Page 58 of Levi

“As a matter of fact, I am seeing someone,” she replied.

“I heard it was Levi Thomas.” Betty Lou raised her eyebrows mischievously.

Kinley blushed but couldn’t hide her excitement. “Yes, that’s correct.”

“He’s quite the handsome devil. You’re a lucky girl.” Betty Lou winked before heading out the door.

Kinley couldn’t help but laugh at the woman as she left. She knew Betty Lou drove Sam crazyat times being his assistant at the front desk, but she also knew he adored her. After all, she was his godmother, and she never missed an opportunity to tell everyone.

****

On Saturday afternoon, Levi trailed behind Cody as they drove toward Kalispell for the competition. Kinley sat next to him, her face beaming with excitement. They took separate vehicles in case either of them decided to leave earlier.

“I can’t wait to see this. I’ve never been into bull riding before, but I bet it’s incredible in person,” she exclaimed.

“Yeah, it really is. I’ve attended a few since working for him and it’s always a great time.”

“It was so kind of him to get us a room.”

“He didn’t have to do that. I’ll pay him back.”

Kinley chuckled. “You know he won’t accept the money.”

Levi shook his head. “Probably not, but I’ll still offer.”

“Addison said he knows the owner of the hotel and always stays there during competitions in Kalispell. Can you believe I’ve never been to Kalispell? I hear it’s absolutely stunning.”

“Isn’t all of Montana beautiful?”

“Very true.”

They stopped at a fast-food restaurant, ordered their food to go, and continued on their journey.

Levi’s stereo notified him of a text message just before they reached the exit for Kalispell. He glanced at the screen and then at Kinley.

“Aren’t you going to check what it says?” she asked, her tone indicating she wasn’t thrilled about seeing a message from Tara.

He shrugged and pressed the button for the screen to read the message aloud.

I’m in Clifton. How about lunch?

He chuckled and cleared his throat when Kinley glared at him.

“What? It looks like I won’t be meeting her for lunch after all.”

“So, you were planning to meet up with her?”

“Shit. Kinley, I just want to know what she’s up to. You have nothing to worry about when it comes to her. You should know that.”

Kinley huffed. “I do. I’m just curious too.”

He replied to the text through his stereo, letting her know he was in Kalispell.

When will you be back?she responded.

“Needy little thing, isn’t she?” Kinley commented.

He messaged her back saying he wasn’t sure. When he didn’t get a response, he glanced at Kinley.