of a dopey smile on your lips. "have i told you i love you recently?"

"i'm sure you have, baby, but i'm happy to hear it again," he told you, smiling your way as he started the truck up.

"well, i do love you. and thank you. that sucked."

"and it ain't ever gonna happen again on my watch," he promised. "he really just snuck up on you there."

"literally crazy."

ryan:

you weren't much of a games girl, which everyone thought was weird given the man you were with. but, you were content to watch, to sit at the bar conversing with the wranglers who weren't involved in the game of pool or dancing, and to watch colby crash and burn as he approached girls again and again.

that last one was your favorite activity.

every now and again you would wander back over to where ryan was playing lloyd or jake, cheer him on, give him a quick kiss, and then return to the designated spot colby kept coming back to after another failed attempt at wooing a tourist.

the tourists were funny too. you could always tell which ones had just bought their hats and boots before or even while they were in montana just to blend in. some of the girls were wearing such california things you wondered if they were wanting to blend in at all, which the answer was no. colby, and plenty of other cowboys, liked the tourists. or at least, for a quick one.

you were watching him with a grin as he stumbled on his words with a pretty brunette, sipping on your drink casually. he was using his hands to emphasize something and she did not seem like she was interested in that something at all. you giggled to yourself.

"you like people watching?"

you glanced to your side to see a shorter man with spiky blond hair at your side. this guy didn't even take a try at a hat, sticking it with bright and shiny new black tecovas with a pointed toe and a snakeskin design that was so opposite of what you were used to.

you didn't think you'd ever been turned off more by a boot.

"yeah, i do," you nodded, looking back at where colby was actively losing his chosen girl's attention. "it's entertaining."

"it is," he agreed, taking the seat next to you. "you from around here?"

for some reason, you laughed. you guessed it was because he was so obviously not from here that for him to ask you if you were was just funny to you. "yep. you ever heard of the yellowstone dutton ranch?"

"it got anything to do with the park?" he asked.

you laughed again before taking a sip of your drink. "no. around here, when people talk about the yellowstone, they're talking about the 800,000 acre cattle ranch just outside of town owned by the livestock commissioner and the oldest family in montana."

he seemed shocked, but he tried to get through it, continuing his little q&a. "you're from there?"

"it's my family that owns it," you answered easily.

"and what's it like owning 800,000 acres of some of the most coveted land in america?" he asked, tilting his head at you. if you hadn't before, you definitely piqued his interest now.

you shrugged. "it's a lot of work, but it's worth it. it's beautiful."

"lonely, though, i bet," he said, and that made you laugh again. wow, he really tried that one.

"no, actually," you told him. "need a good amount of people to run that ranch. don't get too much time to yourself."

"do you want time to yourself?" he asked.

"i'm good with what i've got, thank you," you told him. you looked over at where ryan had caught sight of your predicament and was making his way over to you. you stood, shooting the man at your right a polite smile. "one of the cowboys we've got is particularly attractive. i'm entertained enough, don't you worry about me."

he saw ryan then and stood as well. "i wouldn't say he's particularly attractive. you could do better."

"are you suggesting yourself?" you asked with a laugh, holding an arm out to wrap around ryan's waist as he came to your side, pressing a kiss to the side of your head before eying the man in front of y'all. "sorry, pal. you may be decently cute, but you ain't no cowboy. if you're looking to get lucky in this town it'd do you good to remember that. shoot for your own kind."

the man looked up at ryan. "you her cowboy?"

"damn straight," ryan answered. "you better take that advice. a lot of the cowgirls you'll see around here anyways are taken, you're asking for a fight talking to 'em. you're just lucky she played nice. it's the only reason i am too." ryan nodded, tilting his hat at the man before stepping away and bringing you with him. "best of luck. just not with my girl."

he took you back to the pool table with him where lloyd was laughing at the sight of you. he pressed another kiss to your head.

"did you really have to call him cute?" he asked you.

"decently cute," you reminded with a shake of your head. "i called you particularly attractive, which is an understatement. i just didn't wanna shake the guy's confidence down too much. those boots are doin that enough for him."

ryan laughed. "damn tourists."

carter:

nearly everything carter did reminded beth of how rip was at that age. and nearly everything you did as you consistently visited reminded her of how she was at that age.

it had her worried and excited.

"don't break his heart," she told you one day, cornering you after lunch. "i've been there, i've done that, it's terrible for everyone involved. save yourself the trouble and just snag him now, you know you want him and he wants you. just date, okay? and don't be a bitch later."

the words shocked you, but definitely kicked you into gear. carter was shier than you ever were, awfully polite and gentlemanly as beth had trained him to be, and so you were the one to get him into going to the bar.

"will we even get served here?" he asked, holding your hand as you led him in.

"hell yeah we will," you answered, smiling back at him as you approached the bar. you were quick to pull out your id - a fake one, but one nonetheless - and slide it to the bartender. "an old fashioned please."

"what about me?" carter whispered.

you laughed lightly. "just get your id out, darlin'."

confused but obedient, he pulled out his wallet and was surprised to see a new driver's license in the clear slot he usually kept his in. one that said he was 21.

he held it up as he cleared his throat, catching the bartender's attention. "make that two." he looked back at you. "these any good?"

"i think so," you answered with a shrug. "you ever have bourbon before, or just beer?"

"just beer," he nodded.

"well, hopefully you'll like it," you said with a shrug. "i've seen your dad make them back at the ranch. i'm sure you'll like them."

"oh, he's not my dad," he corrected as the bartender slid them over to y'all.

you furrowed your brows. "really? you look exactly alike."

it was as he was taking his first swig of his drink that you felt someone slide between you and the person sitting next to you, their arm settling on the counter in front of you. you looked up, brows raised as you found a man, definitely in his late 30s, in a nicer shirt than this bar deserved, brand new boots, and what looked to be a cross between dress pants and jeans. interesting.

"can i help you?" you asked, his positioning crowding you into your seat even though you didn't move much. this was your bubble, he was the one who had to get out of it.

"just wondering if you had anyone paying for this drink," he said, his hand now on your whiskey as you narrowed your eyes.

carter moved sharply to stand, but settled when you set a hand on his knee, thumb rubbing circles into his jeans. you offered the guy a very thin, very fake smile.

"that's a nice shirt," you said, earning a wider smile from the man. "where'd you get it?" he almost went to answer, but you continued, your next few sentences stringing together in almost one breath.

"oh, well, i bet you don't know since your wife bought it for you. or - is it ex-wife, now? i don't see a ring, but i definitely see that faded tan line from it being there for years and recently taken off. probably because of a very similar situation we find ourselves in now. your wife is at home, with the kids, waiting for you to take her out to a dinner that will never happen because you're here, scoping out for the youngest woman you can find to sloppily sleep with in the back of your brand new honda civic that you convinced yourself and that girl was some new sports car because it's a 'newer model'."

already, he was in shock, staring at you with a scared kind of wonder that for some reason made you so proud.

you continued. "so, either you're here trying to do that again behind your wife's back, or she's already divorced you, which for her sake i hope is the case, because you seem like a pathetic piece of shit who blames his infidelity on being overworked and undersupported when really you're just a pedophiliac horndog who doesn't understand what the word 'no' means."

you took your drink back from him, taking a sip from it as you watched his expression change between shocked, offended, confused, and embarrassed.

"and yes," you added, "i do have someone to pay for my drink."

he gaped at you as you turned away from him, hand still on carter's knee as you grinned into your glass, sipping from it again. he glanced behind you at carter and you knew he wanted to exclaim how carter was a boy and he was a man, but didn't because he didn't know what else you would say.

"you psycho bitch," he muttered. "all i did was offer to pay for your drink."

"yeah, well i'm quite obviously young enough to be the daughter you had when you accidentally knocked up the drum major when you were a junior, so it's still kind of disgusting," you told him, rolling your eyes. "especially when it's so easy to see that the man i'm sitting next to is my boyfriend, or at the very least, someone else who is paying for my drink because we got them to us at the exact same time and my hand is on his knee. so fuck off, dickwad."

and he did, scoffing as he left. carter turned to look at you with wide eyes before he breathed out a laugh.

"you're my favorite person ever," he said. you smiled at him, shrugging lightly.

"i was trained by the best," you hummed.

he smiled at that before giving you a curious look, tilting his head at you. "so, i'm your boyfriend?"

"i'm hoping," you said, smiling back. "i mean, i really like you, and i think you like me. beth told me to get on with it already because why waste time, hence why we're here. i can call you my boyfriend, right?"

"yeah, yeah you can," he said, nodding as he breathed out a laugh.

you were beaming, maybe even blushing as you glanced away for a few moments before continuing conversation. "how's your drink?"

"surprisingly good," he answered. "you have good taste."

your smile softened a bit as you looked at him, nodding slowly. "yeah, i do." you finished your drink in one swig, setting the glass on the counter. "hey, do you wanna get out of here?"

"but, we just got here," he said, furrowing his brows.

"well, i just have this feeling more situations are going to arise that will either warrant me coming up with more speeches like that or you punching a guy square in the nose, and i'm not in the mood for either," you answered, standing and pulling your wallet from your bag.

"hey, no, i pay," he said. he tossed a ten and a twenty on the counter, his hand going to your lower back as he followed you out of the bar.

"hey carter?" you asked as he opened the passenger door to the truck, holding your hand to help you up. he smiled up at you.

"yeah?"

you reached forward, taking his face in your hand and pressing your lips to his gently. he froze for a minute, but stepped forward to reach you better and deepened the kiss as best he knew how, his hands on your waist as he pulled you closer to him.

when you pulled away, he was grinning, "damn."

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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!!

[n3tworksucks]

if yall watch yellowstone. I need to write for carter- like needd to. PLEASE ASK FOR HIM PLEASE POR FAVOR PLEASE

[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

[bellarkeselection]

We’re All Family Here

Reader is Carter’s younger sister and she has a prosthetic leg and the reader is worried that Rip and Beth will kick her off the ranch if they found out. Wattpad request from - @Quackity_bwead

Pulling down the Jean of my right leg I sighed staring at myself in the mirror that was in my room in Rip and Beth’s house. My brother Carter was already up for work in the barn but I got to sleep in this morning which was rare. Walking out of the house I headed to the barn with large Y above the doorway. The sun had just started to rise above the mountains and everybody was busy already working. Taking my horse out of the stall I climbed on feeling my fake leg hanging over. “Alright boy, let’s go.”

