Page 21 of Buckled in Barbwire

We’ve been a team for six years, ever since I bought Ritzy as a yearling. She’s double registered as a paint and quarter horse, which allows me to compete in exclusivebreed shows. We usually win big at those events. The next one is in September and I anticipate earning a large check.

Approaching footsteps interrupt my quiet contemplation. A glance over my shoulder bursts the peaceful bubble entirely.

Brody is crossing the property grounds toward me. The cowboy king strides forward with purpose and I’m instantly struck by the raw energy he emits. Static sparks along my skin, raising goose bumps despite the heat. There’s no disguising my shiver as anything but anticipation.

His green stare narrows at me from the shadows under his hat. After several days of not seeing him, I’d been silly enough to think he found someone else to torment. Now I’m realizing that he’s been lying in wait until I started to relax.

Pebbles skitter from his path to avoid getting crushed under the incoming wrath. Can’t say I blame the tiny rocks for retreating but I thrust myself into the fray. After a farewell pat to my horse, I slip through the gate to confront him. My heartbeat trots faster as the distance separating us narrows to a few scarce feet.

The flutters in my belly are totally uncalled for. Brody’s extremely attractive appearance is a sneaky trick. That handsome shell won’t distract me from what’s lurking beneath the surface. This man is a condescending jerk who would gladly stomp on me if I melted into a puddle at his feet. I’ll never give him that opportunity. My spine steels as I prepare for our verbal spat.

“Howdy, Twinkles.” Brody’s deep timbre liquifies my knees.

I grasp onto the board behind me. “Boss.”

His tall frame towers over my short stature. My head is level with his chest, which always leaves me looking up at him. I’m sure he gets off on that. The urge to climb the fence and perch above him wiggles my hips. He’d probably push me down before my ass settled on the wood.

Brody hums and glances at the sky. “Nice day for a ride.” His bland comment gives me pause.

“Sure is,” I respond slowly.

“Mighty fine-looking animal.” He gives Ritzy a thorough inspection while she preens in the paddock. “Solid confirmation. Stocky build. Bold coat. How’s her disposition?”

I peer at him through a squint. This isn’t what I expected. Quite the opposite. Maybe I’ve unlocked an upgraded level to his game.

“Calm until we enter the alley,” I answer. “She’s bred to run and a natural at racing the barrels.”

“I saw that.”

My lips part when our gazes clash and hold. “You were watching?”

“Hard not to.” His admission spurs my pulse into a gallop.

“Are you feeling okay?”

“Why do you ask?”

“You’re acting strange.”

His lips twitch as if my observation amuses him. “How so?”

My mind whirls for a moment as I study him closer. “You don’t just chit-chat like this. Especially to me.”

“Is that a problem?”

“It’s just unusual.” And a bit concerning, if I’m being honest.

“I’m capable of being quite charming.” Brody tips his hat and smooths a palm down the pearl snaps of his western shirt.

A snort escapes me. “Oh, you’re joking. Okay, phew. I get it now.”

His jaw ticks and I brace for impact. “We’ve gotten off on the wrong hoof.”

“Well, look at you stealing my lines.”

“Seemed fitting.” Brody grips the back of his neck. “You were right then, just like now.”

My mouth pops open. “Is this another prank?”

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