
ย
PROLOGUE
KANE
โMerry Christmas,โ I say to my dad when he calls.
โDonโt be late today, okay? Your momโs already hangry and ready to start without yโall,โ he warns as I look up at the clock. We werenโt supposed to meet for lunch until eleven, and I have twenty minutes to drive to my parentsโ. All of my family lives on the ranch, and it doesnโt take that long to get there. But I know when Mama ainโt happy, nobodyโs happy.ย
โOkay, okay. Iโm puttinโ on my boots right now,โ I tell him.ย
โAre ya gonna be okay with everything?โ
My face heats. โLike what?โ
โHadleigh and Knox,โ he confirms, but I knew what he was referring to. Hadleigh has been my best friend since childhood. I had a crush on her for years but recently realized it was nothing more than an infatuation. Everyone knew I had a thing for her. Well, everyone except her. For weeks, my identical twin brother and I fought for her attention. So instead of making her choose, I conceded. She deserves to be happy, and my brother could love her in ways I never could. Weโre better as friends, and I told her as much. Now she and Knox are a thing, and Iโm very happy for them, even if my jealousy got the best of me in the beginning. But itโs all water under the bridge now.
I smile. โDad, I swear Iโm completely over it.โ
โReally?โ His tone slightly changes as if he doesnโt believe me.ย
โYes, absolutely. Scoutโs honor. We wonโt be havinโ a repeat of Thanksgiving. I promise.โ
โGood. I donโt want to have to punish my grown-ass son for actinโ like a child in front of the family again,โ he confirms.
My brother and I got into a huge argument over Hadleigh in front of our large family at the Bed & Breakfast and embarrassed the hell out of my parents. Not to mention Iโd given Knox a black eye a week before that. Iโd allowed my emotions to get the best of me because I wanted the absolute best for Hadleigh. At that point, I thought Knox was just using her, and she deserved better than to be another one of his one-night stands. I realize how much I overreacted and allowed my temper to control my actions, something that had never happened before.ย
โYouโll find your person,โ he states, pulling me out of my thoughts. โNow hurry up and make your way over. Iโve got to remind your sister to leave now too. If youโre late, your mother is giving you all a bag of coal.โ
โDamn, Iโll be right there.โ
The call ends, and I go to the table where the finished leather journal lies. Itโs the first one Iโve ever made, and while Iโm not one to toot my own horn, Iโm proud of it. Itโs a symbol of how much I care about Hadleigh. I started this project before I knew how I truly felt about our friendship. It only felt right to continue working on it and give it to her as Iโd always intended. Over the past six weeks, I experienced many ups and downs, and there were times when I felt like Iโd gone to hell and back but making this for her was my saving grace. With the learning curve, it took a lot of time and dedication. It calmed me when nothing else did, and I will forever be grateful for that, considering how wound up I was at times.
I pick it up, feeling the weight of it in my hand. The earthy smell of the worked and burned leather reminds me of horseback riding and saddles. I carved her name on the front by hand and embossed flowers around it. I untie the leather straps that hold it closed and flip through the blank cream-colored pages. After a minute of staring at the first page, I grab a pen and scribble a note for her to read later.
Iโm so damn happy youโre happy.ย
Donโt break my brotherโs heart.ย
He couldnโt handle losing you.ย
A small smile touches my lips as I tie it closed, then tuck it in the bottom of the red-and-green gift bag I bought. I stuff candy caneโstriped tissue paper inside and let out a sigh of relief. Giving it to Hadleigh after the last month feels right.ย
She may have been the woman I crushed on for fifteen years, but I know deep inside that she wasnโt the one for me. Knowing that means I can search for the woman Iโm going to start a family with and spend the rest of my life making happy, and I hope to God I find her sooner rather than later.
CHAPTER ONE
IVY
PRESENT DAY
2 ยฝ YEARS LATER
Although the pollen tends to coat the hood of my car, I love late spring, right before summer. I always find something special about the grass and flowers coming out of hibernation after a long, brisk winter. Just another reminder that the seasons are changing and days are passing. Pretty soon, outside will feel like an inferno, so I try to enjoy the warm mornings while itโs still bearable.
After I grab my book and walk inside the goat soap warehouse where I work, my boss, Harper, greets me with a smile. She also gives me her signature good morning expression, but she looks exhausted while chugging coffee from her โBoss Momโ thermos.
โRough night?โ I ask, noticing the wild strands of hair that arenโt quite in her ponytail.ย
โYou have no idea. Hayden was up at four and wouldnโt go back to sleep. Thankfully, Grandma asked to keep the kids this morninโ. Thereโs some pre-summer thing theyโre having at church. Honestly, a literal godsend.โ
I snicker. โI was wonderinโ where they were. But hey, at least Hailey-Mae is a little angel.โ
Hayden is almost three, and we celebrated Hailey-Maeโs first birthday last month. Together, theyโre a handful, so Harper usually brings them to work with her. The shop has an area for the kids, and honestly, I love having them around. They always keep it interesting and make me laugh, especially Hayden with his mini-Bishop personality.ย
โMy son will probably be a devil. He was already cranky when I dropped him off.โ
โWell, if he is, a handful of women over the age of seventy will take him off her hands because heโs adorable.โ
โHe is when he wants to be. I know heโs not even in kindergarten yet, but Iโm dreading his high school years because heโs already giving me a run for my money.โ
โHopefully, heโll grow out of it,โ I say, setting my book on the counter and rummaging through the pile of orders to fulfill today.ย
She gives me a pointed look. โI highly doubt it, considering how sexy Ethan is. I swear heโs going to age like a fine wine. I tell him not to forget to wear that wedding ring because the old ladies at the diner give him the eye, knowing heโs married to me and has kids!โย
โCougars want to have fun too, ya know?โ I tease, knowing I shouldnโt because itโs too early to get her riled up.
Harper shakes her head and playfully scoffs.ย
โDo you blame them, though?โ I smirk. โA fine cowboy with a big appetite.โ I canโt even get the words out.
