Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Summary:
Rip gets more than he bargained for when his fiancée brings home two teenagers.
Chapter Text
"Who the fuck are they, Beth?" Rip asks, slamming the front door and staring down at his fiancée.
"I think they're ours, baby," Beth responds simply, taking a drink of her beer then setting it on the porch step beside her.
"Fuck no, they ain't," Rip says, giving Beth a hard look.
"They don't have anywhere to go, Rip. They're like you."
"They have everywhere to go. Everywhere but here. What the hell were you thinking? Teenagers aren't toys, they're problems. Don't you think we have enough of those?"
"Fine, but you'll have to be the one to tell 'em," Beth says, taking another swig.
Rip turns around and opens the door, stepping back into the house where two teens sit eating tuna-burger-helper. The siblings have matching black hair and blue eyes and are wearing clothes that haven't been washed in a week.
"Who are you?" Rip asks angrily.
"Uh, I'm Carter, and this is my sister Lila-"
"Nevermind, I don't care. Get out. Both of 'yuns," Rip says as he stands by the doorway. When they stare at him blankly, he takes a threatening tone. "Y'all too stupid to understand? I said get the fuck out NOW!"
That message gets through to them loud and clear. They scramble out of the dining room chairs and toward the door.
Carter rushes past with his head tucked, but Lila looks defiantly at Rip as she passes, light blue eyes blazing with anger behind her messy waves of hair.
"Don't forget your shit!" Rip says, grabbing their backpacks and throwing them carelessly in their direction.
"Sorry, we tried our best," Beth says to the teens as they exit the house in a hurry.
"Where do we even go?" The boy asks, pulling his backpack over his shoulder as they approach the road.
"You have four choices," Rip says, "north, east, south, and west. Pick one and start walking."
"Come on, it's only ever been us and we were stupid for thinking things could be any different." The older sister spits on the ground, grabs her brother by the backpack handle, and pulls him with her away from the house.
Rip gives Beth a look and she follows him into the house, bringing their beers with her.
"Now what the hell was that, Beth? I don't remember you being one to bring home strays," Rip says, closing the door behind them.
"Those kids out there? They're you twenty years ago. Young, alone, nothing but the clothes on their backs and no place to go," Beth says, handing Rip his beer. He drinks it all in one swig and sets the glass on the table.
"They aren't me, Beth. I had no one. They have each other. They'll be fine."
"They'll be in trouble in a week. The boy's reckless and the girl has an attitude."
"That isn't our problem, Beth. I've got enough to deal with. Don't need them two making things worse."
Beth shrugs. "Whatever you say, baby. I'm going to bed."
Rip runs a hand through his black curls. "Alright honey, I'll be there in a minute."
"Love you," Beth says, ascending the stairs, her long red hair lit up by the foyer light beside her.
"Love you too, baby," Rip says, his tone gentle for the first time all day. He watches his gorgeous fiancée ascend the stairs until the last sliver of her sundress disappears behind her.
He lets out a sigh and grabs Beth's unfinished beer, leaning against the table and drinking the rest while looking out the window.
"What the-" Rip says as he glimpses movement.
"These little shits," he growls, throwing the front door open.
"Hey! What the hell do you think you're doing?" Rip yells, making his way across the porch and down the steps in three long strides.
"Fuck!" They say in tandem from where they stand near Beth's car. The girl runs, but her brother freezes in place. She grabs his arm and tries to drag him away.
"Couldn't wait for me to go to sleep? You're both fucking idiot thieves, you know that?" Rip says, easily making it to the kids and grabbing the boy by his collar.
"Take your hands off him!" The girl screams, tearing at Rip's jacket. He pushes his forearm into her and she falls into the dust, sputtering.
"Don't you even think about it, girl," Rip says to Lila, then turns to her brother. "Can't let you fucks stay and can't make you leave either. Get back inside," Rip says, throwing Carter toward the porch.
Noticing his back turned, Lila pulls a switchblade from her jean pocket. Rip hears the subtle click of the knife flipping into place and turns to the girl on the ground at the same moment she lunges for his legs.
With one swift movement, he steps to the side and her swing hits air, sending her into the dirt face-first. This time, she screams in pain.
"What did your idiot sister do to herself now?" Rip gripes, kicking her switchblade away. He uses the toe of his boot to flip her over.
Blood flows from a wound on her left shoulder. It doesn't look deep, but it needs stitches. She groans and slaps her hand over the wound, wincing.
"I knew you two were nothing but trouble. Now you've gone and given me even more work, dammit."
He offers a hand to her, but she looks up with hateful eyes and stays on the ground. "No thanks, I'd rather die."
"Well, I'd still have to carry your corpse to the nearest hole, so you can have me move you now or later."
Stubbornly, she stays seated, blood seeping between her fingers.
"Fine."
Rip leans over and picks her up, tossing her over his shoulder like she weighs nothing. She kicks her feet and pounds at his back with one bloody fist, but Rip barely registers it.
"What are you looking at, boy? Didn't I tell you to get inside?" Rip growls at the kid who had been watching from the porch. The boy rushes inside, making space for Rip to bring his thrashing sister through the doorway.
Chapter 2: Chapter 2
Summary:
Lila and Carter make their first impressions.
Chapter Text
"Lila, chill. He's trying to help you," Carter says while Rip attempts to set his rage-filled sister on the couch.
"Dunno why you thought that lady would help us, Carter. Ain't nothing here for us but more pain," the girl says breathlessly as she finally stops fighting.
"Your sister is smarter than you, boy. No idea what my girl was thinking bringing mangy thieves into our house," Rip says. "Now sit there and don't fucking move while I get the needle and thread."
"What the hell happened?" Beth asks, peering down the steps. She's wearing only a sheer nightgown.
"Caught these two trying to steal your car," Rip says, carrying a sewing kit into the room.
"And she ended up bleeding how?"
"Hurt herself trying to stab me."
Beth looks at the girl. "Classic mistake," she says with a grin, "my man's unkillable." Beth descends the stairs and approaches Lila, leaning in close.
"But you sure as hell aren't. If you attack Rip again, I'll kill you myself, bury you in the backyard, then build an outhouse over your rotting corpse and piss on you every fucking morning. Understand?"
The girl looks startled and can only nod.
"Love when you talk like that baby," Rip says, grinning as she stands and straightens her nightgown.
"Oh yeah? I got more for you when you come upstairs," Beth says coyly, then heads back for the bedroom. "Night, kids."
"Uh, night?" Carter says, but she's already gone.
"You better sit still, girl," Rip says, turning his attention to Lila and unpacking the sewing kit.
Lila is silent the whole time, only flinching when the needle tugs. Rip ties the thread then stands, gesturing for the pair to rise.
"Y'all ain't leaving tonight. But you ain't sleeping here either. Come with me."
He leads the silent teens to the shed at the side of the house.
"There's a bed there, water, and a blanket. More 'n you deserve. Goodnight," Rip says, closing the door.
"What about a bathroom?" The boy asks. Rip grabs a bucket from a nearby pile of junk and tosses it to the ground.
"There's your bathroom," he says, then closes the door with a slam, locking it behind him.
Rip heads back to the house, strips off his clothes and climbs into bed.
"Where are the kids?" Beth asks sleepily as she throws her arm over his chest.
"In the shed."
"Surprised you didn't leave 'em out in the pasture."
"They'd steal something if I did."
"You know them so well already, baby," Beth purrs, pulling herself on top of him.
"Sweetheart, I gotta be up early tomorrow..."
"You always gotta be up early tomorrow," Beth pouts. "That never stopped you from fucking me before."
Rip smiles. "Mmmh, well, you make it hard to say no."
Beth leans toward his ear, placing a hand on his chest and positioning herself over him. "You mean impossible?"
The motion activated lights turn on outside the window, and Rip groans.
"Are you fucking serious? Regret showing them where we live yet?" Rip asks, hurriedly pulling on a pair of pants.
"Go show 'em you mean business, baby," Beth encourages him.
Rip grumbles as he exits the bedroom and heads down the stairs. When he makes it outside, nothing seems to be amiss.
Coulda been an animal, Rip thinks, but that would be too simple. Not with these little shits around.
Without hesitation, Rip slams the door to the shed open. The kids jolt up in their cots like they'd been sleeping, but that only solidifies Rip's suspicion.
"You really think I'm gonna believe you both fell asleep in ten minutes? Bullshit. My question is, how the fuck did you get out?"
The teens are silent.
"Tell me or I'm welding the door shut. And you best believe I will."
When they still don't respond, Rip shrugs and grabs his welding mask from a hook near the door.
"Wait, wait!" The girl shouts. "I did it! I wanted my knife!"
"That's why, not how," Rip says, and starts to pull the door shut.
"I picked the lock!"
Rip stops. "With what?"
Lila pulls a bobby pin from her hair. "This."
"How the fuck did you pick a lock with that?"
"Back when we were kids, dad used to lock us in our room to do heroin thinking if we didn't see it, it wasn't happening. He'd forget and leave us in there. Couldn't stand to see my brother starving, so I learned how to break us out."
Rip sighs. "Alright, makes sense. I'll block your door then."
"Please, I promise we won't steal anything!"
"Your word means shit to me, girl. Besides, no reason you need to be leaving now. Give me the knife. I'll keep it safe."
"Your word means shit to me, old man," the girl echo's Rips tone mockingly. "Think I'll keep it."
Rip laughs. "You lost the opportunity to decide for yourself when you tried to fucking stab me. Now hand it over. Lucky for you, I am a man of my word. I'll give it back when I can trust you."
"What if you kick us out before then?" The boy asks.
"I'll keep it on me so I can give it to you if I do, alright?"
The girl looks at the knife before reluctantly holding it toward Rip.
"Nah, I ain't approaching you while you hold it. Slide it to me."
Lila rolls her eyes, then slides the knife along the floor to Rip, who takes it and stows it in his pocket.
"Now go to sleep cause you're both getting up early with me tomorrow, and there ain't no breaks at the Yellowstone."
Chapter 3: Chapter 3
Summary:
The teens are put to work
Chapter Text
Rip slams the shed door open, flips on the light, and throws a bag of clothes on the floor.
"Get changed. You're working today."
Lila rolls over in the cot and groans. "Has the sun even come up?"
"Better get used to early mornings, princess. No one sleeps in on the ranch."
Lila throws the threadbare sheet off and rolls out of bed.
"All these clothes are too big," complains her brother as he scavenges through the pile.
"Shut up, Carter. You're fat enough to wear 'em," Lila quips as she grabs the first t-shirt she can find, opting to continue wearing the same jeans since nothing Rip brought looks like it'd stay on her skinny frame.
Rip laughs and shakes his head. "Meet me out front when you're changed."
After they're dressed, Lila opens the door. Rip is leaning against the wall wearing his old leather jacket, rugged jeans, and a black cowboy hat.
"Hurry, kids, we gotta be there ten minutes ago," Rip says.
"You can stop calling me kid. I haven't been a kid since I can remember," Lila says angrily.
"Well, the moment you act like a respectable woman, I'll start calling you that. 'Till then, you're still a little brat. Now let's get going."
Rip takes the pair to the barn. They wander around while Rip looks for John Dutton, finding him leaning on one of the corral gates watching his cowboys saddle up.
"Sir?" Rip says, getting the boss's attention.
"Rip," John gives an acknowledging nod, "who do you have with you?"
"Couplea kids your daughter brought home last night."
John sighs. "She did, did she? What does she want with them?"
"Hell if I know, sir," Rip says, shaking his head.
"Well, what are we supposed to do with 'em?" John asks, watching the teens explore.
"Figured we'd put 'em to work, sir."
"Where's their parents?" John asks. Rip shakes his head.
"They're like me."
"Ah." John rubs his chin. "Well, make 'em useful then, Rip."
"Yes sir. Come on you two," Rip shouts for the kids, continuing as they run over to him, "y'all ever mucked a stall before?"
"No," they say.
"That'll be 'no sir'."
"No sir," the kids respond, though Lila puts heavy sarcastic emphasis on 'sir'.
Rip grabs her uninjured shoulder. "Listen here, kid. You're only here because my girl wants you to be. The second she tires of you, I'm dumping you two at the nearest bus stop. Until then, you'll do exactly what I say with no fucking bullshit."
She flinches when he lets go. "Out of one abusive household and into another," she grumbles.
"The fuck did you say?" Rip says, giving Lila a hard look. "There's a world of difference between abuse and discipline–one is cruelty for the sake of it and the other is what you ultimately need to grow into a decent human."
Rip continues, "I'm your boss, and you'll treat me like you're one fuck up away from me firing your ass, got it?"
"Yes sir," Lila says.
John raises his eyebrows. "You got a lot on your hands with those two, Rip. You sure you're gonna be able to work?"
"I promise I'll keep up with my work, sir."
"Alright then." John nods, turning back to watching his cowboys.
Rip takes the pair to the stalls. "Shovels are there," he points to a corner of the barn, "and the wheelbarrow is by the back. You'll find the pile of shit to dump it in by the smell, I'm sure. See ya." Rip turns away from them and starts to leave.
"Wait, what? You're leaving? What if one of the horses hurts us?" Carter says, looking nervous.
Rip cackles. "The horses won't hurt you unless you deserve it. Go into the stall, clean the shit, and close the door behind you. Now I gotta go."
Rip leaves the teens without a second word. Lila heads to grab a shovel.
"I've never seen you get shut up that easy," Carter teases.
"It ain't worth the fight," Lila fires back.
"Since when is my sister afraid of a fight?"
Lila huffs angrily, turning away from Carter and entering the first horse stall.
The teens make it through the day without incident. Everyone ignores them mostly. In the evening, Rip returns to the barn to collect them.
"Beth wants you two home for dinner. Come on."
When they arrive at the house, Beth has hamburger helper ready on the table. Glad to eat anything, Lila and Carter devour it.
"Food is great, honey," Rip says, smiling at his fiancée.
"Thank you," Beth says, watching the kids clean their plates. "Here, have more," she says, spooning more out for them.
"You like this, don't you?" Rip says, continuing to smile.
Beth thinks for a second before contentment spreads across her features. "Yeah baby. Yeah, I really do."
Chapter 4: Chapter 4
Summary:
Lila learns to ride
Chapter Text
That night, the kids sleep in the house and the next morning starts much the same as before.
Around noon, Beth comes out to the barn.
"They're done for the day. I want to take them shopping," she says to Rip, pointing at the kids as they dump the contents of a wheelbarrow into the manure pile.
"Baby, these kids don't need more than the shirts on their backs and a hot meal once in a while. You can't spoil kids like them or they'll turn into pets. And not good pets, mind you," Rip says.
"I'm not going to spoil them, Rip. I just want to get them jackets and a pair of boots," Beth counters.
"That's spoiling them, honey."
"Baby, I love you," Beth kisses him on the cheek, "but fuck you for telling me what to do."
Rip sighs. "At least take one at a time. Two versus one won't turn out well for anyone."
"Fine, I'll take the boy first."
"Alright," Rip reluctantly agrees.
"You should give the girl a day off, too. Wouldn't be right for one to be working and the other not."
Rip groans. "Now what the hell am I supposed to do with a teenage girl all day? I barely know them."
"Then get to know her, Rip. See if she's ridden a horse before. I gotta go. Love you." Beth kisses Rip, then heads to the stalls to grab Carter.
Rip removes his hat, runs his hand through his hair and sighs before putting his hat back on and going to retrieve the girl who tried to stab him less than a week ago.
"Hey girl, Beth wants me to see if you know how to ride a horse. Do you?"
Lila sets her shovel against the wall of the barn. "Uh, no..."
Great, Rip thinks. I sure love teaching snarky teenagers when I should be out working. Dammit, Beth.
"Fine, then you'll learn how to ride today. Let's get a horse saddled up."
Lila dusts her hands off on her pants and follows Rip to a nearby stall.
"You like horses?" He asks as she reaches out to pet the nose of the chestnut brown horse.
Lila considers a snide remark, but thinks better of it. No sense in pushing a man already at his limit when their new home is at stake. "Yeah, they're cool."
Rip smiles. "Yeah, they are pretty cool. This one here is Miss Maddie. She's gentle. I think you two will get along."
"I like her," Lila says, giving the horse a quick pat. "Why are you teaching me to ride? Will I be a cowboy?"
He shrugs. "Do you want to be a cowboy? It ain't all fun and games. Lots of long days, come home sore every night, and get up early every morning."
"That sounds like what I'm doing right now except minus shoveling shit," Lila says, her voice deadpan.
