Love and Rescue at the Rialto: #4 (Where Sage Meets Sky Series)

The Rialto Theatre hummed with anticipation. Brynn's benefit concerts for Search and Rescue had become legendary in Bozeman, but this one felt special to Ash. She stood near the back of the historic venue, watching Sarah work the room in her dress uniform - all quiet confidence and grace as she spoke with supporters and fellow rescuers.

"Your girl cleans up nice," Mattie commented, appearing with cups of her special event coffee blend. "Though I bet you prefer her in rescue gear."

Ash couldn't argue. Sarah did look stunning in her formal uniform, but there was something about seeing her in full rescue mode that made her heart race. Still, watching her now, moving through the crowd with that same sure presence she brought to mountain emergencies...

"Earth to Ash," Mattie grinned. "She's heading this way."

Sarah approached through the crowd, and Ash's breath caught. Even after weeks of dating, moments like this still hit her hard - the way Sarah moved like she knew exactly where she was going, the subtle smile that was just for her.

"Hey beautiful," Sarah said softly, reaching for her hand. "Ready to hear some music?"

The lights dimmed as Brynn took the stage. Her first song was new - written specifically for Search and Rescue, about finding light in darkness and hope in storms. Sarah's hand tightened on Ash's as the lyrics spoke of midnight calls and mountain rescues.

"This is what it feels like," Sarah whispered in her ear. "When we're searching....