Page 114 of Saddled in Secrets
We approach the vehicle to order. Grease and smoky flavors waft from inside the small kitchen. Colton greedily accepts the turkey leg that’s wrapped in thin layers of chicken and beef, which is magically held together by strips of bacon.
I stare at the creation in awe. “Good luck eating that.”
“It’s remarkable.” He kisses the protein overload before taking a massive bite.
“About to get jealous,” I mutter.
“Want some?” Colton offers me the mangled meat tornado that’s now dripping in juices.
“Um, no. That’s all yours, Stalker.”
He shrugs and resumes devouring his meal. I guide us in the direction of the darkened bleachers that surround the riding arena. The horse show ended hours ago, leaving that portion of the grounds quiet.
But before we can leave the carnival section, Brody and Paisley cross onto our path. Or that’s who they are on an average day. Halloween changes everyone, even my grouchy brother.
Laughter folds me in half. “I can’t believe what I’m seeing.”
My bestie smooths a palm down her fluffy pink costume. “You like?”
“Is it Christmas?” I cackle. “This is the gift I never asked for, but really needed.”
Brody scowls, obviously not impressed with his matching pony onesie.
“How—?” My question is a sputter. “Oh, gosh. I’m speechless.”
“He lost a bet,” Paisley answers.
I wipe under my eyes, fighting for composure. “And what was that?”
The blush on her cheeks punches me with regret. “You don’t wanna know.”
An exaggerated retching sound agrees. “Please forget I asked.”
Paisley’s smile is coy. “You two have caused quite the stir.”
“Us?” I snort. “That’s hilarious.”
She lifts her brows. “Costumes and jokes aside, your names are spilling from every mouth we walk by.”
I glance at Colton, but he’s too busy eating and making Brody envious. “They’ve never seen me in a relationship.”
My friend hums. “And Benson fodder fills the cup to the brim. You’ll be the talk of the town for months.”
“Good,” I chirp.
Paisley’s jaw drops. “You don’t care?”
“I do care. That’s why I’m glad they’re witnessing our fairytale.”
Her expression melts into goo. “I’m really happy for you, Bee.”
“Thanks. It feels really good to be loved like this.”
“You deserve it,” she exhales. “Okay, soak in the romance. We’re doing another lap. Have to get the most out of this reward before he retaliates.”
My brother grunts, but follows his wife like a dutiful husband in the doghouse.
I turn to Colton after they blend into the crowd. “Well, that was—”