โHell no! If he werenโt mine, Iโd be lookinโ too, especially now since heโs letting a little more scruff grow.โ She finally bursts into laughter. โHot as hell.โ
โKeep that up, and youโre gonna have a third baby.โ I snort, and she does too. โOrders in the morning, then soap mixing in the afternoon?โ I ask, realizing just how much we have to get done tonight. Harper gives me a nod, and then we get to work like busy bees.ย
Our routine doesnโt change too much each day, but itโs extremely dependent on whatโs been launched and what sales weโre doing. This week, weโre focusing heavily on packaging before lunch so most packages can be postmarked on the shipment day. In the afternoons, weโve been prepping for the announcement, then pre-order launch of the first wave of summer scents. Since it takes almost six weeks for our homemade soaps to cure, running this business successfully means being ahead of schedule and overstocked for launches.ย
โYou know my sisterโs gonna go into labor at any moment,โ I sing-song. My sister, Hadleigh, is ten years older than me and has been best friends with Harper for as long as I can remember. A few months ago, Harper and I made a bet on which date we thought the baby would be born.ย
โWeโll see,โ she says with a chuckle.ย
โThe fact that Hadleigh is married to Knox Bishop and is now having a baby still shocks me.โ
โIt still shocks me too, but we need to go over the terms of this bet just so weโre both clear,โ she reminds me.ย
โOh no, maโam, we already shook on it. If I win, I get an entire paid weekend offโฆmy choice!โย
She gives me a mischievous grin. โAnd if you lose, youโre gonna babysit for an entire weekend for free.โย
โSeems like I win either way.โ I shrug because I love kids so much that itโs not really a losing situation.ย
โThatโs what you think,โ she playfully warns. โIโd almost feel bad for you if this wasnโt your idea.โย
Considering I donโt have any friends my age and only chat with Hadleigh and Harper, Iโm fine with babysitting, especially now that Iโm on my summer break from college.ย
Harperโs increased my hours to full-time for the summer since she needs the extra help, and I want to save more money. Plus, I love being on the Bishopโs ranch and hanging out with her.ย
The warehouse contains several long tables for packaging in the middle, a kitchen area for mixing ingredients, a curing area after the soaps are molded, and then shelves upon shelves of stock thatโs ready. Itโs a whole process, but a fun one.ย
Harper walks by the counter where I set my book and glances at it. โThe cover is interestinโ. Whatโs it about?โ
โI dunno, some girl who went missing or something. It was recommended in one of my book groups, and I wanted to try a thriller between my fantasy books. Iโm going in completely blind!โ I grab soaps and place them on top of the order sheets.ย
โThat actually sounds creepy.โ
โIโll let you know how it is tomorrow. Iโll probably finish it tonight.โ I shoot her a wink.
โBetween reading and listening to books, how many do you finish in a year?โ
โClose to three hundred. Maybe three-fifty with audiobooks.โ
Her eyes widen. โI wish I had that much time!โ
That has me snorting. โYou mean, you wish you had no boyfriend or friends? Because thatโs what happens when youโre a book nerd. Book boyfriends over real ones.โ
She chuckles. โStill, I should make more time for other hobbies.โ
I smile, trying to find my words so I donโt stutter over them. Harperโs patient and waits for me while I articulate my thoughts. โWell, itโs understandable why you donโt. You have a super successful business. A husband who loves you. Two beautiful kids. And you live on the ranch. Iโd trade reading a thousand books per year for all that.โย
She gives me a somber look. โYouโre only nineteen and have plenty of time to have all those things too. Youโll graduate with your business administration degree, and then youโll be unstoppable.โ Harper lifts a case of boxes that need to be folded and taped for shipments.
โIโm glad you have faith in me.โ
โAlways,โ she says.ย
Once I pop in, I scroll through my phone to find the fantasy book I started yesterday. Itโs been on my to-be-read list since January, and now itโs May. Once Iโm fully immersed in a different world, I start my tasks.
The two of us work together like a well-oiled machine, and she doesnโt micromanage me. Sometimes, when the kids are here and she has to take care of them, she lets me work alone. Iโm an introvert and strive in this type of environment. At this rate, Iโll retire here because I love it, and it pays well. This job is why I decided to get my associate’s degree in business. I want to help Harper grow it to be even bigger than what it is now.
When I turn around, Harper waves her arms to get my attention.ย
I removed one of my earbuds. โHave you seen the Strawberry Shortcake soaps?โย
โI think itโs up top, above the Cotton Candy ones,โ I explain. I placed them there after they waited their six-week cure time. After a while, all the bright colors start to look the same.
I restart my audiobook, then continue what I was doing. Another reason I love working with Harper is because she doesnโt force me to talk. Sheโs just like my older sister and brings out the best in me, and Iโm comfortable around her. Iโm the stereotypical quiet book nerd, and I proudly wear that badge of honor.
After another hour passes, my phone buzzes in my back pocket.ย
Hadleigh: Water just broke! Going to the hospital now.ย
Ivy: YAY!!! Should I meet you up there?ย
I yelp with excitement and run over to Harper.ย
โHads is in labor!โ My grin is so wide it almost hurts.ย
โRight now?โ Harper pulls her phone from her pocket just as giddy as me and reads her text. โI didnโt even feel it vibrate, but youโre right.โย
โSo what do we do? Do we go now?โ I ask, overcome with emotions. Iโm finally going to be an aunt, and I canโt wait to spoil my nephew.ย
โBabies donโt just fall out when your water breaks. Especially not a Bishop baby,โ she explains. โWhen she arrives at delivery, theyโll see how dilated she is, and then Iโll tell you if we need to rush or wait.โ
โThank goodness youโre a pro at this,โ I admit. โI donโt know how any of this works.โ
โIโm not sure Iโd consider myself a pro, just got a tiny bit of experience.โ She chuckles. โIโll text her and get the low down.โ
โAwesome!โ I go back to packaging, but I donโt restart my book because Iโm too wound up. โOh yeah, I won!โย
Harper playfully rolls her eyes. โYou did, fair and square. Any weekend you want, and itโs yours.โย
โHeck yeah.โ
โBut I know youโre going to spend it reading in bed,โ she adds.