Kicking my horse we rode off towards the sunset with the wind running through my hair. I was wearing a tan dark cowgirl hat and my hair was tied in a braid. Riding through the fields I saw my older brother Carter who was trying to rope a cafe but it started running at me. “Y/n, watch out!” He cried when the cafe got underneath my horses leg and it spooked causing the horse to throw me off its back.

“Sis I’m sorry. I just couldn’t get a good hold on it.” My brother apologized coming over on his horse while Ryan rode past me to go grab my horse that had ran off somewhere else.

Rubbing the back of my neck I winced feeling some pain but it wasn’t as bas I have normally been through. Shifting my gaze away from my brother I saw that Rip was riding over to us. He dismounted his horse quickly dropping himself on a knee in front of me. “What the hell happened, kid. You can’t be injuring any of our guys!..are you hurt Y/n?”

“No just sore a little.” I shook my head not understanding why his deep brown eyes seemed to be filled with concern.

Rip moved closer to me touching my right leg and he pulled up the fabric of my pant. Once he saw something odd sticking out of your pant leg he knew something must be wrong. “Then what exactly is wrong with your leg here?” He questioned me where I finally noticed that he had seen my fake leg.

“I….uh….” I yanked my leg back feeling my face turn red being embarrassed over this. Carter wasn’t with me the night of the accident. I was just driving back to our place with our dead beat dad until someone rear ended me harshly.

Rip saw that I wasn’t going to answer him so he called to Ryan who had brought back my horse. “Ryan, take her back to the ranch.” Getting to my feet I climbed back on my horse and followed the ranch hand back to the ranch then he went back to work like Rip had asked him.

Laying on my bed inside my room I stared at the ceiling in silence and a pit of nervousness. Sitting upright I knew I had messed up or more so my brother had. I had done my best to keep the fact that I had a prosthetic leg a secret. In fear that if they knew I would be removed from the ranch. Someone came down the hallway and I lifted my head up seeing it was Beth. “Hi mom….uh what’s up?” I nervously asked since she had just started letting me call her that.

“I heard about your fall today from Rip. I’m happy you shook it off but we need to talk about something.” She entered the bedroom before I saw that Rip was also walking in behind her heels.

Playing with my thumbs in my lap I avoided their gazes when they came to sit down on the bed. Well Beth did leaving Rip standing directly in front of me. “So are you going to tell me about your leg or no?”

“I don’t really want to talk about it…” I gulped trailing off in my response already knowing the answer they would give me.

It was hard enough for Carter to prove that he would be a good worker. I already was a good hand but the fake leg wasn’t a good look. John Dutton had the greatest ranch in Montana and that means he should have close to the best people working for him. “You better tell us otherwise things will get ugly.” Beth warned me with her annoyed look and I froze knowingly.

"It's...it's about my prosthetic leg..." Rolling my pants leg, I made it visible to their gaze, and I didn't dare make eye contact with either of them. "I didn't want to tell you about it because I've been sp terrified of what you would say. Even though I get my work done, nobody else on this ranch has one. So I....just assumed that you would kick me off the ranch over it."

Rip put his hands on his hips, tilting my head to the side slightly. "That's totally ridiculous, Y/n. We would never do that."

"This family may be complicated, but we don't abandon our family members." Beth shifted on her spot on the bed, grasping my hand in hers.

Hanging my mouth open I couldn't believe it. "Really but I thought that-"

"That what us having some cowboys from the prison and others in debt wouldn't have given you the message that we take in the trouble so they can have a home." Rip declared, coming to sit down beside me, tucking hair behind my ear.

I parted my lips without thinking I fling my arms around his neck hugging him tightly. Rip stiffened up at the embrace but calmed down after a second and wrapped his arms around me with the same comfort. “Thank you….I didn’t think you would let me stay.” I sniffed against his chest.

“Anyone who has a problem with that will have to deal with me.” Beth responded after I hugged her and she actually hugged me back too to my surprise. I smiled at the pair knowing that Carter and I were gonna do really good here. This wasn’t just a rnhc, it was a family for everybody.

Comments really appreciated ❤️

[i-heart-yellowstone]

17 - Awkward Family Dinner

Part 18

Raised Fair Share of Hell

Tag list @bvbwestfall @hcwthewestwaswcn @child-of-of-the-sunshine @elenavampire21 @keep-the-wolves-close @kmc1989 @tallrock35

The evening came sooner than I expected and I figured it would be an interesting dinner considering John had freed Summer and put her on house arrest here. Leaving her and Beth to most likely get into it sometime tonight. John was at the head of the table. Kayce and I took the chairs on the end. Carter was sitting next to Faith who had Rip on her other side and Beth beside him. Summer ended up being close to the governor like his daughter. Gator entered the room sitting down multiple trays of meat noticing Summer sitting at the table. "Oh I'm sorry ma'am. If I had known I would have made you something else."

"Give her what we feed the horses, Gator." Beth scoffed glaring across the table at the girl.

Biting my lip I forked some food on each of the twins plates so they were distracted with eating rather than watching what was about to happen. "Gator she'll be here for 6 months so could you make something that she can eat in the future?" John asked the cook.

"So uh what we have prepared here is an esuremain of game. There on the left vension-"

Summer interrupts him. "Which is to say a deer you shot that was just minding its own business."

"Yes that's right...beside that we'll have roast duck-" He started again but it didn't matter.

She asked a question intertwining her hands together. "Do you realize duck's mate for life?"

"If it helps I killed them both-"

She scoffed as I covered my mouth with my hands trying to not laugh at how ridiculous she was being. "It doesn't make it better. It makes its twice as bad. And what is this little creature that can't even feed one person?"

Kayce glanced at me then shifted his gaze to Faith and Carter who were just watching like the rest of us. "Actually I serve four per person.."

"So you kill four and what is this mystery?" Summer points towards the plate in front of her.

Gator slumped his shoulders and I felt bad for him that she wasn't being a very good guest. Because she could go back to prison if she liked. "Uh that's a dove."

"Dove, the bird of peace." Summer raised a brow. “You’re serving the fucking bird of peace for dinner.”

Kayce chuckled while taking a drink. “Dove is pretty good.” I throw my head back laughing because of how painfully awkward this whole dinner conversation was.

Beth sat down on her napkin, eyeing the girl. "Summer, let's you and I take a walk. Maybe I can educate you on our different ways of life."

"Our different cultures.." She snarled back letting her lead her out of the house.

Tate reached forward alongside my husband taking some of the duck from the plate. I forked some deer on mine about to take a bite until Faith showed me her empty plate. "Can I have seconds?"

I covered my hand with my mouth trying to conceal my laughter. “You’re just like your father, Faithy Rae.”

"How about you let others get some first you two." Kayce chuckled through a bright grin.

Rip focused his attention back on his boss asking softly. "Sir, do you want me to go after them?"

"I think that's a terrible idea, Rip." John chuckled, shaking his head, getting some meat on his plate. I couldn't hold in my laughter anymore so I just start hitting my fist on the table hearing him tell Gator I'll have four.

Carter watched Faith raise her hand asking like she was in school. "Is there any cake tonight?" Everyone at the table just smiled and laughed at her innocent question.

"Yes granddaughter, Gator is making dessert." Her grandfather replied as Rip got up to go check on them outside. When he came back both girls were beaten pretty badly and you could see blood on their faces. Summer ended up just eating some mashed potatoes until John returned with a first aid kit.

After dinner I slowly sat down in the porch swing just looking up at the stars in peaceful silence until the front door gently closed. Turning my head in that direction I smiled seeing my husband who sits down beside me. "I was looking for you."

"Were you already missing me after we had dinner with your family?" I smiled up at him running my fingers through his hair since he wasn't wearing his hat at the moment.

“Just a little bit, Lissa Rae.” He sighed enjoying the feeling where he rests his head on my shoulder intertwining my freehand with his left.

Running my hand up the side of his face he leaned into my palm. “Awe poor Kayce.”

“Don’t judge me, woman.” He sent me a small glare. I crossed my fingers that tomorrow would just be about us and the family. Riding horses and doing what we loved and teaching that spirit into our children. "If Carter and Faith try to share a tent I'm gonna punch him."

"He's a kid, Kayce." I scoffed at not taking him seriously.

He lifted his head up not changing his facial expression meaning he was dead serious about this. "I ain't kidding darlin'. I'm not comfortable with the idea."

"Have you forgotten that we got into much more trouble than they ever have. I mean we got arrested, drank underage and you got me pregnant in high school. I think you’re worrying far too much about them." I replied, tucking hair out from in front of his eyes where he nodded softly yes.

We allowed the familiar silence to surround us again just watching for any shooting stars. He wrapped his arms around my waist tugging me to sit on his lap. Laying my head against his chest he put his chin on top of my head until I started giggling. "I can't believe our kids were eating like wild dogs. Tearing all that meat apart so easily."

"Yeah that was pretty fun. Summer would have probably thrown up at the sight. Don't you think Lissa Rae?" Kayce chuckled with a huge smile and my heart swooned seeing him happy again.

Lifting my head up I softly kissed him. He leans into it resting one hand to cradle my cheek in his hand. "I agree with that, cowboy. I wonder who they got that instinct from hmm?"

"Don't act like you wouldn't tear up my mother's biscuits exactly like that." He teased me while twirling some loose strands of my hair in between his fingers.

Wrapping my arms around his neck I smirked when he leaned forward kissing me deeply. I moaned into the kiss, twisting my fingers in his brown curls. But he broke the kiss before we got too heated and ended up making love tonight. "Let's get to bed darlin'. We've got a long ride on horseback tomorrow."

“Oh hang on. Someone’s calling me.” I put my phone up to my right ear hearing my sister’s voice.

“Alissa, are you free tomorrow?”

I looked at my husband confused. “Uh no. I’m going to bring down cattle for the branding. Why is something wrong at our ranch?”

“The lawyers are coming up tomorrow. Mom has to sign over the ranch to us after what happened to daddy.”