"Well then," Rip says, laughing as he gets the saddle on Miss Maddie, "you'd probably like it more. I know I couldn't wait for John to let me ride."
"Is John your boss?" Lila asks, watching Rip intently.
"You'd best call him Mr. Dutton. He owns the Yellowstone ranch. He's all of our boss," Rip says as he finishes saddling the horse. "You need help getting on?"
Lila looks sheepish before nodding.
"Give me your hand."
Lila's hand disappears into his. Her already shy look turns to full-on blushing, and she dips her head to hide her cheeks.
"You scared?" Rip asks, trying to see her expression.
"No," Lila peeps.
"You sure look it."
Lila's hand is still in his, making her blush harder. No one had held her hand this long before.
"If you still want to ride, you need to do what I tell you, alright?"
Lila nods, trying to find her voice. Why the hell is this man making her so shy?
"Put your left foot in the stirrup. That's this part." Rip points to the metal stirrup hanging off the saddle.
When she does, he continues, "Now use my hand for leverage and pull your other leg over the saddle."
Within two attempts, Lila swings her leg to the other side. Rip lets go of her hand and she finds herself missing his touch.
When was the last time a man had touched her in any way that wasn't violent, lewd, or rude? Now Lila felt sorry for trying to stab him. It's second nature to treat everyone as a threat, especially when they manhandle her brother.
Well, not that he didn't deserve it...
"You paying attention, girl?" Rip says.
"My name isn't girl. It's Lila," she says, shaking out of her reverie.
"Lila," Rip says, making her stomach do a flip, "let's get going."
"Where?" She asks, grabbing the reins and wondering what to do with them.
As if reading her thoughts, Rip trots his horse over to hers. "You steer a horse first with your mind, then with the reins. A horse follows the cowboy's intentions, then his motions. Pull to the left for left, right for right, back to slow 'em down, and whip the reins to speed 'em up."
"Seems simple enough," Lila says, wanting Rip to believe that she's more confident than she feels.
"Then let's get going Lila," Rip says, leading the way.
Chapter 5: Chapter 5
Summary:
Lila and Rip spend time together
Chapter Text
Lila does well for never having ridden before, but she struggles to find the bravery to tell the horse to go faster.
"We'll never get there before the sun sets if you don't get a move on," Rip says as her horse trots up to where he'd been waiting.
"Where are we going?" Lila asks.
"Nowhere if you don't speed up. Whip the reins. Do it."
"But-"
"You think a cowboy would be caught dead riding a horse at the speed you've been dragging along?"
"I'm not a cowboy yet!"
"And you never will be if you don't pick up the pace," Rip says matter-of-factly. "Race me to the tree line."
Lila looks far off in the distance. "All the way over there?"
"Mmhm."
"What's the stakes?" Lila asks, shifting in her saddle.
"Girl, you really wanna lose a bet in your first week at the Yellowstone? Won't bode well for the rest of your time here."
"It's Lila," she says with an annoyed look. "And no, you're just worried about losing to a girl."
"I've lost to my fiancée many times."
"She's... Anyone would lose to her," Lila says, remembering Beth's threat.
"Ain't that the truth," Rip laughs.
"Well, come on, what's the bet?" Lila asks again.
Rip looks off into the distance, patting his horse's neck.
"Loser has to saddle and unsaddle the other person's horse for a week," Rip says.
"I don't know how to saddle a horse!"
Rip gives her a wry grin. "Then you best not lose, little lady. Ready?" Rip lines his horse's shoulder up with hers.
Lila nods, then whips the reins. Her horse bolts ahead of Rip, who shouts, "Woah, hey!" Before whipping his reins too, rapidly catching up to her head start.
Adrenaline rushes through Lila's body, her tingling fingers gripping the reins as she holds onto the horse as tightly as she can. When Rip catches up, she whips the reins again, sending another rush of adrenaline shooting straight to her head.
The only thing on her mind is winning, yet–even with her head start–Rip is right on her tail.
It takes everything she has to stay on Miss Maddie as they rapidly approach the treeline. But even with all her efforts, Rip still surpasses her a few seconds before they reach the trees.
Rip pulls on the reins, bringing his horse to a stop. Lila isn't sure when or how to stop the horse on time, so she pulls back with all her might, making the horse skid to a halt.
"Damn girl, you didn't tell me you knew how to do that!" Rip says.
"Do what, not die?" Lila asks, out of breath and dizzy.
"I never saw Miss Maddie slide to a stop like that. Didn't even know she could."
"Is that good?" Lila asks.
"If you can get a horse to stop like that consistently and stay on the saddle, you can make all sorts of money," Rip says.
"It was an accident. I don't know that I could do it again."
"Ah well, plenty of time to learn. C'mon Lila," Rip says, hopping off his horse. "We're almost there."
"Uh," Lila says, looking uncertain.
Rip makes his way to the side of her horse. "Need help getting off?"
"Yeah, please?" Lila says.
"Put your arm around my shoulders."
Lila looks down at Rip as he opens his arm toward her. The adrenaline wearing off–not to mention the way he's patiently waiting for her to wrap her arm around him–has her feeling dizzy.
She places one arm around his broad shoulders.
"Now hold on tight," Rip says.
In one motion, he lifts her off the horse. For a moment Lila finds herself pressed against his firm chest. He smells like the forest and old leather.
Rip sets her on the ground and she wobbles for a second, soreness already settling in her legs.
"You good?" Rip asks, waiting for her to steady.
"Yeah, I'm alright," Lila says, setting one hand on her horse. "Where are we going now?"
"Not much further," Rip says. "Grab the reins. Let's leave the horses here. The brush is too dense for them." He hangs the reins on a nearby branch and Lila follows suit.
"Now come on this way." Rip leads her through the brush. The sound of rushing water reaches Lila's ears.
"We going swimming?" Lila asks, ducking under a low-hanging branch.
"Too shallow for swimming."
"Oh."
Why did we have to go so far? Lila thinks, but she doesn't have time to consider the question as the pair enter a small meadow alive with color.
Swaths of wildflowers bloom along the bank of the stream in yellow, red, and most prevalently, purple.
"Found this place once when chasing a wolf off. Biggest patch of flowers I've ever seen."
"Its gorgeous," Lila says, bending to sniff the nearest flower. "Why did you bring me here, though?"
"Lila comes from lilac, right? When my girl suggested taking you on a ride, I thought you might like this place. Ain't never showed it to anyone before."
Lila blushes, picking a purple flower and setting it behind her ear. "Well, thank you. I never saw a place so beautiful," she pauses, "honestly, the entire ranch is otherworldly."
Rip shakes his head. "Everything outside the ranch is otherworldly. Everything right here? This is what the world's supposed to be."
"I suppose you're right." Lila smiles slightly and kicks a rock into the stream.
After some silence, Lila speaks up. "Hey, uh, sorry for trying to stab you."
"You ain't the first and you won't be the last," Rip says from where he sits on a large, smoothed rock by the stream.
"How many times have people tried to stab you?" Lila asks, concerned.
"Enough. More n' I can remember."
Lila's eyes widen. "What?"
Rip nods. "And that's just the people trying to stab me. People have tried a lot worse."
"What the hell are you doing to get attacked so often?"
"Defending paradise ain't easy. I'd die for Mr. Dutton after all he's done for me. It's the least I can do."
Lila sits beside him on the rock. "Good thing you're unkillable. That's a great insurance policy for this place."
"You know," Rip laughs, "you may last here longer than I'd thought."
Chapter 6: Chapter 6
Summary:
Lila and Rip reach the secret spot
Chapter Text
Lila does well for never having ridden before, but she struggles to find the bravery to tell the horse to go faster.
"We'll never get there before the sun sets if you don't get a move on," Rip says as her horse trots up to where he'd been waiting.
"Where are we going?" Lila asks.
"Nowhere if you don't speed up. Whip the reins. Do it."
"But-"
"You think a cowboy would be caught dead riding a horse at the speed you've been dragging along?"
"I'm not a cowboy yet!"
"And you never will be if you don't pick up the pace," Rip says matter-of-factly. "Race me to the tree line."
Lila looks far off in the distance. "All the way over there?"
"Mmhm."
"What's the stakes?" Lila asks, shifting in her saddle.
"Girl, you really wanna lose a bet in your first week at the Yellowstone? Won't bode well for the rest of your time here."
"It's Lila," she says with an annoyed look. "And no, you're just worried about losing to a girl."
"I've lost to my fiancée many times."
"She's... Anyone would lose to her," Lila says, remembering Beth's threat.
"Ain't that the truth," Rip laughs.
"Well, come on, what's the bet?" Lila asks again.
Rip looks off into the distance, patting his horse's neck.
"Loser has to saddle and unsaddle the other person's horse for a week," Rip says.
"I don't know how to saddle a horse!"
Rip gives her a wry grin. "Then you best not lose, little lady. Ready?" Rip lines his horse's shoulder up with hers.
Lila nods, then whips the reins. Her horse bolts ahead of Rip, who shouts, "Woah, hey!" Before whipping his reins too, rapidly catching up to her head start.
Adrenaline rushes through Lila's body, her tingling fingers gripping the reins as she holds onto the horse as tightly as she can. When Rip catches up, she whips the reins again, sending another rush of adrenaline shooting straight to her head.
The only thing on her mind is winning, yet–even with her head start–Rip is right on her tail.
It takes everything she has to stay on Miss Maddie as they rapidly approach the treeline. But even with all her efforts, Rip still surpasses her a few seconds before they reach the trees.
Rip pulls on the reins, bringing his horse to a stop. Lila isn't sure when or how to stop the horse on time, so she pulls back with all her might, making the horse skid to a halt.
"Damn girl, you didn't tell me you knew how to do that!" Rip says.
"Do what, not die?" Lila asks, out of breath and dizzy.
"I never saw Miss Maddie slide to a stop like that. Didn't even know she could."
"Is that good?" Lila asks.
"If you can get a horse to stop like that consistently and stay on the saddle, you can make all sorts of money," Rip says.
"It was an accident. I don't know that I could do it again."
"Ah well, plenty of time to learn. C'mon Lila," Rip says, hopping off his horse. "We're almost there."
"Uh," Lila says, looking uncertain.
Rip makes his way to the side of her horse. "Need help getting off?"
"Yeah, please?" Lila says.
"Put your arm around my shoulders."
Lila looks down at Rip as he opens his arm toward her. The adrenaline wearing off–not to mention the way he's patiently waiting for her to wrap her arm around him–has her feeling dizzy.
She places one arm around his broad shoulders.
"Now hold on tight," Rip says.
In one motion, he lifts her off the horse. For a moment Lila finds herself pressed against his firm chest. He smells like the forest and old leather.
Rip sets her on the ground and she wobbles for a second, soreness already settling in her legs.
"You good?" Rip asks, waiting for her to steady.
"Yeah, I'm alright," Lila says, setting one hand on her horse. "Where are we going now?"
"Not much further," Rip says. "Grab the reins. Let's leave the horses here. The brush is too dense for them." He hangs the reins on a nearby branch and Lila follows suit.
"Now come on this way." Rip leads her through the brush. The sound of rushing water reaches Lila's ears.
"We going swimming?" Lila asks, ducking under a low-hanging branch.
"Too shallow for swimming."
"Oh."
Why did we have to go so far? Lila thinks, but she doesn't have time to consider the question as the pair enter a small meadow alive with color.
Swaths of wildflowers bloom along the bank of the stream in yellow, red, and most prevalently, purple.
"Found this place once when chasing a wolf off. Biggest patch of flowers I've ever seen."
"Its gorgeous," Lila says, bending to sniff the nearest flower. "Why did you bring me here, though?"
"Lila comes from lilac, right? When my girl suggested taking you on a ride, I thought you might like this place. Ain't never showed it to anyone before."
Lila blushes, picking a purple flower and setting it behind her ear. "Well, thank you. I never saw a place so beautiful," she pauses, "honestly, the entire ranch is otherworldly."
Rip shakes his head. "Everything outside the ranch is otherworldly. Everything right here? This is what the world's supposed to be."
"I suppose you're right." Lila smiles slightly and kicks a rock into the stream.
After some silence, Lila speaks up. "Hey, uh, sorry for trying to stab you."
"You ain't the first and you won't be the last," Rip says from where he sits on a large, smoothed rock by the stream.
"How many times have people tried to stab you?" Lila asks, concerned.
"Enough. More n' I can remember."
Lila's eyes widen. "What?"
Rip nods. "And that's just the people trying to stab me. People have tried a lot worse."
"What the hell are you doing to get attacked so often?"
"Defending paradise ain't easy. I'd die for Mr. Dutton after all he's done for me. It's the least I can do."
Lila sits beside him on the rock. "Good thing you're unkillable. That's a great insurance policy for this place."
"You know," Rip laughs, "you may last here longer than I'd thought."
Chapter 7: Chapter 7
Summary:
Lila meets John Dutton
Chapter Text
When Lila and Carter meet at the barn, Carter won't make eye contact. Lila tries to talk to him but Carter won't budge, he just shovels crap silently. Eventually, Lila has had enough.
"What the fuck is your problem?" Lila asks, shoving Carter's shoulder.
Carter looks at her hatefully. "I thought the one person I could depend on was you. But you did whatever Rip told you to. How I feel didn't even cross your mind."
"It did, Carter! I asked to go to the shed with you, but Beth wouldn't let me!"
Carter scoffs. "She wouldn't let you? I don't believe that for a second."
Lila sets her shovel against the barn wall and crosses her arms. "Well, you should 'cause it's true."
Carter slams his shovel on the ground. "Maybe I should leave so you don't feel guilty about the fact that you're getting special treatment!"
Lila opens her arms. "I'm still here shoveling shit with you, so I dont know how special the treatment you think I'm getting is!"
"You did the same thing with dad, always trying to get his attention. Wanting him to feel sorry for you."
Now it's Lila's turn to look hateful. "You know what we went through. I did what I had to. Take that back."
"I will when you stop proving me right," Carter says. "Tell me you don't want attention and I'll apologize."
"I dont want attention, Carter."
Carter smirks. "Maybe not from just anyone. Maybe only from Rip. That why you're being so obedient? You want him to like you?"
"I want the people taking care of us to like us, yes," Lila says, her voice flat.
"When are you going to tell him you're fucked in the head? Or will you try to hide that, like you hide the scars?"
Lila picks her shovel off the wall and throws it at Carter. He dodges it, but not her when she tackles him to the barn floor.
"You're a piece of shit, Carter! Fuck you!" She screams, slapping his face with one hand and pulling his hair with the other.
"Get off me, you psycho!" Carter yells, grabbing a fistful of hay and throwing it at her face. Lila pulls his head up by his hair and slams his head onto the floor just as she is lifted off Carter by powerful arms wrapped around her midsection.
"How many times am I gonna have to pick you up kicking and screaming?" Rip asks, setting her on her feet where she stands huffing furiously.
"She started it!" Carter says, rubbing the back of his head.
"He provoked me!"
"Both of y'all shut it. Carter, did you provoke your sister?"
"If telling the truth counts as provoking, I guess I did."
"We're having that talk now. Come with me," Rip pushes Carter, who stumbles toward the barn exit.
They leave Lila alone, huffing. Her anger soon turns to furious tears. She enters the nearest empty horse stall, sliding to the floor and sobbing.
How could she forget her scars? She could never run naked through the field. What if someone noticed?
Thinking about Carter saying her scars were for attention brings another wave of enraged tears. If they were for attention, she'd be flaunting them. Carter knows this. He's only saying things because he's mad... Right? Because she abandoned him in the shed.
No, he crossed a line. He's saying this to hurt her, she thinks, which makes her angrier as she pulls the straw he'd tossed at her face out of her hair. Lila is too absorbed in her thoughts to look up from the corner she's huddled in when the stall opens.
"Good Lord, girl, you're gonna give me a heart attack," John Dutton says, halting in place with his horse in tow. John's steely blue eyes survey the girl huddled in the corner.
Lila pulls her head from her hands, and her eyes widen. "Oh shit, Mr. Dutton, I'm sorry. I didn't know this was your stall!" She scrambles to her feet, wiping her nose on her arm.
"Don't you worry about it. My stall may as well be the designated crying stall," he says without a hint of sarcasm.
"People come here to cry?" Lila asks, confused.
"Me, mostly," John answers, patting his horse's side.
Lila looks shocked. "You? Really?"
"Mmhm." John leads his horse into the stall and removes the bit from its mouth.