โDamn right.โ I shoot her a wink.ย
My phone buzzes again, and I check it.ย
Hadleigh: You might want to wait until after work because the waiting room will be crammed with family, and I know how you get around big crowds of loud people.ย
Ivy: LOL! I can do that! Thanks for sparing me.ย
Hadleigh: Donโt want you to be too anxious before meeting Hendrix ๐ Iโll make sure Knox keeps you updated. Love you.
Ivy: Love you too! Also hurry up and push that baby out.ย
Hadleigh: If ONLY it were that easy.
I read the texts to Harper, and she laughs. โOh, I almost forgot about how many people will be there. Sheโs probably right, honestly. It can be extremely overwhelming up there, fair warning.โย
โIโll probably wait until after my shift, then drive up so I donโt have to rush around to wait.โย
Harper grins. โThatโs smart, but if she delivers early and you change your mind, just know Iโm fine with ya leavinโ early. Your sister can only have her firstborn once.โ
โVery true,โ I say, but Iโm certain Iโll visit after most have seen the baby. Until I was reminded, I forgot how crazy the entire family is when it comes to newborns, especially their grandmaโRose Bishop.
โIโm gonna finish checking inventory and see what needs to be restocked. Iโll have to leave to pick up the kids once theyโre back,โ She explains while grabbing the additional shipping materials I need.ย
I give her a nod. โPerfect.โ
โYouโve got this.โ She moves to the computer and printer thatโs located on a stand-up desk, then grabs her clipboard with product numbers.ย
I turn my audiobook back on and get lost in the world of fairies that make women orgasm just by looking at them. Seriously, Iโm surprised Harper hasnโt asked me why Iโm blushing. At least reading keeps life interesting, considering how boring it is in the small town of Eldorado.
Throughout the day, Knox texts me from my sisterโs phone and gives me random updates. When itโs finally lunchtime, Harper waves her arms and points at the clock.ย
โDonโt skip lunch again,โ she reminds me. โIโve gotta go get the kids.โ
โYes, Mom. Also, I can handle getting everything prepped this afternoon so we can start on the strawberry margarita soaps tomorrow.โ
She grins. โYou sure?โ
โAbsolutely. Iโve done this a million times. Plus, itโll keep me busy all day which I need because Iโm so excited to meet Hendrix.โ
โOkay, thank you so much. If you need any help, please let me know and be very, veryโโ
โCareful, I know.โ I chuckle. โIโm a pro at pouring milk into ice trays. I can handle it, promise.โ
โYouโre the best, Ivy.โ
โThanks boss.โ I finish packaging the last few items as she makes her way out the door. If I donโt take a break right now, Iโll skip lunch, so I stop and warm up my food. Sure, I could go to the B&B and get some of Maizeโs amazing cooking, but I donโt want to eat alone. It would be too awkward, and I only like to go when Harper or my sister joins me. When the ranch hands try to talk to me, I turn into a stuttering mess, so itโs easier to stay in my comfort zone at the warehouse.ย
As I eat my lasagna for one, I grab my thriller book and start reading. After I finish three chapters, I text Knox on my sisterโs phone.
Ivy: Howโs it going? Has the baby popped out yet?
Hadleigh/Knox: Not yet. But soon. Heโll be here any minute.
Ivy: Better send me a pic after heโs cleaned up!ย
Hadleigh/Knox: Will do!ย
I canโt explain how damn excited I am. Hadleigh has always been a mother figure since our mom worked so much to provide for us. My dad left before I was old enough to remember him, so itโs just been the three of us. Hadleigh pushes me to do better, and I canโt explain how grateful I am that sheโs my older sister. Sheโs helped me break out of my shell, and I canโt imagine how Iโd be without her. Now, sheโs going to be a mom and raise her own babies, something sheโs always wanted.
After I finish eating, I wash my hands and look over the list of soaps weโre launching for the summer season.ย
We use the cold process when making goat soap. That means twenty-four hours before we stir the ingredients together, we freeze about 750 ounces of fresh milk in cubes. It keeps the mixture from having a chemical reaction with the lye, making the bars look discolored and brown. When the process is done correctly, the soaps are ivory white, and it allows the brightness of the colorant to stand out. Harperโs known for her hot pinks and blues, neon greens and yellows, and it all stems from the prep work we do the day before weโre set to mix and mold.
I carefully lay the trays on the prep tables, then walk over to the goat farm where Ethan, Harperโs husband works. As soon as I enter, one of the ranch hands greets me with a smile. I donโt have to ask for milk anymore. Instead, a few of them carry the gallons pumped this morning over for me.ย
โThank you,โ I say, and theyโre out the door with a head nod. Once Iโm alone again, I carefully pour the liquid into the rectangles. The key is to not overfill or waste a drop. I turn on my audiobook and do this for nearly an hour before my arm gets tired. While I rest my biceps, I look at my phone and notice some missed notifications. I quickly unlock it and am in awe by a picture of my beautiful nephew wailing.ย
Iโm overcome with joy as I hurry and text them back.ย
Ivy: Congrats yโall. Canโt wait to hold baby Hendrix in just a few hours. I love you two!
Hadleigh: Love you too, sis. Iโll see you later.ย
With a pep in my step, I stack the trays on top of one another and make my way toward the commercial-sized stand-up freezer. As Iโm walking over, I trip over absolutely nothing, and several trays spill down the front of my shirt and jeans.ย
Iโm infuriated with myself for being so damn clumsy, but I also know Iโll smell rotten by the time I get off work. I close my eyes, count to ten, and make a note of how many ounces Iโm wearing so Harperโs aware of my mistake. She wonโt care, but I hate it when I do stupid things because I want her to take me seriously.
