Page 70 of Mountain Time
When she sees me, her face lights up, greeting me with a smile, making that tight feeling in my chest return.
I greet her with my own smile before wrapping her in my arms.
She holds me tight as she buries her face between my shoulder and neck.
My ribs are sore, but I hold back my wince. Having my arms around her feels right. Sure, I’ve had girlfriends come watch me ride before, but Kacey isn’t like any other girl.
When she finally pulls back, I run my hand behind her neck and pull her back in, giving her a kiss on the forehead.
“Hey, sweetheart.”
“Hi,” she squeaks excitedly.
I let her go and hold out the pass I had in my other hand. “What do you say, be my companion for the night?” I give her a wink.
“Aw, that is so sweet. Does it come with a diamond ring?” Jessie interjects.
“No, he left that in the truck. Hi, I’m Trey.” He smiles, taking off his hat and sticking out his hand to shake Jessie’s. She shakes his hand while looking him up and down, assessing him. Then she narrows her eyes and smirks.
Shit.
I sigh deeply and pinch the bridge of my nose. “We knew this would happen. You just have to let them fight for dominance. It’ll be fine.”
Kacey snickers beside me.
“I’d be happy to let you use my companion pass on one condition,” Trey informs her.
Jessie crosses her arms, causing her corset-style top to push up her cleavage. “What’s that?”
To Trey’s credit, he doesn’t glance down. Their eyes are locked on each other in some form of battle. “You just have to answer one question. I promise it’s nothing too personal.”
“Fine, shoot,” she says, rising to his challenge.
Trey gets that look in his eye and gives her his signature player grin. “Are you a fan of Big and Rich?” he asks and I immediately know where this is going.
I take a step toward him as Jessie tilts her head in confusion, replying, “Yes, why?”
“So, you’d be open to saving a horse and riding—”
I hit Trey in the stomach, hard.
He lets out a grunt and doubles over. “That fuck’n hurt,” he wheezes.
I rip the pass out of his hand and hold it out to Jessie. “Sorry, he’s like a puppy, still in training.” I look at Kacey and she’s covering her mouth to suppress a laugh.
Jessie takes the pass, gives Trey one last glance, and says, “Have you tried a shock collar? I hear they’re great training tools.” Then she turns and links her arm with Kacey’s. “Let’s go. The birthday girl needs a drink. I could also use a drink.”
My jaw drops. “Wait, it’s your birthday? Why didn’t you say anything?” I feel horrible. This is something I should know. I want to get her a present and—shit. I don’t even get one night with her. This is the type of thing Megan would use against me and get resentful, saying I wasn’t there for her birthday or other events. I don’t want Kacey to feel like I don’t pay attention to her or that I don’t care.
She groans, throwing her head back. “It’s not my birthday.”
“She’s right. It’s in two days, but we’re celebrating all week,” Jessie informs me.
“Well, happy early birthday. First round is on me—afterthe rodeo,” Trey chimes in, still holding his stomach.
I pull myself out of my spiral. “I wish you would’ve told me.” I hate how I sound slightly hurt. Trey might buy a round, but we can’t stay long. Wehaveto head to another rodeo.
She lets go of Jessie’s arm and steps closer to me. “It’s really not a big deal, and I’m sure you need to go get ready. We’ll meet up after for a drink. We can celebrate then.” She gives me a reassuring smile.
