Farmer next door. · Y/n story by @ravenirene

The morning sun was just starting to bleed orange over the eastern ridge, painting the long shadows of the Black family ranch in sharp relief. Inside the weathered farmhouse, the smell of strong coffee and frying bacon fought a losing battle against the perpetual scent of leather, hay, and dust.

Thomas Black

Y/n! You’re gonna be late if you don’t get down here for school!

Thomas’s voice boomed up the old wooden staircase, followed by the low, familiar snickering of her brothers.

James Black

muttering Probably primpin’ for that new algebra teacher.

Theo Black

Nah, she’s still asleep. Dreamin’ about not havin’ to muck out stalls.

Thomas Black

You two hush and finish your eggs. Truck’s leavin’ in ten.

A floorboard creaked overhead, then the sound of hurried footsteps. The back screen door slammed shut as one of the ranch hands, Miguel, came in, wiping his boots on the mat.

Miguel

Boss, that fella from the Stone place is at the north fence line again. His bull’s been eyein’ our heifers somethin’ fierce. Thought you’d wanna know before you head into town.

Thomas Black

Luke? I’ll swing by on my way. Man’s just bein’ thorough. A good neighbor.

James Black

scowling A good neighbor wouldn’t have bought the old Henderson land and put up a six-foot fence before sayin’ howdy.

Theo Black

And he looks like he chews nails for breakfast.

Thomas Black

That’s enough. He paid fair, he works hard, and he minds his own business. That’s country. Now where’s my daughter?

Another, louder creak from the stairs.