Although Iโm full of dread, I send her a text to get it over with.ย
Ivy: I spilled six trays of milkโฆon myself.ย
Harper: Aw, itโs okay. Do you need to go home and change?ย
Ivy: No, I deserve it for being clumsy.ย
Harper: Youโre harder on yourself than I am on you.
Ivy: I know, but I canโt help it. This was stupid.
Harper: Whatโs the number one rule I have?
Ivy: No crying over spilt milk.ย
Harper: Thatโs right. It happens!
Ivy: Thank you! Good news is Iโll have everything prepped so we can kick ass tomorrow and make a thousand lemonade bars.
Harper: Looking forward to it!
The rest of the afternoon, I take more breaks so I can focus on what Iโm doing. By the time I finish, itโs nearly five, and because I smell gross, Iโll need a shower. I double-check the freezer, clean my prep station, then turn to leave.ย
During the drive home, my excitement begins to take over. Iโll finally get to meet my nephew, something Iโve been waiting all my life for because Iโve dreamed of being an aunt. I knew itโd happen before I became a mom because of Hadleighโs age compared to mine.
When I walk inside my house, I find a note from Mom telling me sheโs leaving for the hospital. I quickly take a shower, throw my hair into a ponytail, then head that way in fresh clothes. Considering itโs an hour’s drive, I have plenty of time to finish the current book I was listening to at work.ย
As soon as I turn onto the country road that leads to San Angelo, my nerves get the best of me. Itโs impossible to push it away because I know Kane will be there. Having conversations with people is already hard enough, but itโs almost impossible for me to chat with the man Iโve had a crush on since I was a kid. Because my sister and him were such good friends, Iโd see him around, but he always treated me as Hadleighโs kid sister.ย
Iโve run into him a few times on the ranch, and heโs been nothing but polite even if I struggle to get out a simple hello. It also doesnโt help that Iโm an introvert who thinks heโs the most gorgeous specimen Iโve ever laid my eyes on. Now that my sister married his identical twin brother and weโll be sharing a nephew, Iโm sure weโll run into each other more, or at least, I hope.ย
Knowing Iโm not paying attention to my book, I turn it off and continue in silence, practicing what Iโm going to say if I get the chance to chat with him alone. Since I started college last year, Iโve been trying to work on my self-confidence and focus on my social skills, so I wonโt pass up the opportunity to talk to him if it arises.ย
When I finally enter the waiting room, itโs still packed with Bishops, but my mama is still chatting with Jackson and Kieraโthe twinโs parents.ย
โHey. I was getting worried about you. Was just getting ready to call and check where you were.โย
โI know, sorry. I made a mess at the shop and had to shower,โ I quietly explain, not wanting to draw any attention.
โYou should go back there now,โ Mom says, guiding me toward the double doors. She waves over a nurse who scans me in and walks me to Hadleighโs room. I give her a smile, then gently knock before pushing open the door.ย
When I enter, KaitlynโKnox and Kaneโs sister whoโs in her late twentiesโopens the door with a grin. My eyes immediately meet Kaneโs, and it feels like every bit of air escapes the room. I swallow hard and glance around the room.ย
โHi.โ I silently celebrate not stammering when several sets of eyes are on me. โSorry, Iโm late.โ
โYouโre just on time,โ Hadleigh says sweetly. I move forward and sit in the chair right next to Kane. Our gazes lock, and it feels as if this moment is frozen in time. Eventually, I lean over to get the perfect view of my adorable little nephew. My arm brushes against his, and I feel butterflies flutter throughout my body. I swallow hard.ย
โYou wanna hold him?โ Kane asks, and I canโt help but study his perfect, beautiful lips. Realizing Iโm staring, I slide my gaze up to his crystal-blue eyes.ย
โYes, please,โ I nervously say as he stands inches in front of me and carefully gives me Hendrix. I can smell the light hint of his cologne and soap, and itโs so intoxicating that I sit.ย
My heart pounds heavy in my chest as we study Hendrix. Knox is talking to Kane, but his attention is zeroed in on Hendrix and me. I canโt help but notice how soft his expression is when our eyes meet.ย
โHeโs so perfect,โ I whisper, playing with my nephewโs tiny fingers.ย
I look up at Kane and smile. Something electric lingers between us, something I want to explore. I understand how the heroines of my romance books feel. Iโm almost at a loss for words as the butterflies in my stomach flutter.ย
โDid you hear me?โ Knox repeats.ย
Kane clears his throat. โSorry, what?โ
โWe should probably let some others in,โ he says, and I selfishly donโt want this to end, not right now. Iโd do anything for another ten minutes holding Hendrix with Kane this close.ย
โThey can wait their turn,โ Kane tells him, and I wonder if heโs thinking the same as me. I meet Hadleighโs eyes, nearly begging her not to kick us out, but I can tell sheโs exhausted.ย
โThatโs right!โ Kaitlyn says, moving closer so she can admire Hendrix.
โThere will be plenty of time, yโall. I promise. You can come over and visit whenever you want. No invite needed,โ she explains.ย
Knox speaks up. โExcuse me, invites are needed. We might be busy.โ He waggles his brows with a smirk as Kane shakes his head. Hadleigh and Knox chat away, but I donโt pay them any attention.
โLooks like weโll be sharing lots of nieces and nephews,โ Kane tells me with a smile.ย
I meet his gaze, trying to form my words. โI guess so.โ
A small smile touches my lips as I glance back down at Hendrix bundled tightly and sleeping so peacefully. I take in every second I can as Kane chats with his brother and Hadleigh. I was given the ten minutes with Hendrix that I wished for, but I know itโs time to go because others are waiting outside.ย
Kaitlyn looks at the clock and groans, then we both quietly chuckle.ย
โI donโt want to go either,โ I explain.ย
โI say we tell everyone else to fuck off and lock the door. Weโre his aunts!โย
As Iโm snickering, thereโs a light tap on the door, and their cousin Maize and her husband Gavin enter. Apparently, heโs a retired bull rider. Kane glances my way as he leaves, and my heart races. After I hand Hendrix to Maize, I say goodbye to Kaitlyn, then walk over to my sister, who looks gorgeous as hell after giving birth.
