Page 94 of From the Ashes
Kenna thought it would be best if she asked a leading question and let me take the conversation down that road. Asking anything more direct would make it seem like she was outing me on purpose—and she didn’t want to do that, which I appreciate—but I’d argued that I wasn’t sure how to casually slip my relationship with Phoenix into this interview, either.
“And will you be returning to train at your home facility in Texas?”
“Actually, I’ll be staying in North Carolina indefinitely.” I pause and throw one more glance up at Phoenix who nods his head. “Phoenix and I are…” It’s on the tip of my tongue when I spot Jonas and Jackson join the small crowd that has gathered to watch the interview.
You have got to be kidding me right now.
I halfway expect Jonas to open his stupid mouth and yell something ignorant, but he just glowers at me.
Kenna tries to get me back on track without being pushy.
“You and Phoenix are…?”
I flash her a quick, apologetic smile before looking at Phoenix just over the camera lens and take a deep breath.I might be the only person to have ever come out on an Instagram live...but here goes nothing.
“Phoenix and I are dating. I’ve been in love with him for a long time, and I couldn’t be happier that he’s agreed to share his knowledge with me,andthat he’ll be traveling with me during the season.”
Because she knew it was coming, Kenna doesn’t miss a beat.
“Well, us here at LXR couldn’t be more thrilled to have Phoenix join your team. We know you guys will be unstoppable. What are you looking forward to the most about getting back in the ring?”
ThisI can do. My shoulders relax and palms finally stop sweating.
“That rush of adrenaline right before the shoot opens. I know within the first three seconds if I’m going to be able to hold on for all eight, and I love the feeling of knowing I’ve got the ride in the bag.”
“Well, we certainly wish you luck as you finish your recovery, and we look forward to your return to the circuit,” Kenna finishes with a nod. After that, I’m dismissed as she continues addressing the camera. “For those viewers here in Cheyenne today, Walker has graciously agreed to a meet and greet following this interview. He’ll be out here until four today, so come on by and meet the record holder for most championship titles won!”
I slip past her, out of the frame, and place my microphone in the open palm of a guy next to the man with the camera. Phoenix bursts past them both and pulls me into a crushing hug.
“I’m so fucking proud of you,” he says into my neck. “I can’t wait to get back to our hotel room tonight and show you just how much.”
I chuckle against his throat. “Don’t make me hard right before I have to shake hands and sign shit. That is, if people even want to meet me anymore,” I add.
Phoenix pulls back from the embrace to cup my face. “Hey, fuck them. If they don’t, let them go. I can guarantee you just got a huge fan base of queer cowboys and cowgirls who want to know they don’t have to be afraid to come out.”
I roll my eyes.
“Great, the pride flag will follow me everywhere I go now,” I mutter. I have nothing against the flag. Absolutely nothing. If you want to fly your flag, pride or otherwise, be my guest. But that’s not me. And it’s not Phoe, either. We just want to be left alone, love each other, and ride broncos.
Behind me, part of the PR team is setting up the signing table where I’ll be sitting. This is so fucking awkward. I’m always afraid no one will show up and I’ll look desperate…as if I actually wanted to do this anyway.
“Hey, can you grab me a beer?” I ask Phoenix. “Or liquor? Preferably liquor.”
When the man pulls a flask out of his jeans pocket, I almost drop down on one knee right here.
“Thought you might want this,” he says, holding it out.
“I ever tell you how much I fucking love you?” I unscrew the cap and take a swig.
“Once or twice, but I’ll never mind hearing it again.” He leans in, his hot mouth against my ear. “And again.” He pulls the lobe between his teeth. “And ag?—”
“Walker, you ready?” Kenna asks from behind me, causing me to turn. I realize that the crowd has tripled and several people are taking pictures of Phoenix and I’s moment.
I groan. “Can they really stop you from sitting at this fucking table with me?”
“Since they own the table, I’m going to say yes. But they don’t own this field, so I’m just going to take a seat in the grass right next to this fancy LXR tapestry behind you.” Phoenix chuckles.
I nod and sit at the table, turning to the first people who approach. It’s a dad and his son.