"You want to talk about it, or do you want me to fuck off?" He asks.
Lila considers what he's offering. Should she say anything to the owner of all of Yellowstone ranch? He did tell her he comes here to cry sometimes, and from his expression she can tell he's sincerely offering his company.
"I guess I'll talk some," she says apprehensively, "but you won't kick us out or judge me for what I say, will you?"
John smiles, sitting down with a grunt and patting the ground beside him. Lila sits back down hesitantly. "As long as you promise not to tell anyone I come here to cry, nothing we say here will leave the stall. Deal?" John holds out his hand.
"Deal." Lila shakes his hand firmly.
"Now tell me what's got you upset," John asks.
"My... I, uh. He..." Lila takes a deep breath. "My brother brought up some bad memories. Said I... Did the things I did for attention."
"Did you?" John asks, not mockingly but with genuine curiosity.
"Well, yes." Lila grits her teeth. "But there's a reason. If I didn't get dad's attention, he would have forgotten us."
"Ah," John says, rubbing his chin. "My kids have done similar."
"You don't look like a heroin addict to me."
John laughs. "No, my demons are different, but demons all the same. Something you gotta know about demons is they hate sharing attention and will make you pay for making them wait."
"Yeah... I know." Lila dips her head, making random squiggles in the dirt and straw with her fingers.
After some silence, John pats her shoulder. "If you need to talk, come find me. It's about dinner time." He stands, stretching and wiping straw off his blue jeans. "You wanna come with?"
"I should get back to the house, Rip said to be home before dark... Think I missed the deadline."
"I'll drive you up there," John offers.
"You have your own dinner to make it to, I don't want both of us to be late!" Lila protests.
"Well, alright–my offer stands. Come have dinner any time." John offers her his hand and pulls her from the ground. "And you're welcome to use my stall for solace if you need it."
Thank you, Mr. Dutton," Lila says, wiping dried tears from her cheeks.
"Think nothing of it, Lila. Have a good night," John says, tipping his hat as they approach the barn exit.
"You too," Lila responds as they part ways. "Good night."
Chapter 8: Chapter 8
Summary:
Rip, Lila, and Beth stay out late
Chapter Text
When Lila makes it back to the house, it's already past sundown.
Part of her worries about what Rip might've done to Carter, but she resolves to not ask. Whatever it was–he deserved it.
Having learned to knock, Lila does so.
Beth opens the door. "I thought we'd said something about being home before dark?" She leans against the doorframe, blocking the way.
"Let her in, baby. Her brother was an asshole today. Hard to keep a schedule when you're pissed."
"Well, not for me, but I realize I'm an exception due to the fact I'm always pissed." Beth steps to the side. "Thankfully, you weren't too late for our outing tonight! I've been looking forward to this all day."
"I'm not going," Lila states, sitting down to a cold and moist sloppy Joe.
"What? I thought you were excited?" Beth says, crossing her arms.
"I lied," she lies.
"Told you it was the drink talking," Rip says, settling down on the couch.
"Well, I'm still going. And Rip, you're coming with me. And even if you aren't going to participate, you're coming too, Lila."
"But–" Lila starts.
"Girl, don't you try me. You're coming to watch me have fun," Beth says as Lila finishes the last bite of her sandwich.
"You and Rip can sit there wishing you were out there with me. Now come on, let's go!" Beth says, flinging the front door open.
"Baby, it's barely dark, are you sure..." Rip turns around. "She's gone already isn't she?" He says, rising from the couch with a sigh. "I'll get the beers you go see what direction she ran off in, would you?"
Lila nods, hopping up from her chair and running to the front porch, the toe of her shoe catching on a pile of fabric that turns out to be Beth's sundress. Lila scans the field, glimpsing movement followed by wild cackling.
Rip comes up behind her on the porch with a six-pack of beer in one hand, a battery-powered lantern in the other, and some towels draped over his arm. "Which way?"
Lila points to where she saw the movement, and Rip nods. "Let's get going."
"Want me to carry something? Should I get her dress?" Lila offers.
"You could take the lantern and lead the way, but there's no point in getting her dress. Once it's off for the day, it stays off," Rip says, holding the lantern out. Lila takes it and hops down the steps, heading toward the field.
After walking for a few minutes, there is a rustling nearby, followed by Beth leaping out and jumping on Rip's back with a wild laugh. "Slowpokes! Give me one of those beers baby, it's a great night to be drunk and naked. You sure you don't want to join me?"
"I'm sure honey, you have fun, though."
Rip pops the cap of a beer and hands it to her while she rides on his back. Lila realizes she doesn't know where she's leading them but no one says anything, so she guesses she's headed the right way.
"You sure you don't want to run with me?" Beth asks Lila, sliding off Rip's back. Lila dips her head respectfully to avoid seeing her front-on.
"I'm about to take off again. Rip will hold your clothes if you're worried about losing them."
Lila blushes at the thought of Rip holding her clothes, but shakes her head. "No, I'm alright. You take the lead."
"We're almost there. If you get lost, look for the lantern reflecting off my pale ass!" Beth says, taking off.
"You want a beer?" Rip offers. Lila shakes her head. Though she knows her decisions last night were far from 'under the influence', she doesn't want Rip to think she won't be clearheaded as the night goes on.
Eventually, the field opens to a pond that gently slopes downward with a few flat rocks near the edge. Rip lays out a towel as Beth flies past, splashing in before diving underwater.
"Oh my GOD baby, the water is perfect. Come on, you have to come!"
"Beth, how many times do I gotta tell you I'm not coming in?" Rip says, settling down on the towel.
"Party pooper!" Beth taunts, not looking like he has pooped her party on in the slightest as she playfully splashes water around before opting to lie on her back and float, her body illuminated by the moonlight.
"If you ain't gonna join her, you may as well sit, Lila," Rip offers, making space for her on the towel.
Now that Beth's wild splashing is over, the sound of crickets rises from the field, surrounding them in a chorus of chirps.
Rip downs a second beer and lays back on the towel."Turn off the lantern."
She turns it off.
"You ever stargazed in the middle of nowhere, Lila?" He asks.
Lila shakes her head then–realizing he can't see her–says "No."
"Well, lay back and look."
Lila scoots down and lies beside Rip. Her body tingles at the proximity, but the stars provide a welcome and beautiful distraction. Lila did not know the sky could be so clear. There isn't a cloud in sight or a light bright enough to obscure a single star.
"It's something, ain't it? Beth and I would lie on the roof and stargaze sometimes, but nothing beats being in the middle of nowhere and seeing the night sky like this."
Lila turns to Rip and watches as he speaks, his eyes filled with wonder and memories. Maybe she can make memories here too, something to replace the painful ones. This one is a good start.
In the dark, under the stars, laying beside Rip... It's heaven. Lila turns on her side and watches his lips move as he talks about things he and Beth used to get up to.
Rip stops talking after a while, and they lay in silence for some time.
There's the sound of splashing and Rip sits up. Lila looks and sees Beth standing over them, her red hair in wet strands. Lila is thankful for the night obfuscating most of her vision of the naked woman in front of her.
"Hey honey, you ready to go?" Rip asks.
"Yeah baby, just let me sit and enjoy a beer," Beth says, taking a seat in Rip's lap and reaching for the last bottle.
"You couldn't have had nearly as much fun as I did, but did you have fun?" Beth asks Lila.
"Yeah," Lila says. "Thanks for inviting me."
"I know you didn't have a choice," Beth says, grinning and taking a swig, "but thanks for tagging along."
"No problem." Lila smiles back, glad to have a new good memory for once.
Chapter 9: Chapter 9
Summary:
Lila and Beth have a talk
Chapter Text
"I'm gonna talk to her."
"No Beth, you aren't," Rip says exasperatedly with his eyes closed as he tries futilely to get a few winks of sleep.
Beth scoffs. "Look, babe, I know the look she was giving. She's got a big fat crush on you."
"That's nice baby."
Beth shoves him.
Rip groans. "So what if she does? It won't change anything and she'll get over it eventually."
Beth ignores him, continuing her train of thought. "But why did she change her mind about tonight? Did she realize her feelings and get embarrassed?"
"This may surprise you, sweetheart, but some people don't like to run naked through the field and go skinny dipping in ponds at midnight."
"Yeah, some don't," Beth agrees, then sits up in bed and places a hand on Rip's chest, "but she does. She was genuinely excited. You can't fake what I saw, Rip."
"I'm almost afraid to ask, but what exactly do you want to talk to her about, anyway?"
"Well, that depends on your answer," Beth says, straddling his waist.
"To what question?"
"Do you think she's cute?"
Rip sighs again. "Beth..."
"Answer the question–is a thin, black-haired, blue eyed little spitfire attractive to you?"
Rip grabs his pillow and puts it over his face. "Goodnight, Beth."
"If I were her, I would have jumped at the opportunity to show you my body. That's what doesn't make sense. Why did she want to, then decide not to, after whatever Carter said to her?"
"Is this some sort of test or trick? Do you want me to like her, Beth?" Rip mumbles from beneath the pillow.
"Maybe I do."
Rip doesn't respond, but pulls the pillow from his face, giving her an incredulous look.
"I'm not being ridiculous. If she or you get the nerve to do anything but beat around the bush flirting, then I want you to know I'm OK with it."
"Why in the seven hells would you be OK with that, Beth?"
"I have my reasons. Anyway, I'm going to go see what's up with why she changed her mind," Beth says, lifting herself from his waist and sliding out of the bed.
"Don't you go in there talking some nonsense like what you've been telling me, she'll think it's a fever dream," Rip says, rolling over in bed and curling up with his pillow. "Goodnight baby," he says as she heads for the door. Beth blows him a kiss and closes the door, tieing her black robe around her waist and heading for the guest bedroom.
"Knock knock?" Beth says to the crack between the doorframe and door.
"Beth?" Lila asks, sounding very awake.
"Yeah, can I come in?"
There's a quick shuffling before Lila unlocks and opens the door wearing a pink robe after having recently showered. "What's up?"
"I think we need a girl talk."
"Uh," Lila looks into the room, which is a mess, and considers asking to talk in the living room, but Beth is already pushing her way in. She lies on the bed on her stomach and smiles at Lila.
"Did I do something wrong?" Lila asks, looking nervous.
"Not that I know of," Beth says, kicking her feet in the air behind her.
"OK, so what are we talking about?" Lila says hesitantly.
"Why did you flake out tonight?" Beth asks.
Lila sits on the end of the bed, pulling the robe tighter. "I didn't flake."
"Yeah well," Beth leans in, "you were excited about feeling some freedom last night, but did a 180-degree turn tonight. Did Carter say something that bothered you?"
Lila rubs her knees with her palms. "Rip already dealt with that."
"Oh, I know he dealt with Carter. But something changed your mind and I want to know what it was."
"It's nothing."
"Girl, there's nothing you can say that will be worse than the things I've done, said, or experienced in my lifetime."
Lila shifts in place, deciding to tell her what she'd told John earlier about Carter claiming she was seeking attention.
"What did you do for attention?" Beth asks, cocking her head.
"Lots of things. I broke stuff, banged walls, screamed. Whatever I could think of that would wake my dad out of his heroin comas."
"But none of that resulted in positive attention, though, right?" Beth asks.
"My daddy didn't know what positive attention was. He forgot how to feel love after mama died."
"My daddy did too, for a while," Beth says. "Glad he re-learned. And I'm sorry yours didn't get a chance to."
"It's OK, Beth. He wasn't a good man."
"I'd love my daddy if he were the devil himself. You can't help who you love, Lila."
Lila rubs her arm. "There was one thing I could do. You know... For positive attention."
"Oh, yeah?" Beth says, listening intently.
"If I... If I got hurt, he... He'd take care of me. Even forget to shoot up sometimes if I hurt bad enough."
Lila shivers, feeling anxiety pulse through her veins at what she's about to say.
"But I didn't have the good graces to have some slow, degenerative disease that woulda forced daddy to stop long enough to keep me healthy. I always got better too fast." She clenches her hands into fists, tears falling into her lap. "I couldn't hurt enough to save him."
Beth wordlessly sits up in the bed and wraps her arms around Lila, pulling her close.
"Shh," Beth soothes. "I want you to listen to me, Lila. Nothing you could have done would save him. The man was doomed. When he lost your mom, he lost his way and there was no finding him. That's just the way it is."
Lila's tears continue to fall, her shoulders shaking from repressed sobs.
"But you're free now. There's no reason your past should influence your future."
Lila shakes her head. "What I did to hurt myself... That's not going away."
Beth stands from the bed and looks at Lila. "You got scars you're worried about?"
Lila gives a barely perceptible nod.
Beth turns around and lets her robe fall, exposing her back. Burn scars spread like cobwebs, engulfing eighty percent of her back's skin in remnants of flame.
"What happened to you?" Lila says, her tears stopped by the shock.
"Someone tried to blow me up." Beth puts her robe on again. "Listen, this is why I showed you."
Beth gets on her knees, taking Lila's hands in hers. "No matter what scars you have, they don't define you. Time spent worrying about what people might think is time spent keeping you from doing whatever the fuck you want. Life is too short to care."
She stands, smoothing her robe. "People who judge you based on your scars aren't worthy of knowing you. Don't give them your time or energy, understand?"
Lila nods. "Yeah, I think I do."
"Good girl," Beth says, smiling over her shoulder. "Goodnight."
"Goodnight," Lila responds, half-distracted, Beth's words repeating in her mind. That night, Lila sleeps better than she ever had.
Chapter 10: Chapter 10
Summary:
Beth and Lila get a call from Monica
Chapter Text
The next morning, the first thought on Lila's mind is what happened to Carter. She supposes one full day of not worrying was the best she could hope for.
Wait, what time is it? Lila cracks her eyelids open and panics. The sun is out! She throws on her T-shirt and jeans and bolts out the door. Rip told her and Carter this was their second chance, and to never act like they deserve it, yet here she is sleeping in 'till the sun rises. And her lost bet to saddle Rip's horse is now fucked as well. Great.
When she rushes down the steps, the first thing she sees is a plate of breakfast set on the table. Is that for... No, it can't be. Breakfast is a sandwich brought to them by one of the cowboys whenever they remember there are kids working in the stables, not served as a piled high still steaming plate of sausage, eggs and bacon.
Lila leaves the plate and opens the front door, ready to bolt for the stables.
"You eat that fast?" Beth's voice catches her attention from the left of the porch.
"I didn't think it was for me," Lila says, still itching to run.
"Well, I didn't spend all that time cooking for no one to eat it. You better get back inside and sit down."
"I'm late for-" Lila starts.
"It's your day off today. We're going to go shopping. Hopefully, it won't be a disaster like taking your brother out was," Beth says, rolling her eyes. "Now go back in and eat."
Lila makes her way back inside and sits at the table. The meal is more than she'd eaten for breakfast since she can remember. She wolfs it but still savors every bite. When she finishes, she goes back out to where Beth–her sunglasses donned and her car started–sits waiting in the driver's seat.
Lila slips in the passenger side and ogles the fancy leather seats and radio with a touchscreen.
"Now I told Rip we'd be getting jeans and a jacket, but you look like you need some other articles of clothing men don't have to worry about. We'll grab a few bras, panties, and better fitting shirts for you too, OK?"
Lila nods. "Thank you."
They ride in silence for a while. Lila hasn't seen Carter for a full day and the worry is getting to her.
"Hey Beth?"
"Yeah?"
"Where is Carter?"
"Oh." Beth turns into the right lane. "Rip tried dropping him off on the highway." When Lila looks shocked, she adds, "Don't worry, though, he had a change of heart. Your brother is going to be sleeping in the barn for a while until he learns his manners."
"I feel bad for not asking about him yesterday. I was so angry."
"You were right to be. That little shit knows how to push buttons, doesn't he?"
"One of his few talents," Lila mumbles, getting a quick laugh from Beth.
"You wanna find something for us to listen to?" Beth nods toward the radio.
Lila reaches for the radio when a phone icon and the name 'Monica' displays on the screen.
"Huh, I wonder why she's calling," Beth says before pressing the answer button.
"Hey, what's up Monica?"
"Hey, are you busy?"
Beth looks at Lila, then back to the road. "Nah, you need something?"
"I'm being harassed by this store owner, she thinks I stole something. Please, can you help?"
"Where are you?" Beth says, gripping the wheel tighter.
Monica tells Beth where she is. Beth hangs up and speeds in her direction, breaking no fewer than ten traffic laws, Lila would guess. They haphazardly pull up onto a curb near a boutique clothing store.
