Page 8 of Cowboys at Coconuts

“For what?”

“Battle.” Cheri flashed a knowing smile. He winked before turning back to the road. “Ready for battle, huh? With Jade? That’s my kind of girl.” Stammering, he said, “Not that you’re my girl or anything. We barely met. Darn it. You know what I mean.”

Relaxing, she said, “I can think of worse things than being your girl.”

It was nearly dark but she thought she noticed a pink hue creep up his neck. They listened in silence to “Shotgun Rider” by Tim McGraw. Cole hummed along.

“You have a nice voice.”

He gave her an ‘aw shucks’ look.

“All I’ve heard is country music since arriving today.”

“Is there another kind?” Cole laughed.

Giggling, she said, “New York City isn’t exactly the country music capital.”

“Nah, that would be Nashville or even Branson. Country music tells a story. That’s why I like it,” he said.

She listened to the words of the song. “You’re right. The song does tell a story.”

He laughed. “Usually about exes, dogs, drinkin’, and trucks.”

Studying her handsome driver, she asked, “Do you like being a cowboy?”

Cole placed his tan hat between the seats. “Do you assume I’m a cowboy because I wear a hat?”

“Don’t forget the boots and oval belt buckle,” Cheri said.

“You must be a detective.” He drove onto a tiny gravel driveway. “We’re here.”

Peeking out the window, she laughed. “More pickups.” Tensing as she heard the familiar roar of the motorcycle, she bristled as Jade parked next to them, did her sultry routine with the helmet, and tousled her hair as if she were in a commercial with a wind machine.

Cheri studied the tiny building made from what looked like aluminum on all sides, even the roof. The bar appeared to be about the size of two large RVs. A dark green awning welcomed them with faded letters declaring LEFTY’S except the “S” was missing. The minute they stepped inside, thick smoke enveloped her. Wrinkling her nose, Cheri waved her hands in front of her face. “I’m not used to this. They banned smoking in New York years ago.”

Cole waved his hat in the air to clear a path. “I hate it too. That’s one reason I don’t come here often. But the drinks are good, plus I enjoy pool and dancing.”

“Dancing?” Cheri brightened. “I’m intrigued. Let’s get a drink. I have a feeling I’m going to need it.”

“What do you like? Wine or a fancy drink?” Cole asked.

“Surprise me.” She set her purse down, glanced at the blue jean, boot-wearing patrons, and women in short skirts. Several men wore cowboy hats and everyone chatted excitedly, most while holding a beer. Cheri glanced up as Cole stepped toward her with a pink martini and a foamy beer.

“I figured a classy lady like you would like Cosmopolitans.” Cole held it toward her.

Cheri noticed Jade rolling her eyes. “I’ll take the beer.”

Chuckling, Cole said, “That was for me but you can have it.” He handed her both drinks. “Be right back with one more beer.”

Jade stared at Cheri. “Pink suits you.” As she strode past, she elbowed Cheri so hard some of the Budweiser spilled onto her expensive shoes. “Damn it. These are new.”

Jade grabbed the beer out of her hand. “So sorry. Thanks for this.” She raised her glass. “Here’s to the victor.”

Cheri cupped her hands around her mouth and shouted over the music. “Cole told me your name is Jade. Quaint.”

Jade spun around, took a step toward Cheri, and narrowed her eyes.

Cheri glared back, determined not to show weakness, even though her heart hammered.God. What a witch—and what a way to meet Cole and his friends. Or girlfriend. Whoever she is. I wish I had played pool more than a handful of times. Jade will probably defeat me in record time.

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