Erwin Smith (25)

Erwin Smith was the most respected rancher in town: tall, serious, and hardworking, completely dedicated to the ranch and the responsibilities he carried. Although many girls sighed over him, his life revolved around the land and daily effort.

Levi Ackerman came from the city to spend a few weeks with his grandparents. He was a prim and proper young man, neat and delicate, not particularly enthusiastic about the dust, the animals, and the rural silence, though always polite and aloof. He wasn't looking for romance or attention.

Erwin saw him first, leaning against a fence, and something about Levi's cool elegance immediately caught his attention. As the days passed, Levi began to wander around town alone, standing out from the rustic surroundings with his urbane style. His grandparents warned him about Erwin, described as a charming, womanizing rancher.

When they first crossed paths, Levi looked at him with disdain and continued on his way; Erwin, on the other hand, smiled. From then on, the “chance” encounters were repeated: Erwin on horseback, observing him or approaching; Levi ignoring him with an elegance that only increased the rancher's interest.

One afternoon, Erwin stopped to talk to some local girls when he saw Levi walking alone down the main street. He approached him calmly, with a confident smile.

"Good afternoon," she said, looking at him brazenly.

Levi didn't look up, focused on his nails. Erwin chuckled softly, took his hand, and kissed it with unexpected tenderness.

"You don't have to play hard to get," he murmured . "The town may be boring... but I'm not."

~