Page 115 of Headed for Home

She twists slightly to catch my stare. “Good thing I plan to keep you around.”

The twins start singing a familiar song and my ears strain on a certain word. “Is it just me or does it sound like they’re saying fucks?”

“Funny you should mention that.” Her hum matches the tune. “That’s how their version used to go.”

“No shit?”

“It was ‘ducking’ hilarious.” She nudges me. “Get it? I didn’t tell them but they figured it out on their own.”

“They’re such amazing kids.”

“Yeah, I got lucky.”

I grow bold, removing a hand from the saddle to grasp her hip. “Thanks for sharing this life with me.”

She nods, a grin curving her mouth. “I’ve made a decision. A few, actually.”

My patience waits for her to say more, but she dangles that tidbit like bait. “Okay, I’ll bite. Put me out of my misery and tell me, woman.”

Her laugh carries on the breeze. “First, how would you like to move in with us? Make Greener Pastures your home.”

I jolt and almost slide off Leita’s ass. “Fuck yes. I’m in. Where do I sign?”

Cassidy drops her head back against my shoulder and taps her lips. “Right here.”

I give her a fast peck but she isn’t satisfied, staying reclined against me. “Watch the road, beauty!”

Instead of listening, she releases the reins. “Oh, look. No hands.”

“You’re getting a spanking later,” I warn.

“Don’t threaten me with an orgasmic time,” she fires in return.

“About to call you trouble for a change.” The strain in my chest loosens when she reclaims the reins. “What else have you decided?”

“There’s a competition of sorts next weekend.” Her tone is nonchalant, but I can feel her squirm. “I’m thinking about entering.”

My grip on her tightens. “Really?”

Cassidy fidgets, her thoughts churning loudly. “Would you come with me?”

“Wild horses couldn’t keep me corralled.”

“That’s not quite right,” she giggles.

I scoff and take a risk, looping both arms around her waist. The tattoo on her forearm glows like a beacon. My thumb traces the new ink while unconditional love pumps into me. “Everything is the way it’s meant to be so long as we’re headed for home together.”

There’s a tightness in my chest that won’t quit throbbing. I rub at the ache, bumping over my necklace. My fingers tremble as I tug the pendant from under my shirt. The picture of Pago blurs as my eyes fill with tears. He’s with us. That knowledge allows me to breathe.

But then the next exhibitor is called and my pulse spikes. This has been a vicious cycle. At least my nerves aren’t bothering Leita. She’s calm beneath me while I continue to fret. Her chill disposition anchors me and my stiff posture sags with a thick exhale.

“Doing okay?” Drake’s hand rubs soothing circles into my thigh.

I rip my focus off the competition and concentrate on his concerned baby blues. “This is more stressful than I remember.”

“Is it because you’re running barrels on a baseball field? I gotta tell you, beauty.” His whistle is low and exaggerated. “This is a sight I never thought I’d ever see.”

“The arena is a bit unconventional,” I agree.

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