โI love you so much,โ I say, and awkwardly give Hadleigh a hug. โIโm so happy for you.โ
โThank you, sis. Hope youโre ready to babysit.โ
I grin wide. โAnytime. My schedule is wide open.โ
As Maize and Gavin chat about how adorable Hendrix is, I turn to Knox. โCongrats!โ I tell him.
โThanks, Ivy. So glad you came by.โ
โMe too,โ I admit. โBoth of you need some sleep.โ
โNow whoโs acting like Mom?โ Hadleigh throws my way with a wink.ย
I give her a quick wave, then walk into the hallway. Iโm pleasantly surprised that Kane is patiently waiting, and when he falls in line next to me, my stomach fills with butterflies. Heโs never made an effort before, but Iโd be lying if I said I didnโt like it.
โWow, I canโt believe we have a nephew.โย
โI know, itโs insane,โ I say honestly, glancing his way as he pushes open the door for me.ย
โBabysitting is gonna be a blast. Iโm sure heโs gonna be a breeze to watch and a lot of fun as he gets older. I might be biased, but Hendrix is adorable.โ
He smirks. โI agree wholeheartedly. He looks just like Knox and I did.โ
This makes me laugh, but I notice the resemblance. Before I get the courage to start my next sentence, I suck in a deep breath and lick my lips. โSoโฆโ I say, hoping my words donโt get stuck in my throat. โI know this might come off a little awkward butโโ
Before I can spit out what I want to say, a raven-haired woman with big boobs and bright blue eyes walks up and interrupts us.ย
โSweetheart,โ Kane mutters, almost surprised. โI didnโt think you were going to make it.โย
She glances at me, like sheโs sizing me up, then presses her lips against his. โI didnโt think so either, but I was able to get off work early. I didnโt want to miss this.โ
Itโs awkward standing here, listening to their conversation, but I canโt just walk away either.ย
โYou should go in and see them really quick. Theyโre in room 585. Iโll meet you there in a bit,โ he tells her. She agrees, kisses him again, then walks away.ย
My heart thuds in my chest, and my cheeks heat when their lips touch again. I stare off into the distance, wishing I could disappear. When sheโs completely out of sight, Kane turns to me.ย
โSorry, what were you saying?โ
โOh, it was nothing.โ I smile and try to keep my tone light and fluffy, but it feels impossible. โWell, I should probably get going. It was really good seeing you.โ
โYeah, you too.โ
Awkward silence returns, and it seems to draw on for eternity. Neither of us moves.ย
โLet me walk you to your car. You can tell me about school,โ he suggests, but I feel like heโs just being nice for the sake of it.ย
โNo, no, itโs fine. Iโm parked right up front. You should probably go meet up with your girlfriend. I donโt wanna keep you,โ I truthfully say.ย
โYouโre not,โ he states. โIโll be happy toโโ
โTake care of yourself, okay? Have a good night.โ I donโt want his pity or for him to feel like he has to be kind to me for the sake of it.ย
โYou too,โ he tells me, almost sounding defeated.ย
I give him a nod and make my way to the elevator, needing fresh air. I almost made one of the stupidest mistakes of my life and asked Kane to hang out when he had a girlfriend. Thankfully she walked up and stopped me from embarrassing myself. Though, it sucks because Iโd finally found the courage to ask the man Iโve had a crush on since I was twelve to hang out or grab some coffee sometime, and now I canโt.
CHAPTER TWO
KANE
โShit.โ I roll over, trying to turn off my blaring alarm. My phone drops to the floor with a loud thump while the annoying siren screams. I lean over my bed, blindly reaching for it, and miraculously find it. I check the time, and itโs almost five in the morning. Waking up early is the norm around here, but it doesnโt make it any more palpable.ย
I get up to piss, then brush my teeth. After Iโm dressed, I grab my baseball hat, then leave. One good thing about living alone, I can be as loud as I want whenever I want. Since Knox and Hadleighโs baby boy is finally here, Iโm on double duty so my brother can have some bonding time with his son. Iโm more than happy to cover for him because I know heโll do the same for me when my firstborn comes.ย
Once Iโm in my truck driving down the long drive toward the barn, I realize I didnโt make any coffee. I contemplate running by the B&B on the way over but decide to wait until after the horses are fed. When I pull up to the barn, Paytonโs carrying two buckets of feed in both hands. I walk up to him.ย
โIโve fed stalls on the right already, workinโ on the left.โ
โIโve got the rest,โ I tell him, going to the storage room and measuring the feed for the rest of the animals weโre boarding.ย
A few years ago, my brother pitched the idea of running a breeding facility on the ranch. After it was approved by the family, I was asked if Iโd join him and help manage the operation. I couldnโt say no. After we acquired more stud horses and expanded our boarding stalls, we had Payton transferred here to help full-time. Before that, we all worked in different areas on the ranch and often did the same bitch work. Heโs a hard worker and friends with my sister, Kaitlyn. While we keep him as much as we can, when our cousin Ethan is shorthanded on the goat farm, weโll send him there too. He mostly keeps to himself, but also does his fair share of shit talking.
Spring through summer is fertile season for the females so weโre always very busy. We board mares for a month to ensure they get pregnant, and considering we have twelve different studs, that means for six months of the year weโre taking care of twenty-four horses at a time. Itโs a lot of damn work, but with a one-hundred percent pregnancy rate, itโs worth it.
