Page 64 of Saddled in Secrets
The truth stings. I push most people away. Nobody gets to see the real me unless they make the effort to climb over an impenetrable wall. Most don’t bother trying. Meanwhile, Colton hops the defense mechanism like it’s barely a challenge. This man is willing to do whatever it takes to reach me.
A shiver rolls through me as his stare burns into mine. Commitment has never looked sexier, especially after he exposed a bashful side. That doesn’t mean I’m ready yet.
My gaze shifts over his head to the name that’s proudly displayed in bold letters on the building behind him. I’m instantly derailed and losing my shit again. This bout of laughter is slightly unhinged. Gosh, maybe I’m finally cracking. But it feels good to just let it out.
Mom would be hootin’ and hollerin’ beside me. Thanks to her, I’ve seen some impressive sights in my twenty-three years. This one erects my expectations to new lengths. People must stop and stare on the regular.
My grumpy jailer isn’t as amused. His expression is stony while I’m fighting to breathe. Tears are streaming freely down my cheeks at this point. I might be truly unraveling.
Spud chooses that moment to leap from the truck, landing gracefully at my feet. His wet nose boops my hand that’s holding his leash before he turns in Colton’s direction. With him tugging me along, we arrive on the sidewalk mostly composed.
“Woooo,” I exhale and wipe under my eyes. “What a treat.”
Colton’s stare remains blank. “Mhmm.”
“That was very refreshing after these past few months.”
Those baby blues pierce into me. “Whatever you need, Princess.”
I almost mewl at his gruff tone. The blush that very recently stained his scruffy cheeks replays in my mind. It makes me think of him laughing uncontrollably. That would probably really dome in. His lips press together in a firm line to extinguish the possibility.
But it still leaves me guessing. “How can you keep a straight face? You should be in stitches.”
“It’s a gimmick.”
“A provocative one that I applaud. This tiny town looks very unassuming until bam! Dirty Dicks.” I thrust my arms at the fluorescent signs flashing in the windows. “Maybe they’ll offer us dinner and a show.”
Fury rolls off him in jealous waves. “Better not.”
“Feel free to whip out that pierced pistol in your pants and wag it in my face. I’ll open wide.” My lips pop in invitation.
Colton groans and hangs his head. “Dammit, woman.”
“Don’t act scandalized,” I admonish.
“More like tortured.”
Before I can respond, feminine voices from down the road cut into our conversation. Two women are chatting loudly, lost in their own world. It makes me miss Paisley. We’ll definitely be coming to Dirty Dicks when she visits.
I’m deep in thought about friendship bonds when they notice us blocking their path.
The brunette gasps. “What an adorable dog.”
“Such a cutie,” the blonde coos.
Spud sits calmly, ready to be lavished with hugs and kisses. The women look to me for permission. Colton grunts and leans against the building, realizing this won’t be a quick exchange. Meanwhile, I offer a shrug and scratch the pooch’s head.
“We found him on our property earlier,” I tell them. There’s no mistaking the pleased rumble that rolls off Colton, but I don’t let him distract me. “Figured someone in town might recognize him.”
The blonde squats and extends her hand to Spud. “That’s very sweet of you. Unfortunately, there are a lot of strays in these parts.”
“You’re from around here?” I glance between them.
“Ohhh, yeah. Born and raised. I’m Christy.” The brunette points to herself before hitching a thumb at her friend. “This is Nina.”
The blonde gives Spud a final pat before straightening to wiggle her fingers at me. “Hey.”
“Nice to meet you. I’m Bianca and that’s Colton.” My head tips at where he’s typing on his phone, undoubtedly updating Brody on my latest shenanigans.
