Page 18 of Beautiful Envy

Cowboy shook his head at me like I was too cute for words.

“And you’re Brooks? You’re still Shy Cowboy in my head.”

His face tinted pink. “Yeah. Brooks Langston. Cowboy is my road name because of the rodeo.”

“Brooks,” I said, letting his name roll around on my tongue. “And the rodeo?”

“I’ll tell you all about it later.”

“Fair.” I sighed, knowing I needed to explain. “Well, Lennox is my best friend. I got into trouble a few days ago and had to leave my place quickly. I needed somewhere to go until I could figure out what to do. So I came here. Unfortunately for me, but good for her, she was heading out on tour this morning. Slade suggested Bubba, and here I am.”

His grip had become stronger at the mention of trouble, and he stared at me, knowing I wasn’t telling everything.

“What kind of trouble?”

“The MC kind.”

He swallowed, his eyes searching mine for something.

“What aren’t you saying, Rose?”

I sighed, dropping my eyes to the blanket. I played with the fabric as I debated how much to share. This wasn’t a random person. This was Cowboy. My Cowboy.

“Are you sure you want to know? Once you do, it’s not something you can unlearn.”

I peered up at him from beneath my eyelashes. His eyes were locked onto my face. They were strong and unmoving, offering me a strength I desperately needed.

“I just found you again, Rose. I’m not going to lose you over being scared. I want to know. I can handle it.”

Taking his word for it, I started at the beginning with Maddox and the Mavericks. I told him about my dad, the Agonizer, and Chase. He pulled me into his arms at some point, and we rested against the headboard as I continued my tale of woe and heartbreak. I shared how I came to Nashville on my own, finding myself in the midst of everything and learning to trust. How he’d helped me with taking back my body and sexuality.

I didn’t know how long I talked, just that I was spent by the end. Emotionally and mentally.

“There aren’t words to describe how amazing I think you are, Darcie. You truly have bloomed into a beautiful rose. Thank you for honoring me with your story. Now, rest. Close your eyes and sleep. I got you.”

I didn’t fight it. What was the point? Snuggling down under the covers, I rested on his chest, his heartbeat comforting as I fell asleep in his arms.

Diary #6

Dear Mom,

I’m at a loss for words. Something good finally happened from this mess, and I know I don’t want to screw it up.

I thought coming here would be torture, but the three guys have all been sweet so far. Well, Bubba is more gruff than sweet, but I think I’m wearing him down.

Pretty Boy is fun and makes me smile.

Bubba gives me someone to mess with.

And Cowboy… I’m just so happy to have my friend back.

I’m not sure what it means, but I’m really glad I’m here.

Love,

Darcie

CHAPTER 7

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