Page 8 of Rowdy St. Nick

“My name is Parker.”

“I know, you told me that, but I don’t see it. You’re so not a ‘Parker’.” She uses air quotes.

“And what should my name be then Miss Tess the Damsel who works at The Castle.”

She puts a finger to her chin to indicate some deep thinking, but it’s exaggerated, as are her squinting eyes. She’s having way too much fun with this.

“I got it! You’re totally a Rowdy.”

“Rowdy?!” No fucking way is that gonna be my nickname.

“So, Rowdy, does this thing go any faster?”

“You wanna see some speed? Hold on.”

She puts her arms around my waist and holds on tight. I signal Daisy to move into a canter, and Tess squeals as we start flying.

“Oh my god you do this every day?”

She has her head on my chest now and she’s holding onto me tighter.

“Just wait, the next part is going to blow your mind.”

I bring us into a full gallop and bask in that feeling like I’m flying. Tess lifts her head and turns to look in front of us.

“Whoa. Seriously, you do this every day?”

“Every chance I get!”

We’re almost to the dude ranch now, and I bring us back down to a trot, then a walk so Daisy can cool off as we end the ride.

“Tell me more about this special club. Why is it called ‘The Castle’?”

“I’m not sure, but I think it mostly has something to do with the dungeon-designed rooms in the lower level”

Now I’m really intrigued. “Excuse me.”

“There are special rooms for BDSM training for our elite subscribers.”

“And you’re a trainer.”

She smiles at me. “Yes, I am, and I work part time as a hostess.”

“So much for damsel in distress.”

“I was definitely in distress when you offered me a ride to this dude ranch place.”

“I imagine that’s not a regular occurrence for you though.”

“No, it’s not.”

I spread one hand out in a sweeping motion with my arm.

“We’re here, the Lone Star Dude Ranch.”

“Thanks. I seriously do appreciate the help. My brother said he’d send someone to get my car. This is a much better spot to wait for them than the highway.”

“I would've given you my phone to use, but I’m always forgetting the thing.”

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