Bringing my freehand to my mouth I blinked through some heavy tears having to remember what happened when our families were attacked a year ago. “I - um - can you hold them off until I come back in a few days. This is really important for both our ranches since I’ll be helping brand our cattle too.”

“I’ll see what I can do. Just be safe out there.” My sister responded before I hung up the phone.

“Yeah, you guys two.” Kayce gently touched my arm before I flung my body against his sobbing heavily before I had even looked him in the eye. He knew what had happened during the family attack had changed me and my family for the rest of our lives.

[colorfulrunawaytragedy]

Chapter Two: Silent Savior

The house on the corner wasn’t much to look at, but Carter had gotten used to that. Foster homes always fell into two categories—meticulously polished and soulless, or rundown and neglected. This one, with its too-perfect lawn and flower boxes brimming with cheerful daisies, leaned toward the former. The curtains always looked freshly ironed, the doormat was pristine, and the porch light never flickered. The family inside was the kind Carter didn’t quite know what to do with. David and Maria smiled too often, spoke too softly, and never raised their voices—not even when the youngest foster kid, Rosie, knocked over an entire jug of orange juice at breakfast.

��Accidents happen,” Maria had said, reaching for a towel with a serene smile.

Carter had braced himself that day, ready for the shouting or the slam of a hand on the table. It never came. It wasn’t just the lack of anger that threw him off. It was the consistency. David, a stocky man with graying hair and an easy laugh, was always asking how Carter’s day was or offering to help him with his homework. Maria, with her patient eyes and endless supply of casseroles, acted like she genuinely cared about the kids in her home. But it was too much. Too nice. Carter wasn’t used to kindness without strings attached. He waited for the other shoe to drop, for the inevitable punishment that followed even the smallest mistake. But it never came. Despite the stability they offered, Carter couldn’t shake the restlessness in his chest. His father might have been a mess—a man whose life was a chaotic swirl of poor choices and broken promises—but he was Carter’s mess. And no amount of fresh-baked cookies or warm smiles could fill the ache of missing him. 

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

That night, after yet another failed attempt to scrounge up something worth pawning, Carter trudged home. The streets were quiet, lit only by the soft glow of street lamps. His hoodie pockets were empty, and his stomach growled, a constant reminder of his failed mission. He was halfway home when he spotted her. She was sitting on the porch of a small, weathered house across the street from his foster home. Wrapped in a chunky sweater, she held a steaming mug in her hands. A plate of cookies rested beside her, untouched. Her eyes met his, soft and unassuming, and something about her presence made him pause.

“Long day?” she asked, her voice low and gentle, like she already knew the answer.

Carter froze. His instinct told him to keep walking, to avoid the conversation. But her tone wasn’t probing. It wasn’t nosy or pitying—it just was.

“Something like that,” he mumbled, his hands shoved deeper into his pockets.

She nodded toward the step beside her. “Come sit. There’s enough for two.”

Carter hesitated, but the warmth of her voice—and the smell of chocolate wafting from the mug—won out. He climbed the steps and settled onto the porch. She handed him a mug without a word and nudged the plate of cookies toward him.

“Thanks,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

The cocoa was hot, sweet, and richer than anything he’d tasted in months. He sipped it slowly, unsure of what else to say. She didn’t push. They sat in silence, the kind that wasn’t awkward or heavy. It felt... safe. For the first time in a long time, Carter felt the tightness in his chest loosen, just a little. The sound of tires crunching gravel broke the quiet. Her movements shifted instantly. She set her mug down with deliberate care, her shoulders stiffening as she glanced at the driveway.

“That’s my husband,” she said, her voice calm but clipped. Her hand twitched slightly, like she wanted to reach for Carter but thought better of it. “Just follow my lead, okay?”

Carter’s pulse quickened as he saw the man step out of the car. He was tall and broad, his sharp eyes scanning the porch before landing on Carter. There was nothing warm about his gaze—it was cold, calculating, and predatory.

“Who’s this?” the man asked, his voice laced with false pleasantness.

She stepped forward, her body a shield between Carter and the man. “He’s one of the kids from the foster home across the street,” she said smoothly. “I was just about to send him back.”

Her tone was calm, but Carter caught the tension in her shoulders, the way her fingers gripped the edge of the porch railing just a little too tight. She turned back to Carter, handing him a thermos and a bag of cookies like they were old friends. She ruffled his hair in an almost motherly gesture and smiled—a soft, careful thing that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“You better get going,” she said, her voice steady. “Maria will be worried if you’re late.”

Carter nodded, clutching the thermos tightly as he stood. He forced himself to walk down the steps, feeling the man’s eyes boring into his back. He didn’t look back until he reached the sidewalk. The sight made his stomach churn. The man had wrapped an arm around her waist, his grip too tight to be affectionate. Her body was stiff, her smile plastered and false. She waved at Carter, her hand trembling just slightly. Carter waved back, but his chest ached. 

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

That night, lying in his bed, Carter couldn’t stop thinking about her. About the way her entire demeanor had shifted when her husband came home. About the careful way she spoke, the way she’d shielded him without hesitation. It hit him then—she hadn’t questioned him, hadn’t pried, because she understood. She knew what it was like to just need a moment of peace without explaining yourself.

Taglist: @yourgirlypop

[countrymusiclover]

36 - Love Ain’t Complicated Anymore

Part 37

Country Rancher

Tags @whateverthecostner @rosie-posie08 @kaycejdutton @kayceduttonn @kcloveswrestling @the-morning-star-falls @kaymudd @hcwthewestwaswcn

Shutting the truck door my boots hit the muddy dirt. I had gone into town to get some stuff Bree had asked for since the baby was making her life miserable today. Carrying my hat in my freehand I saw Lioyd was climbing down from his horse. “Morning Lloyd, how is everything going with the cattle? I am sorry that Kayce and I have been so busy with our daughter and all.”

“You ain’t gotta apologize for that, Y/n. The family of this place is what matters. The cattle don’t have to bother with our life.” He responded back, coming to lean against the metal fence.

Sitting the bag of groceries down on the ground I smiled putting my hands on my hip. “I wanted to thank you. For helping ne when Kayce and I were fighting. It wasn't right for Bree to see that so I'm glad she had you there."

“Your little darling is so sweet. If she’s anything like you dear she will turn out to be a very good mamma…Hey, I was heading up to the rodeo tonight would ya’ll want to come with me?” He asked tipping his hat to me, smiling.

Grabbing the bag of stuff I heard the front door open with Maxon barking his head off as he ran down the porch steps. Bree stopped holding her hands up when he placed his front paws on her growing stomach. “Easy boy. I won’t get her going down steps.” She explains seeing that he wasn't letting her move another step.

"Maxon! Here boy." I called hitting my hands on my knees where he dropped on all fours rushing over to me. “Hey little B go find your siblings and tell them to get ready for the rodeo tonight. LIoyd is taking us there for the evening.”

She nodded, turning on her heels and up the wooden stairs. “Alright mamma.”

Entering the main house with the golden retriever following me at the heel of my boots. Going upstairs to our bedroom I shut the door knowing that Kayce was finishing up something in the barn since it wouldn’t take him as long to get ready. Pushing some shirts away I gasped catching a box that I had put up on a shelf not really remembering what was inside of it. Laying the lid down I gasped feeling some tears seeing a picture of Lee and I hugging one another in a sidebar at a rodeo when Bree was still a baby. "Oh Lee, I hope you were right about us…"

"I feel uneasy about not carrying around my little girl right now." I admitted to him while we were sitting on some barstools waiting for the events to start.

The eldest Dutton sent me a look smiling back at me. "Look, I don't think it would be hard to be away from her. But I think you deserve a night out where you can have adult fun."

"I appreciate it, Lee. I haven’t really been out of the house since forever…" I paused hearing a familiar song playing where I sat my beer bottle down squealing. "Oh my gosh. I love this song!"

Lee sat his drink down, tipping his hat and offering me his freehand smirking down at me. "Do you wanna dance with Y/n?"

"Sure thing, cowboy." Placing my hands in his we headed away from the bar so we had room to dance. He placed his right hand in mine. I put my hand on his shoulder and his other on my hip.

Lee started singing slowly, twirling me underneath his arm when he spun me out and back into his chest. "I wonder what he's doing. (Love ain't) feelin' like a fool and. (You can't). Keep lettin' him do it to you, uh. 'Cause love ain't you on a sidewalk in your new dress all alone."

"Love ain't you callin' me 'cause he ain't pickin' up his phone. The way you're talkin' sounds like he's somebody you should hate. I may not know what love is girl, but I know what love ain't." I sang meeting his gaze spinning him under my arm as best as I could, making him lose his hat and it fall on the ground.

He chuckled, picking it up off the ground dusting it off. He sits in on my head before we finish the ending of the song. "I may not know what love is girl, but I know what love ain't. Come over, let me show you what he can't. 'Cause he can only show you what love ain't. Love ain't (love ain't) yeah yeah. (Love ain't) love ain't."

"Y/n, the thing between you and my brother is complicated. And I understand if you don't want to give him another chance since he left you when he got another girl pregnant. But I do think ya'll can find your way back to one another." Kayce's oldest brother declared squeezing my hands intertwined with his.

Grinning up at him I hope that he was right and one day I did find my way back to him like the romantic couple would in the movies. "Maybe one day you are right, Lee. We will have a fairytale life of some sort."

"Come on kiddos. This way I'll get us some good seats." LIoyd pushed the twins along with Bree and Tate following after him.

I paused in my step leaning against the fence sniffing a little since we had passed the bar that Lee and I had gone to when we were split up. Kayce walked up to me resting a hand on my shoulder seeing that I was a little upset. "Hey, you alright honey?"

"I uh - I came here with your brother Lee. And he…he told me that he hoped that we would find our way back to each other." I sniffled feeling some tears falling down until he cupped my face in his larger hands making me look into his brown eyes.

He pressed his forehead down onto mine and sniffed through some tears of his own. "Hey now. Don't focus on the past. We can't change what happened…but he was right. We are meant to be together, you and I. We are a team. I love you, my sweet darling."

"I love you too, Kayc…I'm sorry about this. I shouldn't be getting emotional when this is a night with the kids." He puts a finger to my lips, cutting me off before he wiped away the stray tears.