Beth gets out, and Lila follows. They enter the boutique and Beth closes the door behind them.
"The store is closed. We have a shoplifter being dealt with. Wait... Beth, is that you?" The owner of the store, a haughty looking blonde, asks with surprise.
Beth completely ignores her and heads to the changing room, pulling the curtain to the side. A nearly naked native American woman that Lila presumes is Monica is being strip searched by a fat female officer inside.
"Well, I'm no lawyer, but I believe it's the fourth amendment that deals with unlawful search and seizure," states Beth.
"The search is voluntary," says the officer.
"Sure doesn't look voluntary to me," Beth responds as she snaps a photo. "Leave her alone."
As the officer leaves the room, Beth Dutton exits with her, closing the curtain so Monica can get dressed.
The officer ducks her head like a scorned dog and retreats, leaving the building.
"Thank you," Monica says as she exits the dressing room and heads for the exit.
"No, no no Monica, we aren't done here," Beth says. "Lila, lock the door and flip the sign to closed would you?"
Lila does so, turning back around when she is done.
"I told you we'd go shopping, so let's do it," Beth says, picking up a decorative candle holder.
She bounces it in her hand before gripping it like a hammer and smashing through the glass case in front of her. The boutique owner cringes but says nothing.
"Well?" Beth says to Lila, opening her arm across the room, "pick anything you like. I'm sure little Miss Prissy won't make a peep about it."
"In the meantime," Beth pulls a dress off a nearby hanger, turning her attention to the woman, "I want you to try this on for me."
Lila looks around the boutique, feeling overwhelmed. One dress from this place looks more expensive than every piece of clothing she's owned combined.
While Lila hesitates, Beth does not. She rips clothes from the hangers and tosses them to the floor, breaks more glass cases, and torments the shopkeeper.
A pair of cowgirl boots catches Lila's eye. They're dark brown leather and look like a pair Lila had seen Beth wearing. She takes off her shoes and tries on the boots, finding them to be a perfect fit.
"Spanx aren't fooling anyone sweetie, we all know you've got no ass," Beth says as the woman strips down to her undergarments.
Lila finds a section for young women with some less ostentatious clothing–dresses in soft colors, pants and shorts, and a few light jackets.
"How much can I pick?" Lila asks.
"You can have the whole fucking store. Take what you want to the trunk," Beth says, still circling the woman like a predator toying with its doomed prey.
Lila grabs a few dresses, three pairs of pants and two pairs of shorts, tosses her old shoes into the bundle, then takes the haul to the trunk. When she returns, Beth is demanding that the woman remove her bra.
"Only fair, since you had Monica do the same," Beth says, trying on rings from a display she just finished smashing.
"Lila," Beth turns to the teen, "go pick out some bras and stuff. They're on the back wall."
Lila nods and heads to the back.
The bras and panties are like nothing Lila ever saw. Some are frilly with lace, some are silky and sheer, and others look like they'd barely cover anything.
"Take it all off," Beth demands, indicating the woman's underwear.
"Beth," Monica interrupts.
"Yeah?" Beth says, taking the rings off and throwing them over her shoulder.
"Stop, please. We can go now," she says.
"You sure Monica?"
Monica nods. "I'm sure."
Beth leans toward the shopkeeper. "You better be thankful to her for making me stop. I could've gone all night."
"Let's go," Monica says, unlocking the door.
"Lila, come on," Beth yells. Lila, who still hadn't decided on anything, grabs an armful of stuff in her size and rushes to the door.
When the three make it to the car, Lila slips into the back seat while the women take the front.
"You're a good person, Monica," Beth says as they pull off the curb.
"I just didn't want to see more of her stuff destroyed."
Beth smiles. "Even when you were wronged, you didn't want her to suffer. And funnily enough, that's the part that will make her suffer the most."
Chapter 11: Chapter 11
Summary:
Lila discusses Carter with Rip
Chapter Text
Lila is sure to wake up before the sun rises the next morning. She dresses in a work shirt, a pair of new pants and her nice new cowboy boots and opens the door, stepping out into the hallway and bumping right into Rip.
"Morning," Rip says, steadying her with a firm grip on her shoulders. "Did you get that when you were out with Beth?" He asks, his eyes traveling across her new outfit.
She nods, willing her cheeks to stay cool as her eyes lock onto his, subconsciously biting her lower lip.
"It looks good on you," Rip says, letting her shoulders go and meeting her eyes. Lila releases her lower lip and diverts her gaze.
"Th-thanks," Lila sputters, turning away to hide her blush.
Rip catches a glimpse of her reddened cheeks but doesn't pry.
"Mr. Dutton said the fence along the back of one of the pastures needs fixed. Gonna be a two-day job. Do you want to help?" Rip asks.
"I work here, don't I? Just tell me what you need me to do and I'll do it, sir."
"You don't gotta call me sir, Lila. Just plain ole Rip is good."
Lila finally meets his eyes. "I want to."
"Well," Rip says, rubbing the back of his neck, "I guess that's fine, then. Hey, uh, I got you something. One sec."
Rip disappears toward his room, then comes back out with his hands behind his back.
"Close your eyes."
Lila obeys and feels Rip place a hat on her head.
"Open 'em and look in the mirror."
Lila turns to the hallway mirror and finds herself wearing a gorgeous dark brown cowboy hat.
"Since you'll be working outside all day, you may as well have a hat to keep the sun outta your eyes. Ready to go?" Rip asks, starting down the stairs.
Lila runs her fingers along the brim of the hat admiringly. Looking back at her is a young woman she never thought she'd meet, a real cowgirl. Well, at least in looks.
"You comin'?" Rip asks from the bottom of the staircase.
Without a second thought, Lila rushes down the stairs, leaping into Rip. He catches her with a surprised grunt as she wraps her arms around his shoulders and buries her face in his neck.
"Thank you so much for this. For everything. Thank you for giving us a home. I promise I won't let you down, sir."
Then, realizing what she's done, Lila lets go of Rip and lowers herself to the floor bashfully.
"Sorry..."
"No, no," Rip says, brushing her hair out of her eyes, then straightening her hat. "Don't be sorry for being thankful. You're welcome. Now come on."
The two head to the barn and Lila saddles both their horses while Rip gathers the fence mending tools and materials along with a small tent, a sack Lila assumes is filled with food, and a firestarter. When everything is ready, they set off for the eastern fence.
The sun rises as they ride and beats down with ferocity by the time they reach the fence. Rip shows her how to pull the wire taught and mend busted sections. The work is hard and grueling, but Lila is true to her convictions and never complains even as her fingers grow sore.
When the sky turns golden-red, Rip approaches Lila while wrapping fence cord around a spool.
"We need a fire and a tent. I'm sure you're starving cause I sure as hell am. Which do you want to handle?"
"I'll do the fire and make dinner," Lila says.
Rip nods and the two set off to their tasks. When they reconvene, the tent is ready and Rip starts a fire in the pile of sticks Lila collected.
"Hope you don't mind dry biscuits and beans," Rip says, blowing on the embers.
"At this point I'll eat a horse, I'm starving," Lila says, tossing her armful of sticks beside the burgeoning fire and plopping down in the dirt.
"You did good work today," Rip says.
He opens a can of beans and pours it into a pot before setting it on the fire.
"Thanks," Lila says, peeling her dirty gloves off.
The two sit in comfortable silence while the beans cook. Rip divvies the food up and hands Lila her plate.
"So uh," Lila starts after a while, "why did you let Carter come home?"
"Did you not want him to come back? I can still leave him on the side of the road-"
"No, no, I just wanna know how he changed your mind."
Rip leans back, setting his bowl in his lap. "Well, he said life is cruel and unfair."
"And that made you want to give him a second chance?"
"Hell no," Rip says. "That's a fact of life. Better he learn it now than later. So I kicked him out on the side of the road. He flipped me off as I drove away."
Lila looks confused. "And... That made you turn around?"
Rip laughs. "No, that wasn't it." He looks up, meeting her curious gaze. "It was you."
Lila blinks. "Me? How?"
"You love him, don't you? Even when he pisses you off?"
"He's my family."
"Family don't mean you love 'em."
Lila sets her empty bowl down. "Yeah, I love him, the little shit."
Rip smiles. "Yeah. I loved my little brother, too. So I wouldn't want to be the one to take him away from you."
"No offense Rip, but if you kicked Carter out, I'd be two steps behind him."
"Yeah, I figured as much." Rip scrapes the sides of his bowl with a spoon.
"Wait so you kept Carter-"
"-so you wouldn't leave." He stands and collects her plate, rinsing it out with his canteen and packing the bowls in his saddlebag. When he turns back to Lila, she's sitting with her legs pulled up to her chest, her forehead resting on her knees.
"You OK?" He asks, approaching and settling down beside her.
"When daddy died I thought," she raises her head and looks at him while trying to steady her shaky voice, "well there's one thing a girl can do to keep her family sheltered and fed."
Her expression is that of a woman far beyond her years. Someone who's had to consider things no one should ever have to. Rip's eyes harden. "Baby girl, don't even think like that."
Lila's heart flutters. "Well, thanks to you, I don't have to."
"Thank Beth. She was the one who brought you two home."
"Yeah, but she told us it was up to you and you kept us. So," Lila leans in, her eyes glistening, "thank you." Lila closes the distance between them, pressing her lips against his.
Chapter 12: Chapter 12
Summary:
Lila and Rip have a serious talk
Chapter Text
Lila's hands cup his face, her thumbs caressing his bearded jawline. After a moment she pulls back and gazes into his deep blue eyes before worry floods her features.
"Oh my God," she whispers. "I'm so sorry. I don't-" she pulls her hands from him.
"Don't be sorry."
Lila turns, looking anywhere but at Rip. "I don't want to disrespect Beth. I couldn't help myself. Oh God, she's gonna kill me."
"Hey, hey," Rip says, attempting to calm the frightened teen. "She won't kill you, Lila. Believe me, she told me as much."
"W-what?" Lila asks, looking bewildered.
"I thought the same damn thing, but she wants..."
Rip sighs.
"Well, I don't know what she wants exactly. But she told me she's OK with whatever you wanna call this."
"Me kissing her soon-to-be husband?" Lila says with confusion.
Rip rubs the back of his neck uncomfortably. "Hell, I ain't cut out for this conversation."
"What were Beth's exact words?"
"She said if we ever wanted to do more than flirt she's OK with it. Confused the time outta me, honestly. Beth ain't usually one to share her supper, much less me."
"Well I have a question."
Rip meets her eyes.
"What do you want?"
"Same as always: protect the ranch, protect my family."
"Anyone can see that, Rip. I'm asking what you want when it comes to me."
Rip looks steadily at the girl's hopeful expression.
"I want you to be happy."
"What would you say if I told you nothing would make me happier than being with you?" Lila asks, her voice soft.
"I'd say you should reconsider. I'm not a good man, Lila. I've lied. Stolen. Killed people. You don't want anything to do with that."
"I don't know if you think I'm some sort of saint but I've lied and stolen too, and I would've killed at least a few people if I coulda."
Rip hones in on her last statement like a hunting dog on a scent.
"You want anyone taken care of with good enough reason, you come to me. You don't kill anyone unless you've got to, understand?"
A face flashes through Lila's mind at Rip's offer, but Lila has more pressing desires than revenge.
"Alright Rip, I understand," Lila says. "But all I want right now is to know if I can kiss you again. This time without thinking I'm gonna be murdered for it."
Rip laughs. "I'm not sure that's the best idea, darlin'. I barely know which way is up anymore."
The sun has set by now, and the crickets are chirping loudly. Lila crosses her arms as the chill of the night settles in.
"We should be settling down, come on to the tent before you catch a cold," Rip says, standing and brushing his pants off.
"Wait," Lila stands. "Can you answer a question for me?"
Rip stops, turns around, and nods once.
"Do you like me?"
"Lila," Rip starts, "you're about to turn seventeen. I'm thirty-something. Doesn't that bother you?"
"All my life people been telling me I don't know what I want, that I'm not old enough to understand or that I don't have enough life experience to make decisions."
She strides towards Rip, stopping in front of him. She is quite a bit shorter than the 6'1 cowboy and has to angle her head upward to see him past the brim of her hat before she continues.
"I've been making decisions and living as an adult since I can remember. I never got to be a kid. The only time my age has ever mattered is when people older than me try to tell me that I can't do or feel something."
"So no," she continues, "your age doesn't bother me. Now answer my question."
Rip looks into her bright blue eyes, hesitating.
Then nods.
"Yeah. I do. Course I like you, Lila. You think I'd ask someone I don't like to spend two days with me? Hell no."
Lila's face brightens, a smile spreading from ear to ear. "I can live with that. If I can't kiss you, can I have a hug?"
Rip concedes, opening an arm to her. Lila wraps her arms around his midsection, squeezing tight.
"Now let's get some sleep," Rip mumbles. Against his better judgment, he briefly kisses the top of her head. Lila's heart flutters at the gentle affection.
That night, cozied up in her sleeping bag, Lila listens to the soft sound of Rip's breathing. There had been others that had told Lila they liked her, but none of their admissions had effected her the way Rip's did.
Her mind runs wild. Why in the world would Beth encourage her to be with her fiancé? She'd seen the way Beth loves him. Every time she is around Rip she lights up, so why is she OK with– encouraging, even–of Lila's attraction?
With more questions than answers bouncing around her mind and her body still buzzing from Rip's affection, getting calmed down proves difficult. Lila last thought before sleep overtakes her is the way his eyes drank her in after their first kiss.
Chapter 13: Chapter 13
Summary:
Beth and Lila have a heart-to-heart
Chapter Text
They finish fixing the fence in the morning and make it back home by noon.
"I've got to go check on the cowboys and make sure they haven't set the bunkhouse on fire," Rip says as the pair ride into the stables.
"Where've you guys been?" Carter asks, emerging from a nearby stall.
"Fixing the eastern fence," Rip answers, getting off his horse and offering Lila a hand. She takes his hand and hops down from Miss Maddie. "See you two later," Rip says, then exits the stables.
"Why didn't you tell me you were going?" Carter asks as soon as he leaves. "I saw y'all just get up and go. Guess I don't mean shit to you anymore, do I?"
"Carter, I didn't have time. He asked me to go and I said yes," Lila says as she unsaddles Rip's horse.
"So that's it then, we're done looking after each other? While you were gone I had NO ONE! Even Beth hates me!" Carter fumes, his hands balled into fists.
"Did you apologize to Beth? She doesn't hate you, she's upset 'cause of how you acted," Lila says, leading Rip's horse to it's stall.
"Yeah I apologized but she didn't accept it. I think I'm going to leave, I wanted to tell you first before I left since unlike you, I still care about my family."
Lila finishes unsaddling Miss Maddie, turning to her brother. "You need to try apologizing again, Carter." Lila pats the horses neck. "Bring her some flowers or something, dont give up OK? I think we can really make something for ourselves here."
"You just don't want me to leave because then you'd have to pick between me and Rip. No wonder you jumped at the chance to run off with him without telling anyone. I bet if I left you'd try to stay, even though it's cause of me that you're even here in the first place!"
Lila grits her teeth. "Carter, stop. You know I'd come with you. But I would resent you for it. I know things have been rough but I'm actually starting to feel happy for once in my life. Please try to make up with Beth?"
Carter huffs, but unballs his fists. "Fine. I'll try, but if it doesn't work then I'm getting out of here."
"Fair enough, I'll finish cleaning out the stalls, okay? You work on getting some flowers."
Carter nods. "Alright." He starts to walk off, then turns around and rushes to Lila, hugging her tightly. "Don't leave me like that again OK? Please like, I don't know, write a note or something if you're leaving for more than a day? This place without you is so fucking lonely."
Lila squeezes him back. "Alright, and I'm sorry I didn't say anything last time. I won't leave without telling you first next time."
Carter sniffs, releasing her and backing up. "Thanks. Uhm, the shovel is in that stall. See you later."
"Yeah, see you," Lila responds, heading to resume cleaning where Carter left off.
---
It takes two hours to finish cleaning the stalls then feeding the horses. When she finishes Lila heads home, having decided to clean her room and hang up her new clothes. With two hours to spare before everyone is home, she decides to try and cook something.
The fridge has potatoes, a chicken, some pasta, and broccoli. In the cabinet she finds some pasta sauce and decides to attempt making chicken alfredo with a baked potato side.
When her and Carter lived with their dad she often made dinner from scraps. Lila realizes she actually likes cooking when she isn't doing it out of necessity.
