Page 39 of More Than a Good Friend

“I don’t even know if all of them are going to be there. And...” I’m not sure how to explain that my usual exploits haven’t been a priority these last couple of weeks. The sadness in Goldie’s gaze when she looked at me before saying that she wouldn’t settle still haunts me. Marriage is off the table, and I’m okay with that. But life is better when she’s smiling. And I’m done being a jerk to her. “I know we’re not like dating or anything, but I’d like to dance with you. If you want.”

“Sure.”

“If you already have a date, I’ll stay out of your hair.”

She shakes her head. “I don’t have a date that night. Trying to set up a date on Valentine’s seems like a colossally bad idea.”

“I see how that could be awkward.” I bite my tongue before making a joke about a guy showing up with a piñata and a ring. We probably need more time before that’s considered a joke.

I park outside the pasture and swing open the gate. “If he starts running toward you, I’ll distract him and you run out, okay?”

She inches back toward the fence. “Is he dangerous?”

“No, but if something happens, we have a plan.”

“How will you get out?”

“I’ll figure something out.” I pick up the barrel, and now I have the bull’s attention. “Watch this.”

I heave the plastic barrel, and the bull races toward it. Then, just like before, he nudges it back to me using his head. There are a couple of holes in the sides where the barrel has been punctured by a horn, which is a good reminder to keep distance between us and the pointy things.

Goldie eases up beside me, laughing. “I wonder who taught him to do that.”

“No clue. I’m more shocked that they sold him.” I throw the barrel again. “What should we name him?”

“Fetch.” The wind gusts, and she crosses her arms. “Or Fido.”

“I like Fetch.” I shrug off my jacket. “Here.”

She waves me off. “I’m fine.”

“You’re cold. Put the jacket on.” I drape it over her shoulders. “Please.”

“Only because you asked nicely.” She slides her arms into the sleeves. “Better?”

She swims in it, and it’s cute.

“Much. A couple more throws, and then I’ll take you back to the mess hall.”

Smiling, she rubs my back. “I’ve enjoyed this.”

“Me too. Definitely worth getting up a few minutes early.” And for me, that’s saying a lot.

* * *

I hefta bale of hay onto the trailer, then grab another. “How many more?”

Dallas picks up a bale. “This is the last one. You going to the dance tonight? How many dates are you bringing?” He laughs as he tosses the hay onto the trailer.

“No dates. But Goldie and I will be there.” I yank off my gloves and shove them in my back pocket.

“I thought you were supposed to be giving her space.” He crosses his arms and gives me an accusing look.

I hop off the trailer. “Not anymore. We’re good. Want me to drive the tractor?”

“Nope.” He pulls open the cab door. “Get situated. We have places to be.”

I settle onto a bale, ready to grab the rail of the trailer if the ride gets bumpy.

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