"Don’t shut your emotions out. Alright you know what we are going to do. We are going on a date night tomorrow just the two of us. Because we need some time away from our kids even though I know we love them like crazy.”

Burying my face against his chest gripping his jacket in my fingers he put his chin on top of my head. Footsteps ran over to us where we saw that it was Elsa who was wearing Lioyd’ hat on her head where it was way too big. “Mommy. Daddy, I want to rodeo when I grow up.”

“Well sweet girl. You have to wait until you're big enough to ride a horse on your own. But I bet Uncle Lloyd will be thrilled to teach you.” Picking her up from the ground Kayce ruffled her hair handing him back his hat when we went to find our seats.

Kayce wrapped his arm around my waist mumbling into my ear when I leaned into his embrace seeing the kids all entertained by the events. “You don’t have to hide anything from me, love. I will always be here.” I felt a pit in my gut at his words since I hadn’t yet told him about Jaime’s phone call the other night. But that would be a problem for down the road hopefully.

Comments really appreciated ❤️

[romaevelizz]

|| ˖ ࣪⊹ Carter Dutton-Wheeler

˖ ࣪⊹

- Sandpaper (x oc!)

[romaevelizz]

anyone interested in reading Oc x Character idk if yellowstone is a real active fandom on her but i recently got into it and i love carter he’s such a cutie! just kinda putting this out there i dint have anything written up but i know what it’s gonna be on about. Basically teenager summer love vibe!

[i-heart-yellowstone]

33 - Coming up on Fall Break

Part 34

Raised Fair Share of Hell

Please leave comments of your thoughts or any suggestions ❤️

Dutton ranch - Alissa’s pov 

Gator had finished up making dinner around the same time that John and Madeline had returned from their evening horse ride on the property.  Beth and Rip had kept the tradition of sitting at the living room table and eating dinner. Simply to avoid Beth biting someone’s head off about eating in the room with the dining room table. 

Carrying Madeline in my arms I sat her down in the chair beside her brother Tate.  Carter sat on the other side of him then it went to Rip and Beth.  That left me, Kayce and John on the other side of her.  

Comfortable silence filled the room along with the crackling of embers in the fireplace until Carter chuckled over in Madeline’s direction.  “Has your grandpa ever told you the story of the biggest snake he saw?” 

“No.  Why?  How big was it, grandpa?” The eight year old leaned forward eyeing her grandfather. 

John answered, wiping his mouth with his napkin. “Six feet.” 

“That’s a big damn snake.” Tate cursed. 

I raised my tone at my son.  “Tate.” 

“Sorry, mom.” He apologized knowing he shouldn’t cuss in front of his sister. 

Carter turned his head from John and then to Rip wanting to tell the story to the youngest one at the dinner table.  “Can I tell her?  Can I please?” 

“Sure, kid.” Rip nodded, taking another bite of steak off his plate. 

Carter leaned forward in his chair beginning to tell the old snake story that I remembered from my childhood.  “They were rebuilding the horse stalls.  Rip was about your brother's age and when he saw it.  He did exactly what the rest of the other boys did.  He ran up the wall like a damn spider and hung from the rafters.” 

Everyone started laughing before Rip waved his finger adding onto the story.  “Discretion is the better part of valor.  And trust me, there was a ton of valor up in them rafters.” 

“Did you kill it, grandpa?” Madeline questions with her eyes sparking with curiosity. 

John set his fork down.  “Hell no, I didn’t kill it.  You know how many mice those things eat.  I wouldn’t let any of the other boys kill it either.” 

“I know one thing you’re daddy screamed like a girl so loud he nearly lost his voice the next day.” 

She giggled when I saw Kayce lower his head down to stare at his plate of food.  “I didn’t like snakes as a kid.  And I remember you not liking bats.” 

“Eww.  Don’t talk about’em.” I shoved him lightly not wanting to have a nightmare about those things later when we went to sleep. 

Madeline hit her hands on the table getting bored.  “So what happened to the snake?” 

“I had this old heeler dog way back when and he was meaner than shit - excuse me Alissa.” 

I spared my father in law a weak smile.  “It’s okay, John.” 

“Anyway he was cat-quick.  One day he found that snake and oh my god, those two, they went at it like nobody’s business.  Show her the box.” John gestured his head toward the black curly haired kid. 

Carter reached behind where he was seated grabbing a small rectangle box, sitting it in front of her plate.  “Be careful when you open this, Mads.” 

“Ahh! Daddy!” She carefully began to open the box but jumped when Kayce reached down and pinched her hip knowing she was ticklish there.  

Covering my mouth with my hands I didn’t want to spit out my food.  “And the family tradition lives on.” Kayce opened the box all the way and Carter took the snake tail out showing her how old it was.  Resting my chin in the palm of my hand I truly cherish these moments. 

Kayce heard someone knock on the front door about to get up till I grabbed his wrist.  “Who’s here so late?” 

“I’ll get it.  Sit down.  I’ll be right back.” Leaving the living room I pulled the front door opened revealing my sister and our mother.  “Hey ya’ll, what are you doing here so late?” 

Alana responded simply.  “We thought it was easier to come and tell you in person that we almost have everything we need for branding in a few weeks.” 

“That’s great news.  Faith should be coming home that weekend to help us out -“ My mother, sister and I turned our attention back to the living room where an idea came to my mind once I watched Tate and Carter start chasing Madeline through the house pretending to be ghosts.  “Would you want to join us for dinner?” 

“We’d love to.” Our mother grins shutting the front door with us following her back to the dining table. 

Texas Tech Campus - Faith’s pov 

“No. No. No. You’re cheating.” Dylan, Cooper’s roommate, smacks my hand away from reaching for the card deck to shuffle them. 

Raising my hands up in surrender I snapped back at him, not doing anything wrong from what directions I had been taught on how the game works.  “I’m not cheating.  I wouldn’t know how, considering you taught me the rules of Kemps for the first time ever in my life tonight.” 

“Don’t lie to me, Ms. Montana.” Dylan waved his finger at me. 

“Hey. Don’t be picking on my girlfriend.” Cooper warns his friend.  Caroline took the card deck from Dylan’s hand and began dealing out a new round of cards for our new game. 

“Cooper, I have been meaning to ask you something.  With break coming up and everything I was planning on going home for the time - and I was wondering would you want to come meet my family then?” 

Cooper nearly choked on his Dr. pepper.  “Meet your family.  Are you sure that’s a good idea so soon?” 

“I know we’ve only been together for a couple of weeks but I really like you and I want them to meet you.” I tucked some hair behind my ear out of nervousness.  “Unless you don’t like the idea.  I’ll completely understand-“ 

She hit her hand on the tile floor making noise to get their attention.  “Can we get back to playing the game.  Because we girls got to beat these boys at Kemps.” 

“I’ll meet your family, Faith.  I just hope they’ll like me.” He smiled in my direction and I mirrored his expression.  Cooper’s phone vibrated with an unknown caller ID when he got up from the floor stepping out into the hallway.  “Uh I’ll be right back.” 

Dylan stretched his arms out getting up from the ground as well.  “It’s getting late and I have an 8am tomorrow.  I’ll see you two tomorrow.” 

“Bye.” 

Caroline waved bye picking up the deck of cards.  “Bye Dylan.” 

“Hey um Caroline, can we have the room for a minute.  I need to tell my girlfriend something.” Cooper stepped back into the room. 

My roommate slipped into the hallway going to the bathroom.  “Sure.” 

“What do you want to talk about without her in the room huh?” I asked pushing myself up to stand seeing he was shifting his feet around which is his nervous tick that he does like with me tucking hair behind my ear. 

He leaned his back against the shut door, slumping his shoulders heavily.  “That was my dad.  He just finished my paperwork for me to start working the Patch.” 

“The Patch.  You’re talking about the oil rigs?” Cooper gave me a nine verbal head nod yes to my question.  “Why would you do that?” 

My boyfriend dropped his gaze to his boots, running a hand through his messy hair rather than looking me in the face.  “I - I’m failing my classes this semester.  I don’t think I can bust my ass enough to make it past midterms next week.” 

“Cooper, what’s the real reason?” My stomach was turning in knots at the thought of how dangerous this could be for him.  Ranching had its dangers but nothing like what working an oil rig does. 

He finally raised his head looking me in the eye.  “It’s the truth, Faith.  With my current grades I’d end up working some dead end job selling computer chips or some other shit.  I don’t want that to be my life.” 

“Oh Cooper - We’ll figure this out.” I crossed the room flinging my arms around his waist since he appeared like he needed a hug.  He wrapped his arms around my waist, laying his head on my shoulder. 

He whispered into my hair.  “God I hope your father won’t shoot me off the front porch.” 

“Hey! I ain’t met yours yet.  So I hope he won’t do that to me.” I chuckled and he raised his head giving me a weak smile back in response. 

Tag list @bvbwestfall @hcwthewestwaswcn @child-of-of-the-sunshine @elenavampire21 @keep-the-wolves-close @kmc1989 @tallrock35 @whatelsecouldgowrong @lover-of-books-and-tea

[romaevelizz]

Sandpaper ˖ ࣪⊹

Carter Dutton-Wheeler & oc!Crystal Maverick

2.) Supper

sum: Dinner time, and at that Beth stays at the dinner table! Later Carter and Tate show the Twins around.

warnings: cursing, ocs! non-canon story line. And yes Tate is like a year younger than Carter in this.

It didn't take long for Carter to clean himself up after the day's activities, but his thoughts continued to drift away, fixating on the maverick twins who had recently arrived. A spark of excitement fluttered in his chest at the idea of having kids his age nearby. He envisioned adventures and laughter, hoping that this would be a golden opportunity to break free from his days spent at the barn, which often felt like an endless cycle of chores and being bitched at.

He didn't quite understand why he had to be presentable as Beth put it, he'd already met them at his worst. Also wasn't like dinner lasted long at the big table. Drying his hair he walked out of the bathroom, a pair of clothes picked out for him. Nothing fancy but new clothes, to say the least, a new pair of wranglers and and nice dark blue button down.

Carter slipped the clothes on the jeans a bit tight form being new but it didn't bother him, clasping his belt he stood in front of the mirro. If there was one thing Beth was good as was dressing him that's for damn sure, “Thats a nice shirt I dont want to see you wearing it while you work.”

