Page 49 of Fall With Me (Sugarland Creek)

We end up talking about other random stuff for the remaining half hour, and by the time I have to leave, my heart is full. There’s always a sense of relief getting to see and talk to her in person.

“I love you. We’ll talk very soon, okay?” she says.

I nod repeatedly, attempting to keep my emotions in check. “Love you, too.”

Chapter Twelve

LANDEN

Mario’s being a little shit this morning. He’s one of our newer stallions and tends to rear when I lead him out to the pasture. Usually, I can redirect and settle him down, but he’s being extra feisty.

Pretty sure I’ll have a black eye tomorrow from his head lashing around and smacking into mine when I didn’t get out of his way fast enough. But since I’m leaving for the Franklin Rodeo in a few hours, he’ll be one of the other ranch hands’ problems. At least until I get back.

“Save that energy for the mares, bud.” I unclick the lead rope once he’s securely inside and then lock the gate behind me.

“Rough day?” Tripp rides up on Denver, one of our family horses, and smirks after I flip him my middle finger.

“Just another stud actin’ up as usual. What’re you doin’?”

“Dad asked me to move the goats to the east retreat pasture before we all head out, so I’m lookin’ for ’em.”

“You lost the goats?” I muse, crossing my arms and leaning against the fence.

“No. They’re…somewhere.”

I chuckle, pushing to my feet. “Good luck with that. I once found a few up in the hay loft.”

“Shit,” he mutters.

As I walk to the barn to grab the next mare for Mario, my phone vibrates with a text.

Cecilia

What’s a girl gotta do for a good night kiss around here?

I smile as soon as I read her text. After our back-to-back fair dates last weekend, I still hadn’t kissed her, and then we had an ice cream date last night. Since I worked late, I couldn’t hang out long, but when we went our separate ways, I hugged her goodbye and kissed her cheek.

We haven’t made any new plans since I’m leaving for the Franklin Rodeo this afternoon, but we’ve been texting every day since we met.

Landen

You ever heard of a Southern gentleman? I’m trying to be respectful and take things slow.

Although I love how blunt and forward she is, I’d rather not jump right into bed before getting to know each other better.

Something I’ve never considered before, but if I’m truly attempting tomove on, then I want to be sure there’s a real connection between us.

Cecilia

Afraid a little tongue will turn you into a sex addict?

If only she knew it’s beena longtime since I’ve been with someone.

Landen

Pretty sure you’re the one who won’t be able to keep your hands off me.

Cecilia

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