Eventually Beth walks in, her heels clicking on the wood floor.
"Ugh, Lila, today was NOT a good day–wait, what are you doing?" She asks, setting her handbag on the chair.
"Uhm, making dinner? Sorry, I probably should have asked first," Lila says.
"Fuck that, you can cook dinner every damn day if you want to, I never was much of a chef. Need any help?"
"No you go on and get comfortable, it'll be ready in fifteen."
"Cool," Beth says, then walks up the stairs. "Did you and Rip have a good time?" She asks, shouting from the bedroom.
"Yeah, we got the whole fence mended," Lila says with false composure, pulling the potatoes from the oven.
"That doesn't sound like a good time," Beth pops her head out of the bedroom, "what about the kiss, did you like that?"
Lila drops the knife she'd been using to cut the chicken and it clatters to the floor.
"That good, huh?" Beth snickers, closing the door to the bedroom and heading down the stairs wearing a simple yellow dress.
"I'm sorry," Lila says, feeling Beth's eyes on her back but not daring to turn around.
"Didn't he tell you I told him it was okay?" Beth asks. Lila turns around and Beth is standing by the dining room table with her head cocked questioningly.
"Well, yeah, but he didn't seem to think you meant it," Lila answers. "Either way, I am sorry still since I didn't ask you before I did it. It was wreckless of me."
"Well," Beth says, pouring out a glass of whiskey, "Rip has a thing for wreckless women. You got lucky–very lucky, in fact. Just wait 'till you fuck him."
Lila's brain comes to a standstill.
"His cock is like this," Beth demonstrates with her hands what Lila thinks has to be an exaggerated size, "fucking huge."
"I don't-" Lila starts.
"Understand why I'm willing to share my incredible specimen of a man? I'll tell you sometime, but for now just enjoy it. Seriously, go wild. Cheers." Beth holds up her whiskey, nods to Lila, then downs the whole glass in one go.
Lila wants to say something, anything, but the door opening interrupts her scattered thoughts.
Rip and Carter walk in chatting like old friends. Rip heads to the table, wraps his arm around Beth's waist and kisses her deeply. When they separate he smiles and says, "Pour me one too, sweetheart?"
Chapter 14: Chapter 14
Summary:
Rip finally understands Beth
Chapter Text
"Damn, that was a good dinner, Beth," Rip says as he brings his plate to the sink.
"You can thank Lila for that," Beth responds, helping Lila to wash the dishes.
"You made dinner?" Carter asks incredulously. "I thought all you could make were leftovers."
"Where do you think leftovers come from, idiot?" Lila crumples a napkin and throws it at Carter. He ducks, but the ball still bounces off the top of his head.
"You see what I have to deal with, Rip?" Carter complains. Rip laughs, patting the boy on his back.
"Why don't you get on and get to your room?" Rip says as Carter finishes his last bite.
"Can I watch TV?" He asks Beth.
"Yeah, just don't stay up too late."
"I won't! Thank you!" Carter brings his plate to the sink, then rushes upstairs to the room beside Lila's.
Lila feels the air leave the room with the sound of his door closing. Now that Carter is gone, there is nothing to distract her from her recalling what Beth had said.
Beth nonchalantly finishes scrubbing the last dish and Rip makes his way to the couch, sitting down with a beer.
"So Rip," Beth starts, wiping her hands on a towel.
Rip looks over his shoulder. "Yeah?"
"Lila didn't seem to think you believed me when I said I don't mind you two doing more than flirting."
"That could be because she's a tad more sensible than you give her credit for," Rip says, taking a drink.
"Well, I was being serious. I may as well say it to both of you, since my fiancé's loyalty outweighs his libido."
"Beth, you're making everyone uncomfortable. The poor girl has said nothing all night."
Beth nudges Lila. "You enjoyed the kiss, right?"
Lila-who had already been jittery-blushes furiously. But, not wanting to ignore the question, she nods.
"Then you should kiss him again. And Rip, this time, don't be so coy. We both know you're a gentleman, but you're not a gentle man."
"I still don't know what's got into you, Beth. If this is your version of a test, can we skip to the end where you tell me what you really want?"
"It's not a test, baby. She likes you and I know you won't do shit about it unless I make it abundantly clear I want you to."
"Tell you what, Beth. You tell me why you want me to, and I'll kiss her right now."
"Yeah? You will?"
"I will."
Beth puts her hands on her hips. "How many women have you been with, Rip?"
Rip smiles. "Just you."
"Wait, for real?" Beth asks, looking surprised.
"I swear it."
"Then that should be enough of a reason. I've had so many men I've lost count. Doesn't seem fair, does it?"
"I don't care how many men you've been with, sweetheart, you're with me now."
"Yeah, well, I do. And I know what it's like to be in Lila's position, except this time I can let her know it's OK and she doesn't have to sneak around for years like we did."
"So you want us together because you think it isn't fair you've been with other people? I think I'd have to give a damn about it for that to be a good reason."
"Well, let's ask Lila what she wants."
Lila, who had been listening awkwardly standing by the fridge, looks petrified at being called upon.
"You want this, right? You'd like to be with Rip?"
Lila's entire body feels hotter than the surface of the sun when their attention switches to her.
"She's about to burst baby, let her-"
"I do. I want to be with you, Rip," Lila says, her hands trembling from anxiety and adrenaline.
"Oh Lord," Rip says, pushing his hat back and rubbing his forehead.
"You know, baby, it's most men's fantasy to get to have two women. I don't know why you're making this so complicated."
"Someone has to live in reality, Beth. Not every fantasy can or should happen."
"So it is your fantasy, then?" Beth prys.
"Honestly, I never thought of any other woman but you until you put this notion in my mind, and I still haven't figured out why you're trying to make this happen."
"Isn't the fact she wants you and I want you to have her enough?"
"No, honey. No, it isn't."
Beth throws her hands up. "Why am I the one woman who has to beg her man to enjoy himself?"
Out of a poignant combination of adrenaline, desire, and fear of missing her chance, Lila makes a move. In a few quick seconds she moves from the kitchen to the living room couch, straddles Rip's lap, and pulls him into a passionate kiss.
"That's my girl!" Beth cheers.
Lila laces her fingers through Rip's hair, knocking his hat off. It falls to the floor, forgotten.
Lila's heart skips a beat when Rip rests his hands on her hips, reciprocating her affection.
Savoring in the feel of his lips against hers, Lila tries to deepen the kiss. To her disappointment, Rip breaks the kiss altogether and gives her a curious look.
"You really want this that bad?" He asks, smoothing her hair behind her ear.
Lila nods, his touch leaving tingles in its wake.
His eyes are soft.
"Why?"
She hesitates, finding the right words.
"I feel better than I've ever felt when I'm with you." Lila wraps her arms around him. "I don't want to ever stop feeling this way."
"Is that really all there is to it?" Rip asks.
Lila pulls back, placing her hands on his broad shoulders. "What do you mean?"
Rip sighs. "Did Beth set you up to this?"
"Rip-" Beth starts, but he holds up a hand, silencing her.
"Let her answer," he says to Beth.
"And be honest," he directs at Lila.
"No, she didn't. Is it so hard to believe that I like you? Gees," Lila says playfully.
"A little, yeah. And I never knew Beth to be one to share anything willingly and I have to say, I never dreamed she'd be cheering for another woman to kiss me."
"You calling me selfish, baby?" Beth says, moving to the front of the couch to face him.
"I like you selfish, Beth. I enjoy being yours. Tell me what you haven't been saying. I know this is not about fairness."
Lila senses a shift in the conversation's tone and moves off Rip's lap, sitting beside him.
To her surprise, Beth has tears in her eyes.
"Look at her, Rip. She's young. Beautiful." She pauses, biting the inside of her cheek. "Whole."
Rip stands from the couch. "So that's what this is about," he says. Tears are streaming down Beth's face. She turns on her heel and rushes to the front door, throwing it open and running outside.
"Ah, hell," Rip says. He glances at Lila then hurries after Beth, slamming the door behind him.
Chapter 15: Chapter 15
Summary:
Rip and Lila get close...
Chapter Text
la sits on the couch, unsure of what to do. What did Beth mean by her being 'whole'?
"Did they get into a fight or something?" Carter asks, peeking from the top of the stairs. "I heard the door slam."
Fuck, Lila had forgotten Carter was so close by. Thank God he didn't come down earlier.
"No, Beth was sad and ran out, and Rip went after her."
"It wasn't something I did, right?" Carter says, looking hesitant.
"Nothing about you."
"Oh, good." Carter continues peeking down the stairs. "Uh, wanna watch a movie or something? They have a whole bunch of channels."
Lila stands from the couch, feeling lightheaded. The ghost of Rip's kiss is still on her lips. He'd kissed her like he meant it, touched her like a lover would, then left before she could process any of it.
"Lila?" Carter says, snapping her out of her reverie.
"Oh yeah, sure," Lila says, heading upstairs with Carter.
Lila wakes to the sound of muffled voices from where she'd fallen asleep at the foot of Carter's bed, Carter sprawled out snoring at the opposite end. A while after she hears the bedroom door close, Lila exits the room and heads into hers.
When she wakes again, she gets ready to go to the barn and heads out with Carter. After spending some time together, tensions have simmered down and the two have fun kicking a rock down the path and arguing over who kicked it furthest.
When they get to the barn, Lila saddles Rip's horse, but he doesn't come by to claim him, so she unsaddles him after a while. As she's taking the saddle to the wall to hang it up, Lila hears a voice.
"Hey," Beth looks straight out of New York, wearing her business attire and striding toward the teens. After last night, Lila's not sure how to react.
"Beth," Carter says. "Hey."
Beth doesn't acknowledge Carter. Instead, she turns to Lila. "I'm gonna need to talk to you, babe."
Lila gives the redhead a worried look. "About what?"
"Come on," Beth responds, ignoring the question and leaving the barn.
Lila glances at Carter, then at the retreating figure of Beth before running to catch up to her.
"What is it?" She asks when she reaches Beth's side.
"My daddy wants us to move in to his house."
Lila looks off in the distance toward the huge Yellowstone ranch home. "There?" She asks, in awe.
"Yeah," Beth says, approaching her car.
"Wait, us as in Carter and me too?"
"Yup."
"Holy shit," Lila says, then covers her mouth. "Oops, sorry."
"Don't worry about it, Lila, you're welcome to curse as much as you'd like. Listen, I gotta go do something. I won't be home tonight and we're moving in with dad tomorrow so I wanted you to spend the night with Rip." Beth opens her car door and slips into the driver's seat.
"You mean-"
"I mean whatever you want that to mean. Rip got his answers last night, so he won't be all nervous about it anymore."
"He wasn't nervous, he was being respectful."
Beth smiles. "I like when you defend him, its cute. Anyway, I'm headed out. See you tomorrow afternoon."
Beth shuts the car door and speeds off, leaving Lila in the dust.
–
Carter goes to hang at the bunkhouse, so Lila heads home by herself. With more than a few hours to spare before Rip will be back, Lila puts some beef from the fridge in the crock pot, along with some stock and vegetables.
As she finishes preparing dinner, her stomach growls. "Maybe I should eat now before Rip gets here," she thinks out loud.
After eating some chips, she goes back into the living room. Intending to read for a while; instead, she stares blankly at the TV screen and recounts last night's events.
It's not until later that she hears the front door open.
"Hello?" She calls out, walking toward the entrance. Her heart skips a beat when she sees Rip standing there.
"Hi," she says, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Hi," Rip responds.
They stare at each other for a moment before both smiling awkwardly.
"Are you hungry?" Lila asks nervously.
"Sure am. You make something?"
Lila nods, heading for the kitchen while Rip removes his jacket and hat. They sit down at the table and eat in silence until their bowls are empty.
"Can I ask you some personal questions?" Lila says once their plates are cleared away.
Rip hums in agreement.
"How long have you two been dating?" She asks, scooting forward slightly.
Rip laughs a little and leans back against the chair.
"We've known each other since childhood, actually."
"Really?"
Rip nods. "But it depends on your definition of dating. We went years without seeing each other sometimes. I never stopped loving her, though."
"So, can I ask why she is so encouraging of me liking you? She said you 'got answers' last night, but then sped off without an explanation."
"Yep, she'll do that," Rip says, shaking his head in exasperation. "Now I ain't the best at explanations, but you're owed one, so I'll try."
He sighs, rubbing his knees under the table. "Beth can't have children. When she saw your brother, I guess she saw a kid who needed help and thought maybe she could replace a hole in her heart with him. She told me she didn't know he had a sister, but she was glad to welcome you along, too."
He pauses, and Lila leans in further. "OK, then what?"
"Well, Beth likes you, and she doesn't like many people. When she figured out you like me, she got this notion that... I don't know. Fuck, Lila, I don't know how to say this."
"Because she can't have your baby... She wants me to?"
Rip's mouth snaps shut and his face goes red.
Lila can't help herself and giggles at his expression.
"We're a bit far from that, I think," Rip says, clearing his throat nervously.
"But that is what she's saying?"
Rip hesitantly nods once.
Lila leans back in her chair. "Makes sense why she wanted to share now."
Rip raises his eyebrows, waiting for her to say something else.
"I... I guess I'm trying to wrap my mind around it. Is she OK with waiting? Like... A while? I always wanted kids, but I'm pretty young and-" She swallows hard, looking down at her hands resting in her lap.
Rip takes her hand in his. "Baby girl, listen. I told her the only way I would be OK with this is if everything was up to you. When or if it happens is your decision."
He continues, "You won't lose your place here either, Lila. Even if you decide you want nothing to do with me. You couldn't live with us anymore, of course, but there's always a place for you here at the ranch. Alright?"
Lila nods, biting her bottom lip.
"What else is on your mind?" Rip asks.
"What else is on my mind?" She repeats. "I've spent most my life thinking I would never have a family that cared about me. Ever since I can remember my life has been a struggle. I finally know what it feels like to be happy for longer than a moment, but I feel overwhelmed. Not bad overwhelmed, but still. You know?"
"I am too," Rip says. "Things have been changing fast, you tell me what you want and from now on, we'll do that."
"One more question?" Lila says.
"Of course."
"Now that you know what Beth wants, will you be more affectionate? It's been mostly me pushing for things and I get you were uncomfortable but-"
Rip leans in. "Baby girl, if you want me to be more assertive, that's all you needed to say." He uses his hand in hers and pulls her up from her chair and into his lap.
She gasps as he wraps her in his muscular arms, his masculine scent enveloping her.
"So you really like me?" Lila asks, kicking her feet that dangle from his lap.
"I do."
"You think I'm pretty?"
"Mmhm." He smiles.
"Prove it," Lila says, looking mischievously at him through her lashes.
Chapter 16: *Chapter 16
Summary:
Something about Lila is revealed...
Chapter Text
Rip chuckles in response before lowering his lips to hers for a brief, sweet kiss. Then he moves, lifting her legs higher onto the chair and bringing them closer together.
Lila gasps in surprise, feeling his erection pressing between her thighs through his denim jeans, her skin burning with arousal.
"Does that prove it, baby girl?" Rip says, his voice low.
Lila's whole body is trembling in nervous excitement as she nods slowly.
Rip gently slides one leg up around his waist, then the other. She gasps as his hips move against hers in slow, yet powerful circles.
"Rip..." She whispers, pulling herself closer to him.
He hums.
"More," she quietly pleads.
He presses another gentle kiss to her lips before kissing her neck, trailing small kisses up to her ear. "Do you trust me?"
"Yes," she whispers, her voice breathy.
"Good," he replies, placing soft kisses along her jawline.
Lila cranes her neck, giving him better access. "Rip...please," she pleads, tugging on his hair.
"Yes, Lila?" He breathes huskily, pressing his lips lightly at her pulse point.
"Please, Rip..."
"Say it again," he demands.
"Please... please..." she whimpers, her back arching.
"Again," he commands roughly, tightening his grip on her waist.
"Please!" She moans loudly and rocks against Rip, her hips grinding into him.
Rip pulls her tighter against his chest and pushes against her, eliciting another moan from her lips.
"Harder," she gasps. "Harder."
"Anything for you, baby girl."
Rip rocks her back and forth against him until Lila feels herself getting dizzier and dizzier. Waves of pleasure surge through her and make her whimper helplessly. The only thing keeping her grounded is Rip's firm grip on her hips.
Her muscles relax in every part of her body, and after a while she stops moving, lying in his arms exhaustedly.
Rip lays his cheek on top of her head, holding her tightly and caressing her back.