Payton passes me to refill his empty buckets and then finishes up. As the horses eat, we hop in the truck and make our way to the B&B to quickly eat breakfast. Since weโre the only two working all week, we donโt have any time to waste.ย
โI didnโt expect you to be working so early,โ I admit as I drive us there.ย
โI know. Thought Iโd get a head start so weโd have plenty of time to have seconds. Woke up starvinโ.โ
I chuckle, and we go inside. โI know the feelinโ.โย
My mouth waters as the scents of frying bacon and butter biscuits fill the room. Dishes clank, and chatter fills the dining room. Itโs just a typical work day at the B&B. A handful of other ranch hands are already taking advantage of the first round of food to come out of the kitchen for the morning. As soon as I grab a plate, my cousin Maize comes from around the corner, shaking her head.ย
โYโall are gonna make me work extra hard today, arenโt ya?โ
I chuckle. โYou know youโd be bored out of your mind if it werenโt for us. How much food can twenty guests who are stayinโ here really eat?โ
She pokes me in the shoulder. โExactly my point. I wouldnโt have to work nearly as hard, and then maybe I could really focus on my catering business. Ya know?โย
โWe love ya for it, though, cuz. Nobody makes a buttered biscuit quite like you.โ
She cracks a smile. โOkay, now youโre just tryinโ to butter me up. Smart. You can have extra.โย
I pile up sausage, bacon, biscuits, blueberry pancakes, milk gravy, and a hefty scoop of western scrambled eggs, then join Payton at an empty table.ย
โWhatโs on the schedule today, boss?โย
โI think a quarter horse is showing up today, so weโll have to sign contracts, unload, and get the stall setup thatโs connected to the pasture with Blitz. Heโs a registered Arabian stallion whoโs the son of a champion racehorse. The breeding fees for him bring in a small fortune, not to mention what we make for housing the mare.ย
โThatโs it?โ
โI believe Juniper Blossom, the fire engine red quarter horse weโve had since the beginning of May, is being picked up around eight. So weโll have to deal with customers for a few hours, contracts, loading, and then making sure the stall is clean for tomorrow. Then rinse and repeat. Oh, we need to probably check the cameras we have installed to see how many times the horses mated yesterday so we can keep track.โ
Payton swallows down a bite of eggs. โSounds good. Is Knox coming in today?โ
โHe said he might stop by in the afternoon, but I’m not sure yet. I told him to stay home and enjoy his time off, but you know how well he listens.โย
He nods and chuckles. โYeah, as well as a screaming toddler.โ
โYouโre right โbout that.โ I put butter and strawberry jam inside my warm biscuit, then eat half in one big bite. Payton gets up and grabs another plate of food, then returns. Guess he wasnโt kidding about being hungry.
โSeems like we got a busy day,โ he continues.
โYeah, pretty sure itโll be like this rest of the week, and next month, oh, and the next.โย
Payton shrugs. โThatโs life on the ranch, ainโt it? Beats the alternative.โ
When weโre almost finished clearing our plates, my cousins Riley and Ethan enter. Theyโre being loud as hell too.ย
Uncle John comes from his office and glares at them. โYโall need to quiet down. We still have guests sleepinโ upstairs and donโt need yโall wakinโ them up being rowdy.โ
He manages the B&B and has since he was our age. Without him, Iโm not sure this place would be as successful as it is. My cousin Maize is his daughter.ย
โYes sir,โ they say in unison, but as soon as he walks off, Diesel bursts into the B&B yelling at them to wait up. I shake my head and put my dishes in the tub.ย
โWhatโs so damn funny?โ I finally ask, as I reposition my hat.ย
โWe pranked someone and theyโre pissed,โ Diesel states.ย
โIt better not have been Kaitlyn.โ
They laugh harder and Dieselโs nearly gasping for air.ย
โYouโre messinโ with dynamite. Sheโll explode on yโall without apology.โ
โThereโs a problem with that. Kaitlyn doesnโt know it was us,โ Riley says like heโs smarter than my sister. Spoiler alertโheโs not.ย
I shake my head and look at Ethan because I thought he was smarter than those two idiots. โI canโt believe you let tweedle dee and tweedy dumb rope you into these shenanigans. What did yโall do?โ
Ethan zips his mouth, locks it, then throws away the pretend key. โThey threatened me so I canโt say shit.โ
โFine. Maybe Iโll text and ask her what happened today, then accidentally tell her whoโs responsible.โ
โOkay, okay,โ Diesel says. โWe put her truck on blocks.โ
โYou did what?โ Payton asks from behind me.ย
Riley snickers. โShe cursed me out, then threatened to slit my tires for parkinโ behind her the other day when I came for lunch. Apparently, I was makinโ her late to a training session. She cursed me out real good, so this is payback.โ
โI feel sorry for yโall when she finds out,โ Payton warns. โReal sorry for ya.โย
โAs long as you two keep your damn mouths shut, she wonโt know.โ
I laugh. โI ainโt gettinโ involved in any of this. When she burns your houses down, just remember this day.โ
Payton and I go back to the truck, and weโre both shaking our heads.ย
โYouโre gonna tell her, arenโt ya?โ I ask him because I know theyโre good friends.ย
โNah. But if she asks for help getting them back, Iโm fuckinโ game.โ
โThey started a shitstorm.โ
โSheโll destroy them like a tornado,โ he confirms as we arrive at the facility.ย
I go into the office as Payton goes to get Juniper Blossom ready. Weโve got a few hours, but I make sure all the release forms and disclosures are signed along with the total for the final payment. Once I do all that, I find Payton.ย
โGotโer together?โ
โYep, just waitinโ for her owner.โ
โGreat.โ
Before I make it to my office, my cell buzzes in my pocket. When I pull it out, I see a notification from my sister.ย
Kaitlyn: You responsible for this shit?
She sends a picture with her truck suspended on concrete blocks. The tires are stacked in a pile beside it. I wonder how early those fools got up to do this and still have time for breakfast before their shift.ย
Kane: Hell no. I would never.ย
Kaitlyn: You know who did?
Now, this is a question I donโt want to answer. Theyโll know either Payton or I told Kaitlyn and then theyโll retaliate against us too. I donโt have time for their games, at least not until Knox gets back.
โI told her,โ Payton says with a chuckle. โTheyโre done.โ
Kaitlyn: Never mind. Riley and Diesel, even Ethan are dead meat! They just started WW3!