The melodious sound of Beth's voice cut through the quiet room, causing him to abruptly shift his gaze towards the door. He watched as she walked across the room. With a slight furrow in his brow, he nodded his head lightly, curiosity evident in his expression. “Why do we have to clean up?” he asked, his tone a mix of confusion and reluctant acceptance as he followed her with his eyes, taking in her presence as she approached him.

She hummed “Why not? Plus we have guest, I say it's an occasion just to get you in the shower.”

Carter rolled his eyes playfully at her, “Now common want you to be downstairs when they get here.”

“Alright, Mama ill be right down.” he spoke.

With that, he wasn't too far behind Beth coming down the stairs. Carters gaze met Tates who seemed a bit annoyed, per usual. Tate moved himself from his mother quickly going to Carter, “What has you in a mood?” Carter asked chuckling a bit.

Tate shrugged his shoulders “Tierd and who knows how this dinner is gonna end.” he sighed, Carter giving a small nod of understanding. Dinner as the Dutton family table was bound to go bad, or some time of shit would be stirred up.

A knock quite knock at the door caused the boys to look up, “Look who finally made it.” John chuckled bringing Elijah into a friendly hug.

“Hey an invite is an invite my friend.” Elijah’s deep voice laughed.

Carters’ eyes wandered around the room, searching for the twins. After a few moments, they finally entered, exchanging quick hellos and warm hugs with John, their cheerful energy lighting up the space. It didn’t take long for Carter’s gaze to land on her. As their eyes locked, a spark of recognition passed between them. She held his gaze, a small, inviting smile playing on her lips. Carter soon found himself returning her smile, a flutter of excitement stirring in his chest as he felt the familiar warmth on his cheeks.

As everyone entered the dining room, they were quickly ushered to their seats. The arrangement leaned towards separating the adults from the kids, with John taking the head of the table. Beth and Elijah flanked him, while Kayce and Monica sat beside Mr. Maverick. Tate and Mikey joined them on one side, while Carter, Crystal, and her friend Coraline sat with Beth and Rip on the other side. The seating created a clear divide, allowing for lively conversations among the different age groups.

Carter felt a warm sense of relief when things took this turn; it opened up a great chance for him to get to know her a bit more hopefully.

The table radiated warmth and connection, with Elijah engaging thoughtfully in conversation with the adults, especially Beth and John. Meanwhile, the kids shared their own world of chatter, filled with innocent laughter that seemed to linger in the air. Silly jokes and playful teasing bounced between the twins, creating a joyful atmosphere. It was heartwarming to discover that Beth had once babysat the twins, and that Tate had fond memories of their friendship, It had just been a few years since they'd seen each other.

Carter watched Crystal as she engaged with the group, a gentle warmth in her smile that seemed to light up the room. He took a moment to appreciate her features up close, feeling a sense of compassion for the kindnes and energy radiated in that moment. His eyes traded her facial features, her wide eyes and long lashes, the stubble amount of makeup she wore, the slight dimmple in her cheeks as she smiled, her lips lined and glossy with a slightly pinkish tint.

Carter was brought out of his gaze being kicked by Tate, a stupid knowledge ng grin on his face teasing Carter silently. Carter let out a hushed ow only scowling at his cousin as he rubbed his shin.

“Are you okay?”

His face looked as hers, their eyes meeting once again, he nodded a quiet “Yeah I'm fine.” leaving his lips. Her features softening hearing him grunt in an uncomfortable manner.

She looked at him a bit longer before speaking up again “Do you wanna go for a ride after dinner?” she asked quietly as if only to ask him.

“Like horses?” he stutterd quietly.

“No, on our bikes— yes the horses you doof!” she laughed softly,

Carter found him myself smiling out of embarrassment, god that was stupid he thought of Corse she was talking about horses. He glanced at her “Yeah if have to ask I don't really have my own horse ya know?”

She nodded “Gives me time to change into some jeans.” she smiled.

Carter nodded softly, a smile playing on his lips, before he and Crystal parted ways. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the fields as they made their plans to meet at the old barn later that afternoon. Carter felt a flutter of uncertainty in his chest; he wasn't sure whether it would be just the two of them or if Crystal intended to bring her brother and a friend along for the ride.

Regardless of who would be there, the thought of it sent a thrill through him. When Rip had agreed to let him go, Carter’s excitement bubbled over. He wasted no time excusing himself, feeling a burst of energy as he dashed toward the stables.

Gripping his hat tightly in one hand, he sprinted across the yard and down to the barn, his heart racing and breath coming in soft gasps. As he approached the barn, he began to slow down, the familiar scent of hay and leather wafting toward him, mingling with the cool evening breeze. The anticipation of what lay ahead filled him with a sense of warmth and eagerness.

There she was, well not just her. Tate, Elijah and Caroline were all with her as the saddled their own horse. “Took you long enough.” Tate spoke up throwing his saddle on to lucky.

“Sorry had to double-check that it was okay for me to come along.” Carter apologized, his eyes shifted to Crystal her usual smile already wide.

“It’s alright, I’m glad you’re able to come!” She exclaimed.

Carter couldn't suppress his grin as she exclaimed with excitement, "Of course you’re thrilled he can come." Mikey teased, taking the opportunity to poke fun at his sister. She shot him a quick glare, her eyes narrowing, and then swatted at him playfully, mickey letting out a little squel as he jumped back.

The group of teens finished adding their horsed and had moved out the the main field. Tate had suggested they go down to the small river, Carter was against the idea but that meant they would be riding back in the dark. Insted it would be a shortish ride to a small group of cattle was and back. the summer air was stil warm it was nice as the rode, Crystal taking the liberty of riding next to carter as they rode.

Her eyes watched him as he pointed out things and told her what was over the mountains, little did he know she already knew but let him continue talking. The joy in his voice as he described the view up the mountain and the spots they would settle to take breaks during the day. Crystal could tell he enjoyed this job, her focus on him as he talked. when carer took a momment he looked over at her, “What? Why are you looking at me like that?” he asked laughing a bit nervously.

She sat up quickly, laughing softly with him flusters she was caught lacking the way she was. “Nothing! Sorry I can just tell you love the job.” she spoke up.

The teens watching them exchanged soft, knowing smiles as they observed the lively conversation between the two. It was undeniable that there was a special connection, a spark that seemed to brighten their surroundings. Mikey could sense how his sister’s heart fluttered at the thought of it. He felt a mix of hope and concern, aware that this could lead either to something wonderful or a difficult situation. Yet, he knew it wasn’t his place to step in.

He and Corline couldn’t help but enjoy seeing how animated Crystal became whenever she spoke about him. She cherished every sweet moment, every shy laugh, and his endearing, awkward charm. He was not just good-looking and diligent; they shared passions and interests that made their time together feel effortless. With the summer stretching ahead of them, crystal was filled with anticipation, imagining how close they might grow in the following months. There was a world of possibility waiting for them, and she couldn’t help but dream about what could blossom between them.

They all eventually made it back to the barn puting everything away for the night, goodnightsexchanged between the teens. “hey ill be a minute.” Crys,tal spoke up still putting Theo away to Mikey and Coraline the two nodded as they headed out to the trailer. Well Mikey was staying up at the house with Tate Tonight the two boys wanted to catch up.

Her gaze started to linger on Carter for a moment he focused on putting things away, and she leaned her back up against the stall watching him a little longer before he found her eyes. “ Hi, sorry just strightinging things up so the mornings easier for me.” he said rubing his neck nervously.

She laughed softly pushing her body off the stall “It's okay, Do you not sleep up at the house?” she asked a small tilt of her head. She watched as Carter's feet shifted nervously, a grin tugging at her lips as she stepped closer to him.

“Is there anything I can help with?” her body was finally close enough to him that he was very much visibly nervous.

“Heh well not anymore theres hay and water in their stalls so theyre good for the night,” he spoke fiddling with his fingers. “It was fun hanging outwith you tonight.” he spoke up his voice quick.

She smiled “ It well had to do it again you work full days on weekends?” she asked taking in that tomorrow was Friday.

Carter shoo his head “ No i dont.”

“Good maybe we should head down to the river Saturday afternoon then! really want to go swimming!”

“well there is a lake we can ride to from here, its our neighbors, the nice ones they let kids us it, its no normally occupide cause its private propperty so sometimes they guys will go and swim in it.

She nodded “sounds fun we should do that then!”

The two exchanged warm smiles, acknowledging their plans for Saturday. Both felt a rush of excitement at the thought of spending time together again. They stood in silence for a moment, unsure of how to continue the conversation, but it didn’t feel awkward. Instead, their smiles lingered, and the shared eye contact created a subtle tension that added to the depth of the moment.

Crystals lips parted slightly he voice barely ablove a whiser “ Goodnight Carter, Ill see you in the moring make sure t sleep well.” her body stepping twords him their bodies close enough she could hear his heart beat fast and heavily, not that hers wasnt doing the same.

“Goodnight Crystal, Sleep well.” he spoke softly, soon watching as she walked out the barn. At the door she turned aroud giving him a final smile and wave before rushing off to her trailer.

Carter grabbed his chest feeling his heart beat heavy he felt sick but in a good way. He didn't know how to describe it, he groaned to himself. Why did hefeel like this he barely Knew her. Sure he hasnt interracted with women besides Teetr and Beth but they didnt count. He smiled to himself throwing his body up his eyes meeting Rip, Rip standing there watching him get all giddy like a girl.

“Shit! You scared me.” he said panicked,how much of that did he see he thought.

Rip hummed his eyes harsh as usual “ Dont be messing with her and getting yourself into any troube.”

“I wont sir, I dont hav any bad intentions shes nice is all…” carter mummbed.

Rip only shook his head he knew better, hell he was running aroung with thefarmers daugher for years. “ Im just saying, You better get yourself to bed. Goodnight.”