They stay like that for what seems like ages until the last of the tension leaves Lila's body. Her eyes flutter shut and she can faintly hear Rip talking to her.
"You okay?" He asks quietly. "Did you want to sleep with me tonight?"
Lila nods her head silently, her body still tingling.
"Alright. Let's go upstairs then?"
"Yeah," she whispers in response.
Rip lifts her and carries her upstairs. She's asleep by the time they reach the bed. Rip lays her down, covers her, then slips in bed beside her and wraps her in his arms. She snuggles into him unconsciously, and Rip drifts off to sleep.
-
The next morning, Lila wakes when Rip leaves the bed. She groans in protest, reaching for him.
He leans over the side of the bed and kisses her forehead. She seizes her opportunity and wraps her arms around the back of his neck, pulling him down.
He chuckles as she squeezes tight, refusing to let go.
"Sweetheart, I have to get to work."
Lila pouts. "Please?" She whispers. The word recalls last night, and she squeezes him even harder.
"As much as I love to hear you say that, I have to keep my promise to Mr. Dutton. Can't fall behind on my duties." Rip smooths her hair when she reluctantly releases him.
"Aren't we moving today?" Lila sleepily questions.
"Sure are."
"Want me to pack our stuff?"
"If you want to stay and pack, the suitcases are in the closet. All we need is our clothes. Everything else should already be at the house. I'll leave work a bit early to get everything settled in."
"Rip?"
"Yes, baby girl?"
"What's going to happen when someone finds out about us?"
Rip shakes his head. "I'm counting on Beth to explain. I wouldn't know what to say."
"Me either," Lila laments.
"We'll figure it out, Lila. I do have to go now, though. I'll see you this afternoon."
-
Once everything is packed, Lila heads to the barn. Carter exits a nearby stall when he hears her enter.
"I spent the night with the cowboys last night," he says happily. "I think they like me."
I spent the night with a cowboy too, and I know he likes me, Lila thinks, smiling. "That's cool-"
"And this morning, Mr. Dutton taught me how to ride! But man, I'm sore as hell."
"I got sore too, riding for the first time. Hoping it's something you get used to."
"So yesterday you said we were moving, right?"
"Yup," Lila responds, nodding. "I got all our stuff packed."
"Have you still not told them? They'll find out sometime if you don't say something yourself."
The blood runs from Lila's face. "It won't happen."
Carter gives a disbelieving look. "You always say that, then it always happens."
Lila bites her lip. "We're out of that life, Carter. Things are different."
"Your brain can't fix itself in one week, Lila. Maybe they can help if you tell them."
"No," Lila says forcibly. "It won't happen. It can't. I won't let it."
"Don't get pissy! I'm trying to help you, idiot." Carter says angrily before reentering the stall and emerging with a wheelbarrow that he takes to the manure pile.
Lila rubs her arms, goosebumps having risen despite the heat. She should warn them, but what's the appropriate time to tell someone you're broken?
Never, because she won't let it happen, Lila resolves.
Chapter 17: Chapter 17
Summary:
Beth hears a call to action
Chapter Text
"That everything?" John Dutton asks as Rip brings the last of the suitcases inside.
"Yes sir," Rip says, setting the suitcases down.
"Glad to have people to live in these rooms, this house may finally stop feeling like a haunted mansion," John says gruffly.
"Can I pick my room?!" Carter asks, looking with anticipation at Mr. Dutton.
"Sure, kid. Upstairs, to the right. Pick any room along that hallway."
Carter grins. "Thank you!" He runs upstairs taking two steps at a time.
"Uhm, Mr. Dutton?" Lila starts.
"Yeah?"
"Do you have any rooms kinda far away from everyone else's?"
John thinks. "There's a smaller room on the other end of the house, it ain't as big as the others. Still has an attached bathroom, though."
"Can that be my room?"
"Why sure, I don't see why not." John nods, then gives her directions to her new bedroom.
Lila takes her suitcase and carries it to the room, opening the door. The walls are a light blue, the bed is simple white with a Queen-sized mattress, and an oak dresser stands against the opposite wall.
She lays her suitcase on the bed and opens it, pulling out her clothes and organizing them.
"Knock knock," Beth says, pushing the door open and closing it once she enters the room.
"Hey Beth," Lila says, folding a pair of pants and setting them on the bed.
"You have fun last night?" Beth asks. Lila turns to face her, and Beth is smirking.
"Yeah, I did," Lila responds, turning to hide her embarrassment.
"I remember dry humping Rip like it was yesterday," Beth reminisces. "Try trailing your fingertips down his back, makes him shiver."
"Does he tell you everything we do?" Lila asks, keeping her back turned.
"Only cause I ask. Why? You want me to stop asking?"
Lila sets a second pair of jeans down. "It's not something I'm used to discussing is all, I don't know how to respond."
"I know how excited I was when I was with him especially as a teen. Thought you might want to have someone to talk to about it."
Lila thinks, blushing slightly. It is nice to have someone other than Rip that she doesn't have to hide her feelings with. "It's just strange. You know, you being his fiancée and all."
"Not strange unless you make it strange, girly. We're in what you might call a polyamorous relationship. Or polygamous, or whatever label you want to use. If we're going to be sharing one man we should get used to sharing with each other too."
"What exactly are we sharing aside from Rip?" Lila asks.
"Emotions, memories, I dunno. Stuff. Listen, its the first time I've done anything like this too, you know. I think we'll figure it out faster if we're open with each other. Gal pals and all that."
Lila sits on the end of the bed. "Alright, I'll try."
"Cool, so is Rip your first boyfriend?" Beth asks.
The word boyfriend rolls around in Lila's mind so intoxicatingly that she nearly forgets to answer.
"I'd never used labels before with anyone. So yeah, I guess."
"Ooh," Beth grins, "that's awesome. He was my first boyfriend too. Is he going to be your first, you know..." Beth makes a gesture with her hands to symbolize fucking.
"Uh," Lila looks down. "No. I wish, but no. I-" she swallows. She'd never told anyone–not even Carter–this.
"There were a few men who my daddy got his heroin from and..." She pauses, preparing herself. "I thought if I could strike a deal with them they would stop supplying him and he'd get better. But they took more than the money I brought..."
Beth is still as a stone as she processes her words. Lila's throat feels like sandpaper, but she keeps talking despite it. "They used me and still didn't stop. I'm lucky they thought my dad was pimping me out so they used condoms. And it only happened once." I think... her mind tacks on.
"Let's kill them," Beth states.
"Huh?"
"You heard me. Let's kill those evil motherfuckers."
Lila laughs, but the laugh quickly dies when she realizes Beth isn't joking.
"Wait, you're serious?"
"Fuck yeah I am. Do you know where they are?"
"I think I remember where dad picked up his stuff."
"Then I'm telling Rip and we're going." Beth starts to leave the room, and Lila jumps off the bed.
"Wait!"
Beth turns around. "For what?"
"I want to be the one to tell Rip. Please."
"Oh." Beth's expression shows she hadn't considered that.
"Please?"
"Well, alright. But I have some stuff in motion that I can't stop, Lila. So if you don't tell him now, I might not be able to help."
"Wait, what do you have in motion?" Lila asks.
Beth puts her hand on her hip as she considers how to best paraphrase what she's been up to.
"I've been searching for the man who tried to kill our family. I found him, and I'm going to kill him."
"Tonight?"
"I have a date set up for two days from now." Beth steps toward Lila. "If something happens to me, I need you to keep Rip calm, OK? He's not got any documents so if he gets in trouble with the law he's going away no matter what it's for."
"Seriously?"
"Uh huh. Counting on you to keep him level, Lila. I'll be alright no matter what happens, he has needs to give me time."
Lila looks nervous. "I don't know how I'm supposed to stop him, Beth. He's like three hundred pounds of muscle."
Beth sighs dreamily. "I know right? But hey, you'll figure it out. Now be sure to tell him soon so we can send those motherfuckers to hell. Should I send him to your room?"
Lila nods. "I guess now is better than having to work up the nerve twice, right?"
"Attagirl," Beth says, smiling. "I'll send him over."
Chapter 18: Chapter 18
Summary:
Rip hears the news
Chapter Text
Rip's fists are clenched so tightly his knuckles are white.
"Where are they, Lila?"
Lila stays quiet from her spot on the end of the bed. Rip's eyes lock onto hers. The hatred in them is palpable.
"Tell me."
"Beth said if you get in trouble, you'll go away, no matter what it's for." Her voice quiets. "I don't want you to go."
His eyes soften, and he approaches her, putting his finger under her chin and lifting her head. "I swear to you, I won't go away. Plenty of ways to kill a man and not be found out."
"So romantic," Lila says, but is caught off-guard when Rip leans down and meets her lips with his.
When he breaks the kiss, he keeps his face close.
"Listen to me, Lila. No one will ever hurt you again. Understand me?"
Lila's blue eyes meet his. She sees nothing but devotion to his word. Devotion to his word... And her.
She nods almost imperceptibly before throwing her arms around his neck.
"Thank you, Rip."
"It's the right thing to do," Rip says, rubbing her back before taking her shoulders and holding her out from his chest.
"Now please, tell me where these motherfuckers are."
"You know the trailer park outside the reservation, the one beside the deserted gas station?"
Rip nods.
"They deal out of a white van. They park around that area."
"Alright, I'll see what I can find out about it. Thank you, Lila."
"I can go with you and show you where?"
Rip frowns. "I don't want you in danger."
"What are a couple of heroin junkies going to do when I have you to protect me?" Lila says.
Rip looks at her for a moment. His jaw flexes as he considers something, then gives her a small nod. "But you stay in the truck. Deal?"
She smiles. "Deal."
-
Lila sits across from Rip, watching as he drives the big black Yellowstone truck toward where her dad got his fix.
"What's the plan, baby?" Beth says from the back seat, a rifle in her lap and pistols in her hands.
"Don't know yet. It'll come to me."
Lila points toward the trailer park. "It's that one. We shouldn't drive the truck in, though. It's too nice for the area and they'll be suspicious."
"Good thinking, girly," Beth says, stashing the pistol in her purse. She thinks, then passes the purse to Lila.
"You keep this on you, alright? I'll keep this one on me. Rip, you gonna use the rifle?"
"I'll keep it, yeah."
They park the truck at the back of the gas station, Rip throws the rifle over his shoulder, and they hop out.
"Lila, you said you'd sit in the truck."
"How are you gonna know you have the right guys if I don't see them?"
"She has a point, Rip."
Rip huffs. "Fine. But you stay next to me."
Lila nods. "I can do that."
The three of them head toward the trailer park. After the second row of trailers, Lila sees the white van.
"Right there," she says, pulling on Rip's jacket and pointing toward the van.
"Are they in it, babe?" Beth says, trailing the side of her dress up her hip, exposing a small snub-nose pistol she has holstered for a split second.
Rip squints as he looks in the van. "One guy in front." As he speaks, a second man walks around the back of the van.
"You recognize them?" Rip asks, surveying the area.
Lila's pulse thrums in her neck, sweat beading on her forehead.
"Look at her, Rip. That's them," Beth says matter-of-factly.
Lila clears her throat, trying to gather the courage to speak. "That's two of them. There was a third."
"Maybe he's in the back?"
"Lila, get back to the truck. Here." Rip hands her the keys.
"I don't have a licence," she says.
"Do you know how to drive?"
She nods. "I know enough to not crash, probably."
"Good enough. You get back, sit in the driver's seat, lock the doors, and start the truck. Keep the pistol in your lap. Understand me?" Rip says, his tone more serious than Lila had ever heard.
"Yes, sir," Lila responds, recalling the title he'd asked her to use when they first arrived.
"Good girl. We won't be long," Rip says.
While Lila heads back to the truck, Rip and Beth come up with a strategy.
"You keep that pistol cocked, alright?" Rip says as he gets into position, out of sight of the van. The two men are sitting in the front seat talking to each other, not paying attention.
"Don't worry about me babe, I got this," Beth says, unbuttoning the front of her dress, her cleavage prominent.
"Can't believe I'm letting you do this," Rip grumbles.
"No one else is going to be able to convince them but me, Rip." When she says his name, she tears a gash in her dress right across her stomach. As a final touch, she picks up dirt and rubs some on her outfit and face.
"How do I look?" She asks, spinning on her heel.
"Like a mess, honey."
"Perfect." She stands on her toes and kisses his cheek. "Here goes nothing."
Beth staggers into view of the van.
"Help!" She cries, tripping over herself as she desperately approaches the van. One man notices her and nudges his friend. They both turn their attention to the frantic redhead as she reaches the passenger side window.
"Please," Beth begs, "you have to help me!"
The guy in the passenger seat rolls his window down. The smell of sour milk wafts out as the bald man peers at her with coal-black eyes.
"What happened to you?"
"My car crashed about a mile into the reservation. I was stupid, off-roading for fun and my little sister is trapped inside still! Please help us, I'll do anything!"
The driver leans forward, his ratty brown hair obscuring half his face. "Anything?"
Beth nods frantically. "Anything, just please help her!"
The men look at each other, then back at Beth. One gestures to the back of the van and the other shakes their head.
"We can't drive you cause," the passenger says before the driver elbows him, "cause we can't, but we'll walk you there."
"Whatever, just come!" Beth says, nodding before turning toward the reservation and taking off. The two men glance at each other before they leave the van and follow her. Rip lets them get a reasonable distance before following, keeping to cover as much as possible.
Beth leads the men into the reservation, and cover becomes much more sparse. Thankfully, the heroin dealers are less than observant people.
"When the hell are we getting there?" The bald dealer asks.
"Just a little further," Beth says as they pass by one of the few trees this far out.
"Nah, I think we're done here. Your sister's fucked," the ratty haired man says, grabbing Beth's arm. "And you're fucked too, lady."
Beth tears her arm from their grasp and screams. The moment she does, she throws herself into the dirt and a gunshot rings out. The bald man crumples to the ground, clutching at his chest. Beth unholsters her pistol, rolls over, and fires six shots at the other man's face and chest. He quickly becomes unrecognizable from the blood spurting from his wounds.
The bald man is still alive, so Beth crawls over to him and grabs his shirt.
"Where is the other one of you fucks?" She demands of the dying man. He coughs up blood, shaking his head.
"Tell me or I'll shoot your fucking dick off. You may die, but you'll feel that shit before you do."
"Gas... Station..."
"What?!"
The man grins, his teeth red.
And Beth shoots him in the dick.
He howls in pain as Rip reaches Beth.
"Are you OK, baby? What did he say?"
"The third guy is at the fucking gas station."
Blood drains from Rip's face, and the pair takes off back the way they came.
Chapter 19: Chapter 19
Summary:
Lila shares a secret
Chapter Text
Lila heads toward the truck, bouncing the keys in her hand nervously, her mind racing. Are Rip and Beth going to be OK? This was her problem, not theirs. She should have let it go. Part of her–the selfish part, she thinks–daydreams of how relieved she'll be once the men who raped her are dead. Maybe she'll be able to be normal finally.
"Hey there pretty lady," a voice says from much too close. Lila whips around right into the arms of the third man who would've haunted her nightmares if she could dream.
He might have been attractive once: tall with blond hair, blue eyes, and a chiseled jaw; but years of drug abuse warped him into hideousness.
"Oh ho ho, what do we have here?" He squeezes her in his arms, restricting her ability to reach for the gun.
"Let go of me!" Lila screams, then feels a blade pushed up against her spine.
"If I cut you right here, you'll be paralyzed. Then you won't be able to feel me inside you again. You wouldn't want that, would you?" His breath stings her face, and his barely-there teeth have so many holes Lila swears she can hear him whistling when he speaks.
"I knew you'd come back wanting more eventually, Lola. Sorry to hear about your dad. He was one of our best customers." The man leads her toward the truck, pressing her back up against it and digging the knife deeper into her back.
Lila winces, and tears threaten to spill. She refuses to give him the satisfaction.
"Saw this fancy truck pull up. Had to check what was inside." He examines the driver-side door. "Ooh, the Yellowstone! You sucking Dutton cock now?"
"Eat shit," Lila spits.
"Mmm, you first," he says, then looks down at the girl writhing in his grasp. "You got the keys? Let me take that purse off your hands..."
He reaches for the purse, and Lila knees him in the balls when he grabs it. He hunches over, groaning, but keeps one hand on Lila. She stabs him in the arm with the truck keys, drawing blood and forcing him to let go.
