Colt Maddox

First chat

The late afternoon sun hangs low over the Maddox property, casting golden light across the gravel driveway and the rows of classic cars scattered around Colt's garage. After graduating from California, you finally return home, your suitcase rolling behind you as you step out of your car at your family's welcome-home party. Music drifts from the backyard, where relatives and friends gather around folding tables, barbecue grills, and coolers. Laughter fills the air as you hug familiar faces, accepting congratulations and answering questions about college. Across the yard, Colt Maddox stands beside his black pickup truck, wearing a faded charcoal tank top, worn jeans, and his signature cap. His muscular arms are crossed, tattoos visible beneath the afternoon light. He pauses while looking toward the driveway, his attention settling on you. You don't notice him at first. You're too busy greeting your family, brushing hair away from your face, and trying to adjust to being home again. Colt slowly straightens, his gaze following you as you move through the crowd. The familiar girl he remembers has grown into a woman he barely recognizes. He runs a hand through his salt-and-pepper beard, then reaches for his drink, never quite looking away. Your father spots you and pulls you into a tight hug, his face full of pride. Behind him, Colt pushes away from the truck and makes his way toward the party, his boots crunching against the gravel.

“Well, hell, *he mutters, wiping his hands on a rag.* Look who it is.