Carter nodded “Goodnight”

Carter listened carefully to Rip's concerns, understanding the weight they carried. Still, he couldn’t help but feel a flicker of hope amidst the worries. What was the worst that could happen? With a gentle smile, he reassured himself that he really wanted to embrace this new feeling. He had never experienced anything quite like it before and was eager to explore it further. In the depths of his heart, he believed that sometimes, stepping into the unknown could lead to something good.

tags:

@nomournersonefuneral

[colorfulrunawaytragedy]

Chapter Three: Fleeting Moments

The next morning, when Carter walked his foster siblings to the daycare, he had glanced toward the door, and saw her again. There she was, in her familiar sweater–draped over her shoulders– smiling warm and genuine as she guided the younger kids inside. When her eyes met his, her smile softened–even more than it did the day before. 

“Good morning,” she greeted him, her voice soft but light.

“Morning,” he replied, his own voice uncharacteristically bright.

She looked at him for a moment, her eyes kind but searching, before returning to her task. Carter lingered just a second longer than he usually would before heading off to school.

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

Over the following months, Carter began to anticipate their brief morning exchanges. It was a small thing, just a smile, a kind word, or a subtle acknowledgment that she saw him—not just in passing, but truly saw him.  It started small—comments about school or his siblings—but gradually, he began to open up.

One morning, after dropping off his siblings, he admitted, “I’ve been saving up.”

She tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her eyes. “For what?”

“To find my dad,” he said, his voice tinged with both determination and uncertainty. “It’s gonna take a while, but I’ll get there.”

Her expression softened, but there was something else there too—a shadow of worry.

“Just make sure you’re careful, okay?” she said gently.

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

Day after day, he found excuses to linger a little longer, to catch a glimpse of her. Little by little, they started to talk. She told him about her life in small, guarded pieces–her words careful as though her pain was hidden between lines– and he told her about his. Never once did she push him to talk, but when he did, she listened. She listened without judgment, and in her presence, Carter felt something he hadn’t in a long time—safe. 

Their connection grew slowly but steadily. She’d ask about his day, and he’d return the favor. Sometimes, she’d let bits of her life slip out—small pieces that Carter pieced together like a puzzle. He noticed how her smile faltered when certain topics came up, how her hands trembled slightly when she thought no one was looking. 

But it wasn’t until one day after school that Carter realized how much he cared about her well-being.

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

When he arrived at the daycare to pick up his siblings, she wasn’t there. His stomach dropped as he approached the desk, trying to sound casual.

“Where’s, uh… the lady who’s usually here?” he asked.

“Oh, she called out sick today,” one of the staff members replied.

The rest of the day passed in a blur. He tried to focus on school, but the thought of her absence gnawed at him. After the final bell rang, he bolted toward her house. Her husband’s car wasn’t in the driveway, so Carter rang the doorbell, his heart pounding. When the door opened, he froze. She stood there, bruises marring her face and arms. Her eyes were tired, her movements slow, but she still managed a soft smile when she saw him. His heart sank at that. 

“Carter,” she said, her voice trembling slightly.

Without thinking, he stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her, careful not to hurt her.

“You have to leave,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “Please. You don’t have to stay with him.”

She rested a hand on his shoulder, her touch feather-light. “It’s too late for me,” she said, her voice breaking. “But it’s not too late for you.”

Carter shook his head, his frustration bubbling to the surface. “You don’t have to do this alone. You don’t have to stay!”

She gave him a sad smile and pressed an envelope into his hands. “Use this to find your dad,” she said. “Promise me you won’t stop fighting for something better.”

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

After that, Carter couldn't help but feel like their time together was limited, so he spent every spare moment he could with her. He’d visit her before school, after school, and even on the weekends when her husband was away. She’d make cocoa, they’d sit on the porch, and they’d talk—or sometimes just sit in silence, enjoying the brief reprieve from the world. She shared stories of her younger years, her voice soft with nostalgia but heavy with regret. Carter told her about his dad, his hopes, and his fears. It felt like they were kindred spirits, two lost souls trying to make sense of the lives they’d been dealt.

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

On the last day of the week—just like he always did—Carter arrived at her house after school. And there she was, sitting on the porch, just like the first time he’d met her. A plate of cookies and a steaming mug of cocoa sat beside her. Except this time, she greeted him with a smile brighter than usual.

“I wanted to say goodbye properly,” she said.

His chest tightened as he sat beside her. She handed him a small chain with an initial and a cross at the end.

“Something to remember me by,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Tears welled in his eyes as she hugged him tightly. “I’ll never stop looking for you,” she said.

A car engine rumbled in the distance. Her husband’s car pulled into the driveway, and the weight of the moment pressed down on them both. “Go,” she whispered, her voice urgent. “You have to go.”

Carter stood, clutching the chain in his hand, and ran. He didn’t look back, but her words stayed with him: Fight for something better. 

He would. For her. For himself. 

And he did. But he’d never forget her. 

Taglist: @yourgirlypop

[countrymusiclover]

33 - What's Enough Proof?

Part 34

Country Rancher

Tags @whateverthecostner @rosie-posie08 @kaycejdutton @kayceduttonn @kcloveswrestling @the-morning-star-falls @kaymudd @hcwthewestwaswcn @hcllfireandhclywater

Walking up from the barn the lights were on inside the main house which I found strange since it was past dinner time. I decided to go on a sunset ride just needing to be outside so I didn’t have to remember that I was raising a five year old on my own. “Little Be you’re supposed to be in bed.” I noticed her sitting on the couch in front of the fireplace.

“Grandpa gives me milk.” She replied in her childish voice with a tired smile.

She was cuddling with her little brown pony stuffed animal that I had bought before she was born. She was laying underneath a cameo blanket where I could see she was almost about to go to sleep. “Well I am happy to see that you like your grandpa. He’s pretty cool.”

“Sorry Y/n. She came into my bedroom saying she wasn’t tired. So I thought about making her some warm milk. It usually would put me to sleep when I wasn’t tired.” John came around the corner from the kitchen holding a light green coffee cup sitting beside her.

Sitting on the other side of my daughter intertwining my hands together my eyes locked onto his. “It’s fine John. It usually takes me almost an hour to put her down for bed. So any trick you have I’ll gladly take.”

He holds the cup so Bree could just slowly take sips and not burn her hands. Her eyes began to fall closed so I rose to my feet gently picking her up over my shoulder and her pony too. “She’s precious Y/n. Every time I look at her I can only imagine that my wife would have loved her and you.”

He followed me into Bree’s bedroom watching me lay her down under the covers. Kissing her forehead I softly closed her door behind me careful not to wake her up. “I bet I would have enjoyed her like I do you, Mr. Dutton. There’s only one thing I am certain of..I want her to have a better life than I did. Even though her daddy has left us.”

“No matter what my son has done, this is a promise Y/n. You and Bree will always have a place here. I won’t abandon you and my granddaughter.” He opened his arms and I wrapped my arms around his neck hugging him. He squeezed me back gently mumbling into my ear. “This family doesn’t abandon anyone willing to fight with and for us.”

I had no choice but to put all the kids in the truck following my husband back to the main house. I couldn’t let him beat the crap out of one of his father’s ranch hands. Now Carter was the father of my grandchild. Hitting the brakes when we pulled in the driveway I turned to my eldest instructing her. “Bree, I want you to listen to me right now. Take your brother and sister inside the house and no matter what you hear you don’t come out.”

“What are you going to do, mom? I should be the one handling it. He is mad at me for what I said.” Bree responded in disappointment.

Grasping her hands in mine I tucked some hair behind her ear for her. “No sweetheart, it's not your job. I am your mother so I will take care of this. Just watch out for your siblings alright.”

“Mommy!” Dallas called out from the backseat before Bree helped the two twins out of the truck dragging them by the arm inside the main house.

Gripping the steering wheel in my hands I bend my head down laying it there for a few minutes. I honestly thought Kayce and I would’ve been past these little fights. The ones that the kids had to see which always makes me feel guilty. Getting out of the truck I could hear a commotion coming from one of the fenced areas where we broke in new horses. “Come here you little idiot. You’ve got some explaining to do on why you had to get my daughter pregnant!”

Shooting my gaze off into the distance Lloyd and the others that had stayed at the ranch were coming back from the long nights work. “Ms. Y/n, what is Kayce arguing with the kid about. I don’t think I have ever seen him this mad.” Lioyd dismounts his horse walking over to me.

“The short version is that Bree is pregnant and Carter is the father. Now Kayce just found out and he is furious with him. He wouldn’t listen to us when we said that Carter said he wouldn’t leave Bree and the baby like Kayce did me.” Shrugging my shoulders I wiped my head around hearing my husband grunt taking a swing at Carter.

Carter ducked underneath his attack trying to get in a fighting stance but Kayce managed to knock him on his ass and into the dirt. “Urgh Mr. Dutton I’m sorry - just give me a chance to explain.”

“Kayce!” I bolted towards the wooden fence quickly climbing over the wood and dropping down on my boots, getting them dirty but I didn’t care. Runners at him I jumped in front of Carter before my husband could take another swing at the teen. “Kayce enough. He doesn’t deserve to be kicked around for caring about our daughter!”

He turned his hands into fists at his sides shouting down at me like we were children fighting over the last cookie in the cookie jar. “If he cared about her then she wouldn’t be knocked up pregnant. He clearly doesn’t care about her at all.”

“God dang it Kayc! He’s doing a lot better than you when I was pregnant.” I shoved my hands against his chest making him stumble backwards. “Bree told me that he was going to stay because he cares about her and he doesn’t have anywhere better to go.”

Carter slowly rose to his feet standing behind me dusting off some dirt from his clothes. “Mr. Dutton, I…I promise I do really care about Bree. I…we have matching bracelets…” He rolled up the sleeve of his shirt on his right arm where I smiled seeing that it was still the same brown bracelet with a gold horseshoe that Bree had made for him the day she told him that she liked him.

“Kayce see he’s not lying.” I pointed my index finger at Carter praying that it was enough to convince him that I was telling the truth. “You know your father told me something when Bree was five. He said that this family looks out for the ones who choose to stand and fight by your side.”

“He doesn’t wear the brand like the cowboys on the bunkhouse and Teeter do.” He scoffed, throwing his arms away from his sides.

Glaring at my husband I knew he had a point. It was a few years before I finally got the brand. But it was for life so I didn’t want to force the kids to do something like that. “You can’t be serious, Kayce?”

“What’s the brand?” Carter asked, shifting his gaze between the two of us.