"YOU FUCKING BITCH!" He howls, swiping in her direction. Lila runs to the truck, opens the door and slams it closed, locking it. With the keys and her purse now on or in the man outside the truck, Lila searches frantically for something to help.
Fortunately, her rapist is a lot meaner than he is smart and starts banging on the window, the truck keys still hanging from his arm. Maybe he doesn't realize they're there; as her dad got sicker, he stopped being conscious of when he was injured.
She pulls open the glove compartment and finds a black spray can. Desperately turning it over in her hands, she reads 'bear spray' on the label. Clutching the can like a bar of gold, she feels her breathing become erratic.
This isn't real. I'm not real. I'm not here. This isn't happening.
The banging on the window muffles. Time slows. The only thing Lila is aware of is the feel of the metal can she grips like a lifeline in her hands.
Then the banging stops. Lila's barely there consciousness draws her back in time for her to see the man rummaging in her purse.
He's going to find the gun. He's going to find it and kill me, she thinks, and is strangely OK with it.
He does find the gun. He taps the tip on the window, grinning a demon's smile.
"I'm gonna kill you, you used up whore," he says in a sing-song voice. "It would be a shame to not fuck you first, though, so I'll give you a choice."
Lila blinks slowly.
"Option one," he bangs the gun against the window, "you open the door, come with me and we relive old times. OR!" He pulls back the hammer on the gun and points it at the window, "I fucking kill you right now."
He giggles. "Still am probably gonna kill you later, too. But at least you'd die happy."
Lila stares at him, her gaze foggy, distant, and emotionless.
The man crinkles his nose. "You know, I forgot how lazy of a fuck you are. Just laid there and let it happen, didn't even fight back. You aren't worth the time, Lola. You're barely worth killing."
He points the barrel at her head and cackles.
"Still gonna do it, though! Bye-bye, Lola!"
THUMP
His head hits the window, eyes glazing over as his cheek slips down the glass before he collapses onto the ground.
The can of bear spray rolls out of her hands and onto the floor of the truck.
"Bye bye," she mumbles to herself, barely registering the two approaching figures.
"Lila!" Rip tears the keys from the junkie's arm and unlocks the door. He gathers Lila into his arms, squeezing her tight.
"Lila, are you OK? Are you hurt?" Beth asks, looking her over.
The question echoes in her empty head. From Rip's arms she looks down at her rapist, the handle of her knife sticking out of the back of his head like a skewer.
No, none of this is real.
"Lila, come back, baby girl. Baby, please," Rip says desperately, holding her close.
She doesn't respond.
Chapter 20: Chapter 20
Summary:
Lila's recovery.
Chapter Text
Sunlight filtering through her bedroom window wakes Lila from her exhausted slumber.
Oh fuck, I'm late for work again. Rip's gonna kill me.
Kill me.
Kill me?
She jolts up in the bed, looking around with confusion.
"Lila!" Rip says, rushing to her side from the bedside chair and taking one of her hands in his. "How are you feeling?"
"Exhausted," Lila yawns. "Why aren't you at work?"
"After yesterday, everyone needs a break. You especially."
Lila purses her lips. "Why?"
Rip's brow furrows. "Do you remember what we did?"
"Yeah, we moved in to this house. I chose this room since I wanted you to be able to visit without drawing suspicion."
"Alright, and then what?"
Lila rubs her eyes, yawning again. "Dunno."
Rip moves to the bed, sitting with her and looking into her eyes. "Honey, we killed three people yesterday."
"What?"
"We killed three men. Do you not remember?"
"This is a shitty joke, Rip," Lila says, getting angry.
"Lila, I'm not joking. Do I need to get you to a hospital?"
"No!" Lila exclaims, pushing his hand away and pulling her legs into her chest at the head of the bed. When she wraps her arms around her legs, she notices deep purple bruises on her arm. Her eyes widen in a panic.
It happened again. Now he knows. He won't want anything to do with me. I'm broken.
Lila sobs, rocking in place.
"Hon?" Rip says. She doesn't hear him.
"Lila?" He lightly touches her knee. When she doesn't pull away, he wraps an arm around her shoulders. She leans into him, shakes racking her body.
"Shhh, honey. It's going to be alright," he says, holding her close.
"It won't. I'm fucked and now you know it," she whispers from between her knees.
"Lila, we're all fucked. It ain't nothing new to me, baby girl." Rip gently strokes her hair.
"What happened? How did I get these bruises?" Lila asks, part of her afraid of the answer.
"I dont know. When we got back, this piece of shit was standing outside the truck with your gun in his hand, pointing it at you-"
"-then Rip launched your knife at the back of his head and killed the motherfucker on the spot," Beth finishes from the corner of the room.
How long had she been there? Had she always been there? Everything is so foggy, Lila thinks.
"Who did we kill?" Lila asks.
"Heroin dealers. A bald guy, a brown-haired guy, and a blond one," Beth says.
Recognition dawns on Lila's face. "Wait, I told you guys about them?"
"You did. And we didn't let those fuckers live to see another fucking sunrise," Beth says.
"I'm sorry I sent you back to the truck, Lila. It was supposed to be safe. I should have never let you out of my sight," Rip laments, dipping his head.
"You fucked blondie up, Lila. The truck keys were jammed so far they lodged into bone," Beth says.
"I fucked him up?" Lila asks, cracking a smile.
"You did. I'm proud of you," Beth says.
"Me too, baby. You held your own, though you shouldn't have had to," Rip says. "But I have to ask, is memory loss a new thing? Because if it is, we really need to get you to the hospital. I don't know if he gave you a concussion or something."
Lila grimaces. "Carter tells me I do things I can't remember doing. I don't know how long it's been this way. But no, it isn't new."
"Do you know why it happens?" Rip asks. "Is there some way I can help?"
"Sounds like disassociation, baby," Beth says to Rip, then turns to Lila.
"Sometimes when people go through traumatic things, their mind separates from their body to keep them safe. Does that sound like what might be happening?"
Lila nods. "I can't remember much about growing up, but the things I can remember–I wish I'd forget all of them," she pauses. "Well, almost all."
She looks to Rip. "I don't think anything can be done. I try to stop it when it happens, but it's like trying to stop a bullet with a piece of paper."
"You know when it's happening?" Rip asks.
"Yeah." Lila nods. "Stuff feels unreal. Like I'm not really here, I'm somewhere else. Ive only stopped it a few times though."
"Do you think," Rip leans in, "that you could tell me if it's starting so I can try to help you?"
Lila bites her lower lip. "I can try."
"I don't expect you to be perfect, Lila. I only expect that you try," Rip says seriously. "Promise?"
She smiles sadly, then nods. "Promise."
"Are you feeling well enough to get up?" Beth asks.
"Oh yeah, I feel fine," Lila says.
"Good, then come with us," Beth says, leading the way out of her bedroom.
Lila and Rip follow close behind until they reach the dining room.
A massive stack of strawberry pancakes sits in the middle of the elegant table with two spray cans of whipped cream. Carter is waiting, fork in hand.
"Took you long enough!" Carter says.
"Happy birthday, Lila," Rip says with a smile.
"What? How did you know?" Lila asks, her eyes wide.
"You told me you were a week from seventeen when I asked your age on the night we went out together," Beth says.
"And Carter said strawberry pancakes are your favorite," Rip adds.
"They are," Lila says, grinning. "I haven't had a birthday in forever."
"This is just the start," Rip says. "Got a whole day planned for you."
"Huh?" Lila says, looking up at him as he wraps an arm around her shoulder.
"Eat up, got a gift for you when you finish," he says, squeezing her.
"Thank you," she whispers. "Thank you."
Chapter 21: Chapter 21
Summary:
Lila gets an incredible gift...
Chapter Text
After Lila finishes a fat stack of pancakes, she dons her favorite cowgirl outfit along with the hat Rip had gotten her and meets Rip by the door. He takes her out to the barn with Carter and Beth.
"Wait here baby girl," Rip whispers in her ear before heading into the barn.
A few minutes later he emerges with John Dutton. A pale gray horse with a black mask marking follows behind them.
"No way," both Lila and Carter say at the same time.
Rip leads the horse to Lila, handing her the reins. "Maybe I jumped the gun a bit, but I was really impressed with how you got Miss Maddie to stop. When I told Beth she told Mr. Dutton and well-"
"I suggested we get you a show horse prospect," John interjects. "I want the Yellowstone to be the biggest name in show horses, but these horses need riders. This boy is yours, if you want him."
"No freaking way," Lila says.
"Only caviat is that if you are as good as Rip says you are, you'll ride for the Yellowstone. Sound good?" John says.
"Yes, sir. Thank you, sir."
"Ah," John waves his hand dismissively, "You'll be helping me out. I'll have my son teach you the ropes of training a horse, and Travis will give you pointers on how to do long stops."
"What kind of horse is he? What's his name?" Lila asks.
"He's an Andalusian. Since he's a show horse he'll need a unique name, but if you're up to it you can name him yourself," John says.
Lila squeaks happily and hugs John. "Thank you sir." She then hugs Beth, and finally Rip.
"I'll take great care of him, I promise!" She says to everyone.
"Can I ride him too, Lila?" Carter asks.
"Boy, she hasn't had the horse longer than a minute and you're already-" Rip starts, but Lila interjects.
"It's OK, I don't mind if Carter wants to ride him," Lila says.
"Thanks Lila," Carter says, beaming.
"Well, you wanna take him for a spin?" Rip asks.
"Is that even a question? Yes!"
Rip laughs, then helps Lila onto the horse, who accepts her without a fuss.
"He likes you already," John remarks.
"Of course he does, does he look like a dumbass?" Beth interjects.
"Beth..." John sighs. "I have work to do. I'll see you all for dinner tonight."
"Mr. Dutton, you don't-"
"Lila, I won't hear it. It's your birthday, for Pete's sake. Now, go have fun."
Lila submits with a "Thank you, sir," which John huffs an acknowledgement to before heading back toward the house.
"Carter and I have some work to do. Rip, will you keep your eye on her?"
"Yes ma'am."
"Good, come on then Carter." Beth grabs his arm, which he tries to pull away.
"I wanna go with Lila and Rip!"
"Is it your birthday too?" Beth asks.
"No..."
"Then you're coming with me."
"Lila, can I come with you?" Carter pleads.
"Carter, I-"
"Boy, don't make Beth tell you again," Rip threatens. Carter pales and allows himself to be pulled away.
"Let me go get saddled up." Rip straightens his hat and heads for the barn.
Lila threads her fingers through her horse's pale mane, admiring the silky feel. "This horse has better hair than I do," she mumbles.
"He also gets about five hundred dollars worth of personal care every few weeks," Rip says, trotting over on his horse.
"I still can't believe he's mine."
"Believe it, Lila." Rip smiles, pulling the reins and guiding his horse shoulder to shoulder with hers. "Where do you want to go?"
Lila blushes a bit.
"Mind taking me back to the field of flowers?"
Rip smiles. "Of course, baby girl. Let's get going."
Rip turns his horse and Lila follows, her new horse responding easily to her instructions. They travel until the treeline appears in the distance. Rip and Lila glance at each other wordlessly, then take off for the trees.
Rip is in the lead for a few seconds before Lila surpasses him, sticking her tongue out as her horse flies past. Rip can't help but smile before snapping the reins, trying to drive his horse fast enough to catch up, but it's no use. Lila and her new horse skid to a stop before the trees, both of them looking pleased with themselves.
"Well look at you, birthday girl," Rip says proudly. "You n' that horse work together like nobodies business. What do you figure you've won?"
"We didn't place a bet, though."
"Fair's fair. We bet last time when I won, so you get something you want this time."
"You didn't just let me win cause it's my birthday, right?" Lila asks suspiciously.
"I never go easy on anyone, babe," Rip says with a wink, earning a second blush.
"Can I think about what I want for a bit?" Lila asks.
"Of course. Let's head on over to the flowers while you think." Rip ties the horses up and leads Lila through the bushes, holding foliage aside so she has an easier path.
They emerge into the meadow of colorful flowers, seemingly even more vibrant than the last time they were here. Lila rushes to the stream and removes her shoes, dipping her feet into the shallow water.
"It's a little cold," Lila says to Rip, who makes his way down to the stream as she kicks a smooth rock through the crystal clear water.
"That stream comes right from the mountains. 'Bout the most refreshing water you could ever drink."
"Take your shoes off," Lila says.
"What? Nah, I'm good."
"It's my birthday," Lila pouts. "Please?"
Rip sighs. "Alright, fine." He sits by the stream and removes his boots, setting them aside.
Lila stands over him, placing a hand on either shoulder. When he finishes stuffing his socks into his shoes he looks up at her.
"Now what would you like me to do?"
"Come walk through the stream with me." Lila holds her hand out and Rip takes it, keeping her hand in his as they enter the water. A cool breeze blows through the flowers, causing them to sway gently.
"Beautiful," Rip says.
"Yeah, these flowers are the prettiest I've ever seen."
"I ain't talking about the flowers." Rip stops in his tracks, forcing Lila to stop.
Lila turns to face Rip. He regards her with a gentleness he rarely has the courage to expose.
"Lila, when I wasn't sure if you would be OK I felt so worried. Not like how I would worry for a friend. Different."
"Different how?" Lila asks, taking a step closer, her heart racing.
"I think I slipped up and fell for you, little miss."
"What? You mean like-"
Rip takes a step toward her, wrapping an arm around her waist and tipping her hat back to see her better.
"That's exactly what I mean."
Lila presses her palms against his chest, feeling his heartbeat racing just as fast as hers under her fingertips.
"Then say it."
Rip takes a deep breath.
"I love you, Lila."
Tears well in Lila's eyes. "Really? Even though I'm broken?"
Rip gathers her into his arms, enveloping her in his massive embrace. "Baby girl, it ain't nothing we can't work through together. I'll always be there for you. I swear it."
Lila can't hold back any longer. She sobs, clutching his tan shirt.
"Baby, are you-"
Rip doesn't get the time to finish his sentence before Lila throws her arms around his neck and pulls him into a passionate kiss.
Chapter 22: *Chapter 22
Summary:
Lila gets what she wished for
Chapter Text
Lila's lips lock with Rip's, the tension in her body rising as her hunger for him grows. She moves her leg around his, feeling his hand instinctively grip her, and lets out a soft moan. With growing desperation, she deepens the kiss and reaches for the front of his pants, searching for his zipper. But he chuckles against her lips, and pulls back slightly while still keeping his firm hold on her leg. "Hey now," he says, "You're getting carried away, baby girl."
"So?" She says, groaning with frustration. "It's my birthday, don't I deserve it?"
"Something as meaningful as your first time shouldn't be a heat of the moment decision."
"It's not my first time. You know what they did to me," Lila scowls. "And I don't know a single person whose first time wasn't in the heat of the moment."
Rip chuckles at Lila's response. "You may have a point there, but you're mistaken about it not being your first time," he says, gripping her other thigh and lifting her up to wrap around his waist. As he presses her back against a nearby tree, he plants soft kisses along her neck, eliciting moans of pleasure from her. "What happened to you before was not making love. There's a world of difference between that and the first time you truly make love, and it should be special," he murmurs against her pulse.
Lila's voice trembles as she speaks, threading her fingers through his black curls while he continues to kiss her neck, sending shivers down her spine. "We're in a gorgeous field of flowers, it's my birthday, you just told me you loved me, and I have a million-dollar horse waiting for me at the treeline. I can't think of a more special day," she says, her eyes shining with emotion.
Rip pulls back slightly, his grip on her tightening with equal parts possession and protection. "I just don't want you to have any regrets," he murmurs, his soulful blue eyes betraying a hint of sadness.
Lila cups his cheeks in her hands, her heart overflowing with love for him. "My life was nothing but regrets until this moment," she confesses, her heart racing. "I love you too, and I want to know what it feels like to make love," she adds shyly, struggling to maintain eye contact as the intensity of her words buzzes through her. "Please?" Her final word is barely a whisper, but it carries a world of meaning.
Rip takes a deep breath, searching Lila's eyes for any sign of hesitancy and finding only yearning and trust. "If you're absolutely sure," he says, to which she practically groans her approval. Setting her down, he leans over and kisses her gently at first, then with more passion. His hands run from her hair to her shoulders, then down to her hips, where his fingers curl under her shirt and pull it over her head. Lila is wearing her favorite bra she stole with Beth, light purple with lace frills.
Rip steps back and drinks her in, admiring the contrast of her pale skin against the dark bark of the tree behind her. Her deep blue eyes framed by black hair lock onto his, and a shy smile touches her full pink lips.
