Page 97 of Rainbow Rodeo

“We have your hash browns, man, and Deb’s food too.”

“I haven’t seen Miss Deb yet.”

“I’ll just put it in the microwave for her,” Dalton said.

Dustin handed over the box with Aaron’s hash browns.

The whole scene was a little dizzying.

Cowboys came in and out randomly as they peeled, and the twins knew everyone. Every single man, every single name. Their families. It was amazing.

Tank felt a bit like an island.

Dalton stayed close, one hand seeming to find him for any possible reason.

That made him sweat a little, and he was glad no one seemed to notice. Dalton just made him nuts. He wanted to have Dalton on his knees.

He wanted Dalton any way he could get the man, really.

“Stop looking at him like that, Tank. Momma’s got eagle eyes.” Dustin had a wicked look on his face.

“Does she?” He chuckled, but he didn’t want to upset Dalton.

“She does. Momma knows, but she’ll tease.”

“I can take it.” Tank was used to being teased. God knew, Buick did his share.

“You can take what?” Linda came in, Dakota trailing behind her, a thunderous look on her face.

“Mornin’, baby girl!” Dalton said.

“I’m not a baby.”

“You’re our baby,” Dustin shot back.

“Shut up.” Dakota gave him a grumpy cat face.

“Dakota!” Linda snapped. “You say hello to Mr. Tank and put your attitude away.”

“Hello, Mr. Tank.” She rolled her eyes at her momma, then leaped into Dalton’s arms. “You haven’t been home in forever. You should take me with you.”

“Uh, no. You’re in high school.” Dalton was laughing, though, teasing her.

“I’m a junior now. Are you going to be able to see my first varsity game? I’m a junior varsity officer.”

“I’ll be there.”

“Cool! It’s still summer, though. Take me on one round?”

Tank bent his head, peeling hard.

“I’ll take you with me, baby girl,” Dustin said. “Tank and Dalton are traveling together, huh?”

“Together together? Like… bumping uglies together?”

“Dakota.” Now Dalton gave her the look, and darned if it didn’t work.

Dakota flushed, then ducked her head. “Sorry.”

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