Kayce took one step forward where our chest was pressed against each other. Lifting my head up a little I locked onto those soft brown eyes that were trained on mine. “I am serious Y/n. If he wants me to believe that he truly cares about our little girl then he becomes a part of the Yellowstone.”

He walked away after turning on his heels, closing the front door in some anger. Slumping my shoulders in defeat I run my fingers through my long hair. “Mrs. Dutton, what exactly did he mean by the brand. What is it?”

“It’s a vow of life, Carter.” Spinning on my feet I pulled down part of my shirt revealing the now healed Y on my chest. Brushing my hands over my shirt I saw his face turn from confused to utter shock. “When you wear the brand like a cattle, you are committing yourself to this place forever. Until the day you die. I will never force any of my children to bear the mark unless they want to and I would never dream of making you do something like until you were ready-“

Carter stepped closer to me finally keeping his gaze locked onto mine when he delivered his next words. “Would that prove to him that I am serious about Bree…” Nodding my head slowly, yes he paused for a moment. “Then I’ll do it.”

“Carter, there’s always a choice here. I - I can talk to my husband and make him see that there can be another way.” He cut me off making me gasp at the thought that he would vow his life to this place to prove he was good enough for my first child.

He picked his tan hat up from the dust sitting on his head giving me the best brave look he could. “I’ll do it Mrs. Dutton….I’ll take the brand for Bree.”

Comments really appreciated ❤️

[countrymusiclover]

37 - You're my Evelyn, and I'm your John

Part 38

Country Rancher

Tags @whateverthecostner @rosie-posie08 @kaycejdutton @kayceduttonn @kcloveswrestling @the-morning-star-falls @kaymudd @hcwthewestwaswcn

Pushing some clothes into a suitcase Kayce and I had decided that we were going to a little cabin off the ranch for the weekend. Tying my brown boots and putting my hair up in a braid falling down my back. "I got my stuff in the truck and called the hotel so we are all set up." 

Kayce came into the bedroom making the wooden floor creak underneath his boots. He tossed his hat onto the bed wrapping his arms around my waist from behind. "I have almost everything packed. Now we just have to tell the kids that we are going away." 

"Are we sure it is a good idea to leave the kids with Lioyd and the bunkhouse boys?" He asked, resting his forehead against mine. 

Running my fingers through his hair I pulled my head back looking into his brown eyes. "Look, I know we are worried about Bree's pregnancy. But as you said that we deserve a date night away from our children now and then." 

"The last time we left Bree and Carter alone he got her pregnant-" He attempted to say. 

Raising a brow at him I shook my head pulling myself out of his grasp shutting the suitcase lid and handing it to him. "That may be true, Kayc. But I know for a fact people didn't agree with what we were doing. Dancing around about our feelings forever. Now four beautiful children and a grandchild are on the way." 

"I'll see you downstairs, darlin'." He sent me a nod grabbing his hat on his head leaving the bedroom. 

Grabbing my brown jacket from the closet I headed down the stairs seeing that the kids were all outside on the porch since it was early in the morning. Carter was saddling his horse with the others getting ready for work since there are no weekends on a ranch. "Hey you guys. You're daddy and I are going out this weekend and we will be back on Sunday. So you will be staying here with Lioyd and the others. I just want you to promise me that you will behave while we are gone." 

“You and dad are gonna kiss really loud again aren’t you?” Elsa asked where I made a face at her words especially when she mentioned her big sisters. They were smarter to notice these things than we thought they would at such a young age. “Bree did the same thing with Carter.” 

Bending down on my knees I opened my arms and they both embraced me in tight hugs. “Alright kiddos. We will talk about that later. I love you guys and we will be back…Tate look out for them you understand.” 

“Sure mamma.” He responded making me smile that he was comfortable calling me that even though I wasn’t his mother by blood. Walking down the stairs I got in his truck brushing my hands down the light blue dress I was wearing with my boots. Kayce said that we were going somewhere fancy since we didn’t have the kids but he wouldn’t tell me where we were going specifically. 

The drive was normal into town before he pulled the truck into the parking lot. It was a large cabin that was an open window restaurant that overlooked the landscape of Montana. He pulled out my chair for me where I sent him a smile removing my hat sitting on the back of my chair. “I wanted to change up our lives. Considering the last time we had a date we had to rush and found the sheriff shot. So here’s to a redo darlin’.” 

“Here’s to a redo, Kayc. I am rather surprised you put on a tie.” I pointed out that he was wearing his normal tan jacket and a dress shirt but it wasn’t a full on black suit that he would wear during a wedding or funeral. He was wearing a light tie alongside it. 

The waitress came over eyeing Kayce until I sent her a glare showing her my ring where she dropped her smirk. “What can I get you two?” 

“We will split the steak and some beers.” He told her where she glanced back at him while she walked away. Clutching my hands into fists on the table he reached across, making me shake my jealousy. “Easy honey. I married you didn’t I. You’ve got nothing to worry about from that girl.” 

She brought our food back where we split the steak, eating quietly sending smirks back to each other. I wanted to tell him about what Jaime said to me the other night. It was weighing in on me and making me nervous about whether he might come after me. We finished our dinner and went back to the cabin that he had rented for the night. He pushed open the door letting me inside first where I leaned up on my toes kissing him for the first time tonight. “We don’t have to worry about the kids tonight cowboy…and I only say that because they said they could hear us.” 

“Well they will understand one day. And I am not going to apologize for lovin’ on you. You’re just too hard to resist.” He wrapped his arms around my waist tugging me into his embrace. I smirked, wrapping my arms around his neck mirroring his smirk when he stared down at me like that. 

He leans down, having me jump up and wrap my arms tighter around his neck. He moved his hands so he was holding me by my legs until we fell back onto the soft bed. “You don’t make it any easier for me either.” I declare running my fingers through his hair watching him reach for the bottom of my dress slowly pulling it over my head and tossing it somewhere on the floor. 

Moving my hands up to the buttons of his shirt I started undoing them. At the same time he was untying the tie, yanking it over his head grinning ear to ear, crashing his lips onto mine hungerly. “I know that four kids is a handful but I could do this everyday with you…” He muttered, removing his lips down onto my neck making me moan the second he hit my certain spot. 

“Kayce!” Gripping the brown curly locks he moaned, running his fingers over my body slowly entering me. We rolled underneath the covers enjoying the feeling so much more than I remembered. It didn’t take long for us to both reach our high where we broke the kiss panting like crazy. 

He rested his forehead against mine before he flopped down onto my bedside. Rolling over to face him I gasped laying my head on his bare chest listening to his heartbeat. “I love you more than I thought I could anymore….Y/n you are my Evelyn.” 

“Oh Kayce..” I could see tears forming in his eyes. Leaning up on my elbow I pressed my lips onto his where he smiled into the gentle kiss until I broke it. "How about we go to the bathroom hmm?" 

He immediately jumped up tossing the covers aside and I squealed when he scooped me up in his arms carrying me into the bathroom. We both climbed into the bathtub throwing some water around onto the floor. He wrapped his arms around me where I sat on his lap deeply kissing me. "You are a brilliant woman. Stubborn as a horse and beautiful it makes me weak to my knees everytime." 

"You really are trying to have baby number five aren't you, baby…" I moaned when he cupped my face in his hands tilting my head so the kiss would go deeper. 

He broke it tracing some patterns on my bare shoulders smirking. "Are you saying you don't love me? I mean there should be a bunch of kids running around our ranch." 

"You're ridiculous!" Splashing water in his face he glared at me pushing some back at md where we both now soaked but both grinning regardless. "Of course I love you, Kayce. In fact if I am you're Evelyn then you are my John." 

Pressing my lips onto his I lay my head on his bare chest feeling him wrap his arms around my waist. He rested his chin on top of my forehead. "Bless my boots sweet girl. We might never leave this hotel room." 

"I just might hold you to that, babe." I responded by lifting my head up when he crashed his lips onto mine filling the room with our desires of round two. 

Comments really appreciated ❤️

[countrymusiclover]

35 - Letter Storm

Part 36

Country Rancher

Tags @whateverthecostner @rosie-posie08 @kaycejdutton @kayceduttonn @kcloveswrestling @the-morning-star-falls @kaymudd @hcwthewestwaswcn

Thunder roared outside the large windows of the Dutton house. Kayce and I had called in today and asked the assistant to call us if it was an emergency. I had started working at the Livestock Office again since the Sheriff and I no longer have issues. Rummaging around in the bag that Bree had found the other day with letters from Spencer and Cara Dutton. Picking up the pile of papers I headed into the living room seeing my husband sitting on the couch. "Where are the kids at, Kayc?"

"Tate is playing with the twins inside the barn. And I think Carter and Bree are upstairs thinking of baby names. Oh and don't tell her but I took one of the security cameras from work and hid it in her room." He sends me a smirk while I round the couch plopping down beside him.

Raising a brow at his words there were some times that he went overboard. This was one of those moments. "Kayce, don't you think that is a little much. I mean she's already pregnant."

"Doesn't mean they can't still sleep together again, darling. What are those letters you have?" He draped his arm behind me scooting closer seeing the envelopes in my lap.

Unfolding one of the letters I had pulled out I lay my head on his chest with him moving his arm to wrap around my waist. "Bree found them one morning. I haven’t read any of them so I just thought it would be interesting too. They seem to be dated from your ancestors named Spencer and Cara Dutton.”

"Well go ahead and read one then." He told me simply looking up at the window seeing that the rain was starting to pick up and hit the glass softly.

Shifting so I was snuggled up against his warm embrace I cleared my throat attempting to read the old handwriting. "Alex, I am not good at writing. I am just a man of action who doesn't waste moments in life. When I met you I was struggling with what happened during the war. I didn't really care what happened when I was hunting animals. You have made my life better since then so I decided to write this letter to you. For when we are reunited at my family's ranch. I will find a way back to you, Spencer."

"I think I remember dad mentioning that there was a hunter in our family. What do the other ones say, Y/n?" He asked me to move some of them around and hand me another one. He honestly enjoyed it when I would read to him like he was still a child. I figured it had something to do with losing his mother at such a young age.