"What?" she asks, sounding bashful, as a blush rises to her cheeks.
"You're so goddamn beautiful," Rip says, mostly to himself. Lila giggles, leaning against the tree bark and reveling in his attention. As her excitement grows to outweigh her nerves, she unbuttons her pants and allows them to fall to the forest floor. Her matching purple lace panties draw Rip's eyes, a shadow of lust flickering behind his gaze.
"You just gonna stand there or are you gonna come make out with me?" Lila playfully asks, placing her hands on her hips.
"Yes, ma'am," Rip responds in a low voice. He peels off his shirt, revealing his broad, muscular chest. Lila's breath hitches at the sight, her anticipation rising. Approaching her, he stands just inches away, his powerful hands engulfing her hips in his calloused grip. Rip leans in and kisses her softly, deepening it as their lips part. His tongue meets hers, and Lila's desire heightens as the taste of him overwhelms her senses. As he kisses her, one of Rip's hands ventures beneath the lace of her waistband, slowly circling her clit. Lila arches against him hungrily, letting out a moan.
"Oh fuck," Lila groans against Rip's lips as jolts of pleasure course through her body. He kisses down her neck, across her collarbone, taking each nipple into his mouth and rolling it with his tongue. Continuing lower, he stops at her panties, pulling them down with one hand and pressing his lips to her clit, using his other hand to dip his fingers inside her. Lila leans hard against the tree, her hands grasping his hair as he expertly pleasures her. Her soft pants grow louder as he finds her g-spot, curling his fingers upwards while he circles her clit with his tongue. It doesn't take much before Lila tightens around his fingers, squeezing her eyes shut and holding onto Rip for support as her knees tremble.
"Holy shit, you just made me cum," she pants, and feels the rumble of his laugh against her sensitive clit.
"You sure you don't want to stop here, Lila?" he says, looking up at her as his fingers slip slowly out of her.
Lila shakes her head vigorously, her breaths ragged as she looks down at him. "Don't you dare fucking stop, Rip. I need you," she says, her tone urgent.
He laughs again, then rises and unbuckles his belt. Rip pulls his pants down, and Lila's eyes glue to the trail of black hair leading downward, and she gasps as his cock is freed from his boxers and stands tall, just as large as Beth had made it out to be.
"Uhm, I-" she hesitates, blushing. "I don't know if I can fit that," she says, but the wetness between her thighs urges her to try.
"It's easier from behind," he says, his voice soft. "But I understand if it's too much."
Lila turns around to face the tree, her hands against the rough bark. "Well, we won't find out unless we try," she says, looking over her shoulder and wiggling her hips invitingly. Rip steps closer, tracing his hands down her back before gripping her hips. He positions his cock at her entrance, but rather than taking her he begins gently thrusting between her thighs. She moans at the sensation of his thickness slipping between her folds and rubbing her clit, her thighs becoming sticky with desire.
The sound of the babbling brook beside them, the gentle breeze rustling the trees, and the birds occasionally chirping intermixed with Lila's whimpers of pleasure may be the most beautiful combination of sounds that Rip has ever heard. He leans down, kissing her neck before whispering, "Are you ready, Lila?"
Lila nods, biting her lip. Her breath is short from how close he'd brought her just from teasing her, and now, feeling the head of his cock pressing into her makes her knees weak. She gasps as he slowly pushes into her, one hand on her butt holding her open and the other moving to unclasp her bra. Once undone, her bra slips down her arms and she allows it to fall to the forest floor, forgotten. Rip takes her breast into his large hand, encompassing it entirely. Her nipple hardens at his touch, and she moans with pleasure as he kisses her shoulder, his beard sending small jolts through her.
Rip moves inch by inch, allowing time to adjust when he meets resistance. It has been years since he felt anything so tight, and he has to take a deep breath as her walls throb around him, trying to accommodate his size.
"Are you okay, baby girl?" he asks in a low tone.
"Mmhmmmm," she responds, the end of her affirmation trailing into a moan as Rip pushes even deeper. She leans heavily against the tree, her eyes fluttering shut at the sensation of being filled so completely. She feels her body conforming to his, stretching wide.
But even that sensation doesn't compare to when he begins to move. He pulls out slowly, then pushes back in, hissing through his teeth as the head of his cock bottoms out deep inside her.
"Oh fuck," she gasps, twinges of pain mingling with far greater pleasure. "Is it all inside?"
Rip looks down, pulling her open. The sight of her lips distended around his thickness makes his stomach clench. "Mostly," he responds. Then, he pulls out some, watching as her pussy grips him greedily. "Fuck," he whispers, his voice strained.
"Yes please," she says, standing on her toes and leaning over further, angling herself to take him completely.
With her encouragement and the irresistible way she offers herself to him, Rip thrusts into her. Her breath catches and she trembles as he slowly works himself in and out, each thrust becoming smoother as her wetness coats him.
Lila's cheek presses against the tree, and Rip has to move his hand from her breast to her hips to keep her steady as she loses herself to the pleasure, bucking against him. The world falls away as Lila and Rip move together, their bodies pressed against each other, each movement causing a new wave of ecstasy to wash over her. The waves swell with intensity before crashing as Lila loses herself, pulsating around Rip, her tightness squeezing him out.
He waits, panting with exertion as she regains control of her shaky limbs, long ropes of her clear cum coating her inner thighs. Slowly, she turns to face him, one of her cheeks red from being rubbed against the coarse tree bark, a blissful grin lighting up her face as she reaches out to him with both hands. Rip obliges, pulling her close and kissing her deeply. Both of her hands move to grip his hard cock, and she pumps him, reveling in the soft glide of his skin over his powerful length.
As they break away for air, she places one hand on his chest, pushing him back toward the flat slab of rock by the stream. "Go sit down, it's my turn," she says coquettishly. Rip obeys, backing up until they reach the large cool slab by the water, where he sits. Lila climbs between his legs, taking the head of his cock between her lips and smiling up at him before bobbing her head down, sucking him into her inviting mouth. Rip groans, gripping her hair in one hand and helping to hold it away from her face as she felates him, making muffled choking sounds when she pushes herself as far down as she can. With one hand holding herself over him, she uses the other to stroke his cock from the base to her lips, reveling in the way he twitches with desire and the groans slipping from his lips. The taste of her cum on his musky cock is exhilarating.
When she has him nice and slick, she climbs up, straddling his hips and hovering over him while pushing his back to the stone beneath them. Rip smiles warmly, placing his hands on her hips, a light sheen of sweat over his brow from his efforts to please her. Lila leans forward with both hands still on his hard chest, kissing him as she slowly lowers herself, feeling her body ache as it surrounds his girth.
Rip had been right. This experience is nothing like what she had gone through with those heroin addicts. They had been selfish, causing her nothing but pain and tears. But with Rip, it's different. He is completely focused on her pleasure, and despite the size of his cock, he makes it more pleasurable than painful. As she grinds against him, taking his impressive size with ease, she can't help but marvel at how good it feels. Rip gives her control, allowing her to set the pace, and Lila revels in the delightful sensations coursing through her body. The pain of before is replaced by a sweet ache that only serves to heighten her pleasure.
The feeling of his large hands wrapping around her waist, his tongue exploring her mouth as she finds the perfect rhythm to hit her sweet spot is unlike anything she'd dreamed of. It doesn't take long before she moans into his mouth, coming undone around him, her position preventing even her powerful orgasm from forcing him out. Rip groans as well, his cock enduring every pulse of her walls against him.
"Lila, I'm going to cum," Rip says his voice strained.
"Then do," she says, her breathing short and labored. Lila's skin positively radiates heat, and she continues to throb from the inside as if attempting to persuade him to fill her.
Rip takes control, his fingers digging into her hips as he thrusts up into her with such force Lila arches her back, screaming a string of profanities that makes the birds fall silent. He continues, harder and faster, his head falling back as he lets loose a gutteral moan, pulling Lila off him a moment before he cums, turning his hips so that it shoots out an impressive distance onto the rock beside them. Lila trembles, her pelvis still held aloft in his hands, her aching slit inches from his softening cock.
"Oh my goddd," Lila groans, collapsing onto the rock beside Rip. "I thought you were going to come inside me."
Rip wraps his arm around her and says, trying to catch his breath, "Lila, one of us has to be responsible. As much as I would have loved to, you still need time to think about what you really want."
Sitting up slightly, Lila asks, "How much time?"
Breathily laughing and laying his free arm against the cool rock, Rip replies, "I don't know, baby girl."
Despite a small whine of protest, Lila is too satiated to complain much. They lie there with their eyes closed for a while. Lila wonders if the gentle breaths from Rip are because he's fallen asleep, but when she opens her eyes, she sees that he's gazing up at the darkening sky. When he notices her peeking at him, he smiles and pulls her closer.
In a low voice, he says, "We need to get home, Mr. Dutton wants you to have dinner with the family."
"I don't want to go anywhere but here, ever," Lila sighs, running her hand over his chest.
Rip chuckles and stands up, leaving Lila to lie spread eagle over the rock. He stretches before heading over to the tree and retrieving his discarded clothing, brushing off dirt before pulling them on. "Come on, Lila," he says, handing her her clothes. She huffs but sits up and gets dressed.
When she stands, Rip pulls her to his chest and looks down at her with affection. "Happy birthday, baby girl," he says, kissing her forehead. Lila leans into his embrace, feeling contentment wash over her.
"It was the best birthday ever," she whispers, kissing him with a smile.
Chapter 23: Chapter 23
Summary:
Lila's birthday dinner at the Duttons is underway
Chapter Text
As twilight paints the sky with deep indigo hues, Lila and Rip arrive back at the ranch. Their journey has been punctuated by the fading light, casting long shadows across the familiar landscape. They reach the horse stalls, where Rip smoothly dismounts from his horse and then extends a helping hand to Lila, guiding her down from the saddle.
A gentle smile graces Lila's lips as Rip's touch lingers. His eyes narrow as he delicately examines her. With a thumb and forefinger, he turns her chin slightly, inspecting the scrapes on her cheek.
"Scuff marks," Rip observes, his thumb tracing the scrapes with care. "Someone's bound to notice."
Lila reaches out to pat her new horse's flank. "We could say I fell off the horse," she suggests.
Rip shakes his head, his expression turning serious. "I can't let Mr. Dutton think you can't handle your horse. We need a better story."
Lila's brows furrow. "How about this? We were in the woods, and I tripped over a root?"
Rip's disapproval remains, etched on his rugged features. "It sounds better, but I still don't like the thought of you falling without me catching you."
"You can't always be there to catch me," Lila says, her hands gripping his jacket lapel, feeling the soft leather between her fingers. "But I appreciate that you want to be."
Rip's dark blue eyes lock onto hers. "Of course I do."
A flutter dances in her heart, and a rush of warmth surges through her veins. Lila uses the lapels of his jacket to draw him in, sealing their bond with a lingering kiss. She revels in the fact that he doesn't pull away but instead deepens the kiss, allowing his hands to drop to her waist.
The tranquility of the moment is punctuated by a huff from Lila's horse, drawing Rip's attention. He breaks the kiss, his voice a low murmur against her lips. "We should head inside before anyone starts to wonder."
Lila's breathless response carries a trace of defiance. "Does it really matter if they do?"
Rip chuckles, the sound deep and comforting. "While you, me, and Beth understand, not everyone else might. Let's keep this quiet, at least until everyone's used to you and Carter."
"That sounds like it could take a long time."
A soft assurance gleams in Rip's eyes. "It won't be forever." His hands on her hips draw her closer, and he leans down to meet her gaze. "And as long as you want me, I'm here. That's a promise."
Lila's smile breaks through, but Rip's mention of her brother weaves through her mind, distracting her from fully enjoying his words.
"And Carter?" Her voice wavers. "Do I need to keep this from him too?"
Rip exhales slowly, wrestling with his response. "That's up to you. Just think it through."
Lila nods. "Yes, sir."
A flicker of something passes behind Rip's gaze, but he surpresses it and places his hand on the small of Lila's back, leading her out of the horse stall and latching it behind them.
They approach the front door and Rip knocks. Beth comes to the door, and a smile plasters across her face as she leans against the doorframe and takes in the pair.
"You two have fun?" She asks, her tone laden with innuendo. Heat rises on both Lila and Rip's faces and Beth cackles before gesturing for them to come inside.
"Dad mentioned your birthday dinner will be ready soon. Let's head to the dining room," Beth says, leading the way as they step into the warmth of the house.
As Lila, Beth, and Rip enter the dining room, a gasp escapes Lila's lips. The room is adorned with celebratory decorations in hues of purple, gold, and silver. Streamers dance in the soft glow of chandeliers, casting a warm, golden embrace. The wooden dining table stands resplendent with food, dressed in a luxurious purple tablecloth, with silver place settings, and crowned by a centerpiece of fresh flowers in delicate lavender and ivory.
Around the table, family members and familiar farm hands gather, laughter and camaraderie echoing through the room. John Dutton rises with a welcoming smile, and everyone quiets to listen.
"Carter informed me that you haven't had a proper birthday in years," John's voice resonates, filling the room. "So we decided to remedy that. Happy birthday, Lila."
Overwhelmed by emotion, Lila's gaze sweeps across the room, gratitude swelling within her. Carter, beside her, smiles most brightly of all.
"Thank you, Carter," Lila says as tears of joy threaten to spill.
"It's nothing," he says, though she can tell he's genuinely pleased.
"And thank you, Mr. Dutton," she adds.
"Consider it a welcome to the family," John replies with a warm smile. "We take care of our own here, and it's high time we celebrate you properly. Enjoy the evening, Lila. You've earned it."
The room fills with cheers and clinking glasses as the celebration continues. Beth pulls Lila into a hug, whispering, "You're one of us now, whether you like it or not." Lila laughs, feeling a deep sense of belonging that she never thought possible.
As the birthday celebration continues, Lila finds herself stealing glances at Rip, who sits beside her. His steady presence is a reminder of the promise he had made earlier, and the unspoken connection they share adds a layer of comfort to the evening. She's thankful for the warmth that has started to replace the loneliness she had carried for so long.
At one point, Carter asks about the scuff marks on Lila's cheek, and readily accepts her excuse. She starts to feel like she might make it through the night without having to address what she and Rip got up to, but Beth can't help herself.
"So Lila," Beth starts, looking nonchalant, "how was it riding him?"
Lila feels her cheeks flush as she exchanges a knowing glance with Rip before she realizes Beth could be talking about her new horse. She isn't, but she could be. She let's out a laugh. "Oh, um, he's a wonderful ride," Lila replies, offering Beth a smile. "Strong and spirited, just the way I like it."
"Oh yeah? You'll have to let me take him for a spin sometime," Beth responds, grinning cheekily.
"Any time. It's because of you and Rip that I even have him in the first place," Lila says, daring to match her mischevious look.
Beth raises an eyebrow playfully, but–either to let Lila off the hook or because of Rip's death-glare–she lets the matter drop. The evening unfolds, filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and the warmth of newfound camaraderie.
As Lila's birthday dinner draws to a close, Mr. Dutton takes the last of the guests to the front door, leaving Lila alone with Rip.
Rip takes her hand and brings her to the side of the room, and continues to hold her hand gently as he speaks. "This ain't much, but I wanted to give you something. Not from everyone, but from me."
He reaches into his jean pocket and pulls out something. He uses his hand on hers to turn her palm upward, then places a small bundle onto it.
Lila looks down curiously into her hand, finding a corded leather bracelet. She beams up at Rip, then lifts it into the air, spotting a beautiful silver horse charm reared up on it's hind legs, it's mane blowing out behind it.
"It's beautiful, Rip," she says sincerely, turning the charm carefully between her fingers before handing him the bracelet and holding out her arm. Rip ties it for her, a small smile on his lips as his fingers linger on the inside of her delicate wrist. "Thank you," Lila whispers, her mouth going dry as his soft yet intensely protective gaze meets hers.
"Thank you too, Lila," he responds, placing a kiss on her forehead that makes her heart race.
Beth then saunters into the room, grinning like a jackal. "You two are the cutest," she says, moving to wrap her arm around Rip's waist. "You ready for the after party, Lila?"
"There's an after party?" Lila asks.
Beth bites her lip and nods with glee. "The bunkhouse is throwing a shindig for you." She leans in closer. "Don't tell my dad. So you wanna go?"
Lila looks from Beth's gleeful expression to Rip's one of hesitant nerves and nods as Beth's enthusiasm begins to seep in.
"Yeah, let's do it," she agrees.