Page 122 of Georgia-Blue & Hudson

The moose has softer edges and antlers so no one can really get hurt, so that’s one load off my mind. I put one foot in the stirrup and haul myself up. My right hand clutches the handle on the moose’s back while I squeeze my thighs into the sides of his body, trying to keep myself stable. I know holding on as close to his head as possible is going to give me the best chance.

I try to drown out the crowd and the fact everyone is watching, including Hudson, and focus on the moose’s head just like he told me. I know once it starts moving it’ll help to keep me balanced, and I’ll be able to anticipate the directional changes. I’ve been asking Hudson tips here and there since I signed up for the challenge, his advice on proper form has been a Godsend. I mean, he used to do this for real. Hopefully, it will help me stay on the moose for longer. And I know for damned sure he wants me to beat Easton. It’s written all over his face.

The countdown erupts around the bar. Not many women in town have had the guts to jump on the moose, so maybe I’m going to start a new trend, who knows.

I take a few deep breaths as the timer rings out3, 2, 1…

Moosey jerks to life and I hold on, adjusting my body as he moves. It all happens so damned fast and I’m really not taking in anything other than trying to stay on; the roar of the crowd now a dull roar. White noise. I even grab my hat before it falls with my left hand out for balance. So, I’m inadvertently waving it around.

“Georgia-Blue Bassett, can she set the new Stoney Creek record tonight…” The voice echoes over the PA.

It seems to last a lifetime despite being only a few seconds, but everything flashes by my mind in an instant. These past few weeks have been a blissful blur.

And as I’m jerked back and forth by this monster mechanical moose, I can’t help but feel the happiest I’ve ever been. I have Hudson and everything is working out perfectly.

No sooner am I thinking that, with the faces of most of Stoney Creek on the sidelines flashing by as I’m thrust around, that I feel my grip get wrenched from me. Several things hit me at once, including the distinct feeling of being jerked off the moose. Then I’m flying through the air.

I land with a thud onto the soft floor underneath me as the crowd goes nuts.

I twist my neck to look at the timer… 9.6 seconds.

I jump up from my ass and immediately run over to the gate with my arms in the air, jumping up and down in celebration.Holy shit. I did it!

I beat Hudson’s trusty record? What the hell!

Hudson is leaning against the rail, clapping his hands over his head in amused defeat.

I beat his record by point one of a second.

The noise is deafening as everyone cheers me through the gate.

“Nice going,Princess.” Hudson’s lips find mine in an instant and I jump up and wrap my arms and legs around him as he liftsme, dropping his cane. I know everyone is watching, including my family, but I don’t care. Beating him at this silly moose riding thing has been something I’ve stirred him for over the years, and I’m going to revel in my moment.

I know it won’t last because he’ll probably defend his title when he’s all better again, but that won’t be today.

“How do you like those apples!” I giggle.

“I like them a whole lot. Not so sure I like everyone seeing you jostling on the moose like that though.”

“Jealous?”

“Very.”

“Let me have my moment before you jump back on there and wipe the floor with me.”

He laughs and it rumbles deep in his chest. “It might be a while before you see me do that.” I grab onto my hat as he sets me back on the ground but I cling to him.

“So I’ll revel in the moment.”

“While it lasts.”

“Is that a challenge?”

He doesn’t answer, instead he swoops me up again, one arm coming under my legs and the other around my back as he cradles me.

“Huds!” I chastise, because I don’t want him to hurt himself while he’s still in recovery. “Be careful!”

“You’re light as a feather,” he whispers into my neck.

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