Page 7 of Fallen Cowboy
“Works for me.” He lifted her on his shoulders and handed her a brush. “We need to brush her before we saddle her to make sure there is nothing on her back. We don’t want to cause her undo harm.”
“Right!” she cried loudly, causing Rainbow to sidestep.
“Hey now, calm, remember?”
I couldn’t help but watch their exchange, soothing Rainbow. He was good with her, getting her to listen and teaching her what to do.
It was a good look on him.
“Are you ready to ride her? Mom can help with the saddle, and we can get you on?”
“Actually,” I started, grabbing the saddle mat and soothing it out before grabbing the saddle. “You have done wonderful with her, and I think you have a calming effect. I think you should take her.”
“Are you sure?”
His eyes opened wide in surprise, and I almost laughed. But for some reason, I knew he would be good with my daughter, and I trusted him.
“I am. I think it would be good for her. And honestly, you have the patience for her.”
I watched her, taking his guidance as he put her down, showing her how to get the straps right, and then helping her to lead out Rainbow.
I didn’t just trust anyone with MaryBeth, but I knew a good mix when I saw it, and somehow, Troy was good for her. He was a great mentor with kids in general.
What it wasn’t good for, though, was my lady bits, but more importantly, my heart.
Chapter 4
~ Troy ~
Iwatched as the two ladies walked out of the barn, MaryBeth’s high giggles being heard for miles on end. But it wasn’t just that cute sound that captured my attention.
It was the woman who was holding her hand.
The kiss last night did wonders for me.
Now, I wasn’t a virgin by any means; I had plenty of kisses and plenty of women. But that kiss, it was the sweetest, most meaningful kiss of my life.
And I wasn’t sure how to share that shit with my best friend.
I didn’t go in there thinking of kissing her.
It just happened.
I just wanted to.
Badly.
The bet was out of my mouth before I could think twice. And then I just had to win the game. I didn’t cheat, but I used every skill I had.
Did I think Markus would kill me?
No.
Okay, lie, yes, he would.
Markus already had an asshole deal with his sister. I had no doubt in my mind that he would think I would be the same. That I would only be out for one thing.
And damn it all to hell, for the first time while looking at a woman, that wasn’t what I wanted.