Kane: Donโt do anything dangerous.
Kaitlyn: They. Fucked. Up. Thatโs all Iโm saying.
โYa think I should give Diesel and Riley a warning?โ I ask.ย
โNah, they made their bed, now theyโre gonna get buried in it. Riley shoulda just ignored her temper. He brought it to this level.โ
โYeah, youโre right. But Iโm staying out of this.โ
Payton and I walk around the property to do a perimeter check on the fence lines of the segregated pastures. Itโs something we do each Monday just to make sure we donโt have any escapees. Since weโre responsible for other peopleโs horses, itโs important they stay safe and are well taken care of. While we have insurance to cover any sort of disaster that could possibly happen, itโs important that we avoid it at all costs. We have a reputation to uphold.ย
Before the clock strikes eight, I see a large diesel truck pulling a gooseneck horse trailer kicking up dust.ย
โMr. Hendersonโs here,โ Payton leans into the office and tells me.ย
โThanks,โ I say, and go outside to meet them in their vehicle.ย
โHowdy,โ Mr. Henderson says and we exchange handshakes. This time his wife stayed home. โYou think my mare took?โ
โYes, sir. Considering how things have gone, Iโd almost guarantee it.โ
โThatโs good news. Hopefully Juniper ainโt the exception.โ
โTheyโve been cozy,โ Payton explains.ย
Mr. Henderson grins wide. โGood.โ
He follows me into the office, signs the forms, pays the final bill, and then Payton loads her up.ย
โDonโt forget to send us some pictures once the colt is born,โ I remind him as we pass the wall full of all the babies our studs are responsible for.ย
โI wonโt.โ He gives us each a final handshake and then is on his way.ย
It took about an hour to take care of everything, and while Payton cleaned the stall, I check my phone.ย
Knox: Howโs everything going so far?
Kane: Great. Got it all under control.
Knox: Might stop by after Hendrix goes down for his nap.ย
Kane: You donโt gotta.ย
Knox: I know, but Iโm already missing it. Plus, Hadleigh has told me several times Iโm hovering.
Kane: Have you been?
Knox: Truthfully? Yeah. Iโm not used to just sitting around so Iโm going stir-crazy. Oh, before I forget. You know who took Kaitlynโs tires off her truck?
I chuckle.ย
Kane: Riley, Diesel, Ethan, and I think they got a few ranch hands to help.ย
Knox: Idiots. Theyโre utterly fucked.
Kane: Thatโs what I said. Anyway, I need to catch up on emails and return a few calls. Iโll talk to ya later.ย
Knox: Yep. See ya.
Itโs important that we stick to our scheduling because weโve pre-booked our years. We require non-refundable deposits and have a waitlist for cancellations within twenty-four-hours. Iโm solely responsible for the back-end work while Knox takes care of the front end. We work well together, and Iโm grateful my brother trusted me enough to be his partner in crime in real life and in business.ย
I finish adding things to our weekly task list and updating the whiteboard on the wall, so Payton knows which horses are coming in and going out. Itโs a revolving door, and from March to early September, weโre slammed. During the fall and winter, when mating season ends, we put the studs on mounting mares and collect sperm, freeze it, and sell it online. Itโs not quite as reliable as the real deal, but weโve made a pretty penny and have an eighty-percent pregnancy rate. So while weโre not as busy during those seasons, we still have stuff to do. Shipping and freezing horse sperm isnโt something Iโd ever expected myself to be doing, but itโs honest work.
After Iโve responded to fifty emails, printed out new website orders, and checked in a new mare, itโs nearly time for lunch. We usually take an hour from twelve to one, so we have plenty of time to eat and get back for the afternoon rush. The B&B is busy as hell, but Payton and I eat quickly then we head back. As soon as we park, Knox drives up and meets us.ย
โHey, daddy,โ Payton says with a chuckle.ย
โDonโt say it like that, ya sick fuck,โ Knox tells him.ย
โJust couldnโt stay away, could ya?โ Payton likes to give Knox a hard time. That hasnโt changed from when we were all doing bitch work together. As Knox and Payton go back and forth, I feel my phone vibrate in my pocket. I pull it out to see a text from my girlfriend, Raelyn.
Raelyn: I was just thinking about you, baby. Howโs work been today?
A small smile touches my lips.ย
Kane: Itโs going okay. Busy as always.
Raelyn: Thatโs my stud master.ย
This causes me to chuckle. Knox looks at me.ย
โWhoโre you chattinโ with? Your girlfriend?โย
โSomething like that,โ I tell him.ย
We became exclusive only a couple of months ago but went on our first date six months ago. Raelyn and I met at Hadleigh and Knoxโs wedding last year, but our schedules rarely synced up to get to know each other. Finally, after some consistent dates, we made it official. While we can only spend time together a few times per month because of our conflicting schedules, we have a good time when we do.
She sends a text. I open it to see a picture of her standing in her bathroom wearing only a bra and panties.ย
Raelyn: Wish you were here.ย
I smirk.ย
Kane: Damn girl, I do too.ย
Another picture comes over, and this time, sheโs completely naked. I swallow hard.ย
Raelyn: Sure you canโt step away for a few hours? Promise itโs all itโd take.
Kane: Sorry, I canโt. Weโre already shorthanded, but trust me, I really wish I could.ย
Raelyn: Maybe next time.
Kane: Iโll take a rain check.
I lock my phone and shove it in my pocket before adjusting myself. Raelynโs a beautiful woman and very independent, but sheโs also very flirty with every man she meets. Itโs something that bothers the fuck out of me, but Iโm trying hard to get over it. Weโve agreed to be exclusive. While our relationship dynamic is different, and I donโt know if sheโs really the one for me, weโre both willing to see where things go.
CHAPTER THREE
IVY
As I open my laptop and log in to my college’s online portal, I suck in a deep breath. Final exams were last week, and our grades will be released today. I think I did great on all of my tests except for calculus. Thankfully, I donโt ever see myself using the concepts in real life. Iโm not trying to be a rocket scientist. I just want to make goat soaps.ย
After I log in, I wait for my grades to load and nearly burst into tears when I see a row of Aโs. The first thing I do is text my sister.ย
Ivy: I MADE A 4.0!