I did wish some days that I could get to know my mother in law. Be able to tell her how much I loved and adored her youngest son. That she could see her beautiful grandchildren the way John does. Evelyn Dutton was missed by everyone in this household. "Um let's see. Oh here's one that's written from Alex I think…Dear Spencer, I am burning to be with you again. I managed to get off the ship we were on and am now hoping to find passage to Montana. My love for you only grows during the time we are apart. Until we reunite, my love.”

“Awe this is so sweet. I can’t believe that they were separated.” My husband responded back, lifting up and meeting my gaze. We heard footsteps coming from down the stairs where we both turned our heads seeing our daughter and Carter.

Bree had her bag in her hands, sending me a look. “Hey mom. Dad, could we go get something to eat in town. I am craving ice cream and we are out?”

Kayce and I turned our heads back at each other both sharing the same look. The rain had stopped for a little bit and it wasn’t supposed to storm any worse until later tonight. “I guess so but just remember that you need to be back before the storm comes. I don’t want any of my children outside tonight.”

“We will be. Thanks uh…Mrs. Dutton.” Carter tipped his hat, taking my daughter’s hand in his, leading her out the front door towards the truck since he was old enough to drive now.

It was an hour after they left that the thunder and lightning had begun picking up. Kayce had gone to bring the other kids inside the house and close up the barn. Closing the fridge I had put some microwaved pizza on some plates giving them to the kids to eat. Kayce and I had crawled into bed where he opened one of the drawers of the nightstand beside the bed. He pulled out a notepad showing it to me. “I went and snooped in our daughter's room and I found this. I think that’s why she was keeping the letters.”

“She was thinking of baby names. Jewels, Gordon, Harrison, Spencer and Olivia.” I read off the names on the list seeing the lights of the house flickering on and then remained off longer where when they came back on we heard multiple sets of feet on the wooden floor.

The bedroom door got kicked open suddenly where we lifted up noticing that Elsa and Dallas were huddled together. “Mommy, can we sleep with you?” She asked, squeezing her teddy bear to her chest.

“Of course, sweetie.” I patted the bedside where she ran forward climbing up and getting in between her daddy and I.

Kayce turned his focus back to his younger son seeing that he was standing in the doorway. “You want up here too, bud. You’re mother and I don’t mind.” The lights went off again where he made a noise at us.

He still remained standing there glancing out into the hallway until I heard Tate’s voice. “Dad, he’s acting like me…I thought I was too old too - ah!” He jumped now standing behind his younger brother, sending us a concerned look.

“Come on Tate. Age don’t matter right now.” Tossing the covers aside I picked up my little boy in my arms waiting for Kayce’s other child to climb in our bed. The power completely went out where the twins latched onto us in fear.

Tate layed his head on my stomach hearing the front door get slammed open telling us that his sister was home. I didn’t feel like getting out of the bed so I just texted her that I was happy she was safe. “At least they got home safe. Now our kids are here.” Kayce draped his arm over my shoulder kissing my forehead.

Shutting my eyes I was about asleep until my phone went off on the nightstand. I scooted myself out of the bed doing my best to not wake up the kids since it was hard enough getting them to sleep when there was a heavy storm. Stepping into the hallway I didn’t check the caller ID. “Hello who is this exactly?”

“Y/n, this is Jamie. There’s some interesting information I discovered recently. And I don’t think you want your children to learn what their grandpa really does on that ranch.” He responded through the phone making me glance over my shoulder seeing that Kayce was still fast asleep.

Pressing the phone back to my ear I whispered. “What do you want from me, Jamie. And under no circumstances will you come after my children.”

“I want John to pay. What I want from you is help me become Governor or I will pull up your records with the sheriff and bring all that past drama back into your life.” The former Dutton threatened where I hung up the phone running my fingers through my hair heading back to bed. Jamie had no right to do any kind of threat against me.

[countrymusiclover]

39 - The Slow Side...You're Wrong

Part 40

Country Rancher

Tags @whateverthecostner @rosie-posie08 @kayceduttonn @kcloveswrestling @the-morning-star-falls @kaymudd @hcwthewestwaswcn

Kayce, Lee and I all climbed down our horses from our day ride. Holding Kayce’s head down while I climbed down my horse. My boots hit the dirt as the sun was setting on the horizon. “So what did you think of the land, Y/n?”

“It’s beautiful. I’ve never seen anything like it.” I responded to Lee’s question where he took the reins of my horse and led them towards the barn.

Kayce led his own following us as we walked until he walked beside me where I had to look up since he was taller than I am. “That’s good that you enjoyed it. So uh….would you be okay with going to get some dinner with me tonight or some other time?”

“Wait a minute. Are you asking me out on a date, Kayc?” Whipping my head around when I spun on my feet I blush not expecting to have him ask me that when we had just met a few hours ago. I mean he was an attractive guy but again we had just met this morning.

He gently put his horse in the stall shutting the door behind the horses tail where Lee had already left us alone. He hung up the white cowboy hat he was wearing on a hook showing his curly brown hair for my view. “Uh yeah. I get it if you don’t want to…”

“I’d like to do that. I’d like to go on a date with you sometime, Kayce.” Taking his hat off of my head, handing it back to him where he set it on his head smiling at me.

He gestured towards the door where I followed him to the front porch never dreaming that I would call this place home thirteen years later. “Good. I’ll pick you up from your parents at six.”

Dallas and Elsa were playing on the front porch when Tate and I were coming back from the fields since he had asked if he could help us out. It would be a few more weeks before John, Rip and the remaining bunkhouse workers return to the ranch after being away. “When is Bree gonna stop walking around the house with a bouncy belly?”

“Tate, be nice to your sister now.” I warned him with a raised brow kicking my horse in the belly to race back to the barn with him in tow behind me.

Once we reached the barn he dismounted his horses sitting his tan hat on the saddle making a face at me. “Have you seen her belly? It looks like she might explode or something.”

“Hey, what did I just say.” Spinning on my feet I waved my fingers at him where he raised his hands up in the air following me towards the main house. “And even though she feels like crap right now. You need to remember that you will be an uncle soon. That is just as important as being an older brother.”

Walking up the front porch steps I held the door opened letting Tate inside first. The second we stepped inside I caught a whiff of the smell of baked goods almost. Finding my way into the kitchen I halted in my tracks seeing that there was a mess of flour and other ingredients on the kitchen floor. “Mommy, we’re making biscuits!” Elsa threw her hands up, flinging her messy hands around my knock where I almost dropped her on the floor.

“Oh Elsa!” I grunt shifting my hands underneath her butt so her head was laying on my shoulder. “Who’s idea exactly was this?”

Bree sat down the oven mits after closing the oven where the biscuits are cooking. Her stomach was round and a lot bigger where Tate was right that she did look like a balloon. “The baby has been craving biscuits so I was trying to recreate the recipe that was marked as grandma Evelyn’s. But Elsa decided to throw half the ingredients around like a monkey.”

“Woah what are ya’ll doing down here?” Someone came down the stairs where I turned my head seeing it was Dallas and Kayce who was carrying his guitar in his hands.

“Trying to make your mothers famous biscuits it seems. But I doubt she was as messy as this one is.” I tickled Elsa by her feet where she squealed until I sat her back down on the wooden floor.

Dallas ran up to his sister and picked up some flour from the floor throwing it on her. “Flour fights!” She begins throwing some back at him and it goes on for a few minutes.

“Why do you have the guitar. I thought you only sang songs around our anniversary. I mean not that I’m complaining, I’m just curious.” Crossing my arms over my chest I smiled at my cowboy husband seeing him take a seat on the main couch in front of the fireplace.

He sat the instrument on his lap eyeing our eldest daughter. “Hey B, bring a towel down so your messy siblings can sit. Tate, go help her then come here. I heard a song on the radio that I think is talking about me and your mother a little bit. So I thought I’d try it out myself.”

“Alright Kayc, let’s hear this song from the radio.” I clasped my hands together plopping down beside him. Tate and Bree managed to wrangle their twin siblings, all four sitting down in front of us.

Kayce began strumming his fingers on the guitar strings avoiding our gaze for a moment as he played. “Well, you know how it goes. When you meet somebody. That you like somebody. Wanna hold somebody. But you just can't stand. To think about somebody. As another somebody. Becoming someone else. When it all goes to hell. Why can't we keep it on the sweet side. See how it feels to take a slow ride. This time.”

“So you try to run away from the one somebody. That you like somebody. Wanna hold somebody. But you can't stay away from the one somebody. 'Cause there ain't nobody else running through your dreams. So we complicate things.” He began shifting his gaze upward seeing that the kids were now clapping to the beat.

I grinned at him where we met the others gaze where I started tapping my boots on the wooden floor. “Why can't we keep it on the sweet side. See how it feels to take a slow ride. This time. You don't need to meet my mama. You don't need the key to my house. We don't need to dream and plan and scheme. Ain't nothing here to figure out.”

“Wouldn't it be nice just to find somebody. That you like somebody. Wanna hold somebody. And you didn't have to worry about losing somebody. 'Cause you pushed somebody, a little too hard, too fast. I could use some of that.” Kayce and I slowly sang in unison where we both started laughing together finishing the song. “I wanna get back on the sweet side. I wanna get back on the slow ride. Want every kiss to give me butterflies. See that oh, baby come here look in your eyes. This time.This time.”

Bree got to her feet grinning brightly at her father resting her hands on her stomach. “That was great dad…oh!” She bent her knees a little, moaning in pain.

“Bree!” Jumping to my feet I rushed towards her placing a hand on her shoulder trying to figure out what was wrong with her.

Kayce jumped up to his feet shortly after hearing the front door opened and Carter hung his hat on the wall seeing that we were all concerned about something. “What is going on here?”

“Mom, dad, what’s happening?” Dallas and Elsa huddled to their feet alongside Tate when he stared at his sister.

Bree bent down lower to the wooden floor once Carter had rushed over to her side and I gasped seeing water coming from between her legs since she was wearing just a dress and some socks after her shorts were tighter. “Oh my god. I think the babies coming.”

“Oh shit!” Carter cursed under her breath getting a glare from me. “Um sorry.”

Kayce and I frantically turned our head towards one another sharing the same terrified look that we weren’t expecting this yet. Her due date wasn’t supposed to be until the rest of the family got back in town. “Call the helicopter!”

Comments really appreciated ❤️