Page 22 of Long Hard Ride
And I know, I know,I know—a million times, I know—I shouldn’t be so hung up on Shane.
Shane’s flat-out told me he won’t fuck me again. Mr. No Commitment Ever insists we need to remain a make-believe couple with no complications.
That’s what hesaysanyway, but what hedoestells me something different. That’s even if I put aside the way he fucked me—and I’ve gotten myself off reliving that morning more times than I can count.
The way Shane treats me—taking interest in my art, making sure the heat is just right in the house so I’m not too hot or too cold, and just his overall sexy-as-fuck demeanor—tells me he cares.
Yesterday I found him out in back checking for snakes and clearing the weeds around my lounge chair. The man works about fifty hours a day, and he still makes time for me. And sometimes when he looks at me, I literally hear something switch in my brain. A tick, tick,tock. It’s a strange kind of rumbling, a kind of he’s-the-one, happy red-flag warning.
I hate to admit it, but I never had any of those kinds of feelings for Steve. I haven’t really even missed him since the day I married Shane. I’ve been doing everything I can do to tempt Shane to make love to me again. I want him like I’ve never wanted anything in my life.
And in my heart, I know it’s right. Forget the ranch, or the money—that’swhat this whole marriage is about. Shane and I are meant to be together. But he doesn’t see it the same way.
And here I am, staring out the front window, waiting for Steve to pull up in an old gray Chevy.
I hear an engine and the crunch of wheels over the gravel. My heart stands still as I wait for the car to round the shrub bush and come into view.
And then it does. My pulse skips as I open the door and hurry down the walkway. It’s been so long since I’ve seen Steve, and he’s come all the way from Chicago.
Steve gets out of the car. I freeze. Am I supposed to kiss him? Take up where we left off?
Should I run to him, when everything else is telling me to keep one foot close to my home with Shane? On the other hand, Shane encouraged me to see Steve. He didn’t seem bothered about it one bit.
Steve throws me a cheerful wave. His familiar smile makes me crack up. His sandy hair is much shorter since the last time I saw him. He’s thin, but ripped as usual, and it looks like there’s a new tat on his right arm.
Then his dangerous dark eyes latch on to mine. “Brooke.” His gruff, raspy voice rings across the driveway and crackles through my system. “What are you waiting for, sexy girl?” He beckons, arms wide open. I slowly approach him.
“Hey, there. Long time no see.” In seconds, his arms are wrapped around me and I’m snuggling against his chest. And I can’t help but melt a little when he hugs me and holds me tight.
I’m in the same arms that have given me strength for the last two years. Sure, our relationship has been off and on, mostly off because Steve just can’t catch a fair break. But even when he was in prison, Steve always called when he could and gave me advice when I needed it. He’s always had my best interests in mind.
Shit, this arranged-marriage thing is a mindfuck. Am I supposed to tell Steve I slept with Shane?
“So, all of this is yours now? Wow.” Steve lifts me off my feet and swings me in his arms.
“Not yet,” I say as he puts me down. Before I can say anything, or move, he gives me a quick kiss.
“It’s so good to see you,” he whispers against my cheek, but he seems distracted and pulls away. He makes a full circle, taking in the surroundings.
I guess all this land must be a little overwhelming for a city boy. Steve’s never been in Montana before, and West Palomino couldn’t be more different from Chicago.
“So, in a couple of months you’ll own all of it, and get all that cash too?” he asks, making another full turn, looking super happy for me.
“Not all of it. Remember, half goes to Shane. That’s if we can hit the sixth-month mark. And that’s a big if.”
Steve swings back to me and reaches for my hand. “Oh, you’ll make it, all right.” He brings my hand to his mouth and kisses the top. “Don’t you worry, Brooksie. I’ll make damn sure they give us everything you’re owed.”
Leave it to Steve to be so supportive. “I’m sure there won’t be any problems, but thanks.”
“Dude’s not here now, is he?” Steve props his hands on his hips and leans, checking down the driveway.
“Shane?” I shake my head. “No. We have the place to ourselves, just like I promised.”
“Perfect.” His hazel eyes sparkle. “I have something special for you, Brooksie.”
Oh shit. A present? Now I feel like I’m cheating on both men, and I’m not really with either one.
“Did you miss me?” he asks, cupping my face. “I sure missed you.”
