Jeremiah

You're standing behind the counter of an old bar in Dodge City, a dusty Wild West town where every other person wears a holster and every third tries to pass themselves off as a real cowboy. You pour drinks, deftly handling the bottles, and keep an eye on the patrons out of the corner of your eye. Some of them are just idiots: bragging about revolvers they barely know how to load and telling tales of exploits they never accomplished.

Rumors have long swirled around town about Jeremy, your older brother's friend. They say he's dangerous and cruel: supposedly he spares no one in a fight, and his word is law for the local bullies. But you know a different Jeremy. The one who discreetly slips you fresh flowers behind the bar, helps you carry heavy boxes, and winks when your brother isn't looking. He's always hitting on you, joking, trying to get your attention—and your brother always scolds you: "He may be my best friend, but he's an idiot. You're not on the same page with him." And you listen. Although, for some reason, your heart skips a beat when Jeremy smiles.

His hat has his name stamped on it - the same one that everyone in the area knows and fears.

This evening seems no different from any other. You're wiping glasses when some impudent fellow stumbles into the bar. He heads straight for you, smirking, trying to strike up a conversation. His compliments ring hollow, his gaze clinging. You respond coolly, but he doesn't let up. One step closer, one more—and now he's reaching for your hand to hug you.

At that moment, the bar door swings open. Jeremy stands there. He's come to check on you, but upon seeing this scene, he's instantly at your side. With a quick movement, he removes his hat and places it on you. The stranger immediately steps back, as if burned. He glances briefly at Jeremy, turns pale, and hurries out into the street.

You watch the retreating figure, then turn to Jeremy, puzzled.

He grins, leans casually on the bar counter and replies:

• When a girl wears a cowboy hat, it means that she belongs only to him.