Page 9 of Ride Me

My hand finds her chin, just like it did the first time we met. Heat crackles in the air between us, charging the space. Then, slowly and deliberately, I tilt her face up and press my lips to hers.

Our mouths connect and even though it’s gentle, the whole world fades away around us.

My whole body reacts instantly. My muscles harden and ache with wanting. My dick springs to life aching for more friction as I part her lips and slip my tongue inside her mouth.

Her fingers skim up the back of my neck, and I bury mine in her hair, pulling her deeper into me. Electricity shoots through me. I press her back against my truck, losing myself in the moment.

When we finally break apart, I’m humming with energy. It’s a mix of lust and something deeper that I can’t put my finger on. But it’s all her.

Priya exhales a shaky breath. “Wow,” she murmurs. “I don’t think there’s a person alive who wouldn’t believe that.”

“See, I’m in love with you just like that. I love you.” The words slip out of my mouth so naturally I don’t even have time to stop them.

A split second of hesitation flashes on Priya’s face. So I follow my admission with an awkward laugh, not even sure I know where the line is between reality and fiction at this point.

“Yes, we nailed that kiss. Just for fun.” She bites her lower lip and it’s all I can do to stop myself from kissing her all overagain. Her mouth curves into a small, knowing smile. “Gunner isn’t gonna know what hit him.”

And I’m definitely gonna need a cold shower.

CHAPTER 7

PRIYA

We makeour way into the lobby of the Saddle Suites, hand in hand. Inside we find Bowen’s older brother, Alex, his girlfriend, Cassidy, and her young son, Connor, waiting for us.

Everything looks perfect for the VIPs tonight, the elegant setting, the excited buzz in the air, and even the illusion of my relationship with Bowen. On the surface, we’re the perfect couple. I have to keep reminding myself that it isn’t real because Bowen is impossibly charming.

Playing this game with him is like playing with fire. The spark between us is undeniable. I already know that when it inevitably ignites, I’ll be willing to risk everything I’ve built for him. That’s exactly how I got into this mess in the first place.

Still, being the woman in Bowen’s life, even if it’s all a charade, is intoxicating. I’ve never met anyone who makes me feel like every nerve in my body is awake for the first time.

“They’ve arrived. Everyone’s in a room now waiting on luggage delivery. We’re off to the races and right on schedule. Some of us are on schedule,” Alex says, his tone gruff as he levels a look at Bowen.

Cassidy rolls her eyes, her smile warm and forgiving. “We’re all here now,” she says lightly.

“We had things to do on our way in.” Bowen lifts my hand to his mouth and presses a slow, deliberate kiss to the back of it.

There’s nothing hesitant about the gesture. I’m not sure if it’s meant for me or if it’s a response to Alex. But I can feel my heart race and butterflies flap wildly in my stomach either way.

Nothing like jumping in with both feet.

Cassidy’s gaze flicks to our interlaced hands, and she bites back a smile of pure joy and approval. In contrast, Alex’s expression hardens as he narrows his eyes at his brother, a silent message passing between them.

Whatever it is, I can only assume those daggers are meant for Bowen and not me. I like Alex. He’s one of the more reasonable Kingridge brothers as far as I’m concerned.

As we settle in, Alex and Cassidy catch us up on the day’s activities. It’s a whirlwind of calf roping, a private trail ride, and an elegant five-star meal planned at The Velvet Spur. Jolts of electricity keep pulsing through me with Bowen’s every touch and he doesn’t stop touching me.

Not that I’m complaining. My only worry is the love hangover I’m going to feel when I return to reality after this night is over and Bowen goes back to treating me like a coworker.

“Are you two boyfriend and girlfriend?” Connor’s question cuts through the chatter, his wide eyes blinking up at us with the innocent curiosity only a child can muster.

“You better believe we are.” Bowen grins and winks at him, tightening his grip on my hand.

“So you like to kiss her?” Connor asks, his voice both curious and unfiltered.

Heat floods my cheeks, and I’m momentarily at a loss. Before I can fumble for a response, Cassidy steps in, gently guiding Connor away.

But not before Bowen’s deep, unhurried voice answers, “Oh yeah, I do.” He squeezes my hand again, and the warmth of his touch makes it hard to breathe.

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