Hadleigh: Oh my goodness! Congrats! Weโre totally going to have to celebrate.ย
Ivy: Thank you! Iโm shocked. Math kicked my ass.ย
Hadleigh: Youโre smart! I had no doubts.ย
Ivy: At least one of us was confident. Howโre things going today? Do you need anything?ย
I watch her text bubble pop up and disappear a few times, then finally, the message arrives.ย
Hadleigh: Only if you were planning to come visitโฆ
Ivy: How did you know I was going to ask to see my gorgeous little nephew today?
I laugh at how well my sister knows me.ย
Hadleigh: Just a hunch. You can say no, but I would love it if you could pretty please pick me up some food from the B&B. Maize texted me todayโs menu. She made chicken fried chicken, and itโs one of my favorites. Knox had to go to the office, and theyโre busy, so I donโt want to bother him.
Ivy: Iโll be happy to stop by there on the way. Do you want dessert too?
Hadleigh: Who passes up triple chocolate cake?
Ivy: Youโre right. Probably a dumb question. ๐ย
Hadleigh: Thank you. Youโre the best sister in the world! Hendrix canโt wait to see his favorite auntie.ย
Ivy: Iโm gonna give him all the chubby cheek kisses when I get there.ย
Hadleigh: See you soon. Iโm so proud of you!
Ivy: Thanks so much.ย
I check the time and then pull my curly hair into a high ponytail. Of course Iโm wearing a bookish T-shirt and some jean shorts, but โIโm not like other girlsโ is my style. Hopefully, the stop at the B&B will be quick, and no one will want to chat. Though, Iโm already mentally preparing myself to have to speak.ย
When I walk out of my room, I pass my mom, whoโs knitting on the couch. โOh, new project?โ
โIโm working on a blanket for Hendrix for Christmas,โ she explains.ย
โStarting early.โ I give her a grin and compliment the gray and blue yarn she chose.ย
โWith how busy things are at work, it might take me the whole seven months to finish it.โ Mom chuckles. โHeadinโ out?โ
โYep, Iโm gonna take Hadleigh some lunch and see Hendrix,โ I explain, slipping on my sandals.ย
โSend my love.โ
โI will,โ I tell her, then go to my car. As soon as I get inside, I connect my audiobook app so I can listen to my book on the way there. While I love fantasy romance, Iโm listening to an erotic werewolf romance right now, and itโs so damn hot. I wouldnโt be surprised if my car caught on fire.ย
When I pull into the B&B, the parking lot is full. Visiting during the lunch rush probably wasnโt the best idea. I walk up the steps and say a little prayer that thereโs no line. I donโt visit the B&B often, and I never stay and eat unless Harper or Hadleigh are with me.
As I enter, I hear chatter in the dining area and know itโs packed. I stop at the end of the line and wait. When I turn and look over my shoulder, I see the man Iโve had a crush on since I was twelve years old. The electricity streaming between us is like an inferno ready to swallow me whole. The intense eye contact causes my temperature to rise, but I canโt stop staring. He walks toward me with a sexy as sin smirk and falls in line behind me.ย
โHey, Ivy,โ he says, and right now he has my full attention. Kane is much taller than me, and I can just imagine what itโs like to be wrapped in his muscular arms. Listening to that sexy audiobook before I arrived probably wasnโt the best idea.
โHi,โ I finally say, heat meeting my cheeks as I try not to care. But damn, heโs mesmerizing as he confidently stares at me. When he licks his lips, I nearly melt into a puddle on the floor. The line moves forward and before I pick up a to-go box, Kane speaks up. โYou stayinโ to eat?โย
โI was gonna grab something for Hadleigh, then head over.โ
โYouโre missinโ out on one of the best meals on the ranch. Stay and eat with me.โ
Unable to resist the opportunity to spend time with him after our hospital chat was cut short, I agree. โYou talked me into it.โย
โDidnโt take much convincing. I like that,โ he admits, and we fill our plates full, then each take a glass of sweet tea.ย
Kane walks to a table thatโs by the large window, and I follow him. My heart flutters when I realize thereโs only enough room for two. Feeling self-conscious, I look around, but no one is paying any attention to us. He sets down his tray, then pulls out the chair for me. No man has ever done that before.ย
โThank you.โย
He shoots me a wink and then sits in front of me.ย
As soon as I take my first bite of steak, I let out a moan.ย
Kaneโs eyebrow pops up with amusement. โMaizeโs perfected Grandmaโs recipe, but she hardly ever makes this anymore, so itโs a special occasion.โ
โThatโs a shame,โ I say. โItโs the best thing Iโve had in my mouth in months.โ
His cute smirk that I love so much is on full display, and I realize the slip of my tongue.
โWell, that came out wrong.โ My nerves are getting the best of me. Iโve never really had the opportunity to have a private conversation with him like this without interruption, and I want to say and ask so much.
โYouโre going to see Hendrix after this?โ He easily keeps the conversation moving.
Since itโs not polite to speak while chewing, I cover my mouth with my hand. โYes. Iโve been impatiently waiting for Hadleigh to catch up on sleep so I can bombard her without feeling guilty.โ
He chuckles. โIโve been doing the same.โ
โYou should come with me,โ I say, and Iโm kinda shocked the invite tumbled out so quickly.ย
โI wish I could. Weโve been super busy in the office and I gotta get back right after lunch.โ
As if he can see the disappointment in my expression, he hurries and adds, โWe should plan it sometime soon when I can break away.โ
โDeal,โ I say. I appreciate how he waits for me to speak and actually listens when I do. I think this might be the most Iโve talked to anyone in months. Well, other than my sister and Harper. โSo you said you were busy. What is it that you do again? Watch horses bang all day?โ
Kane lets out a roar of laughter, and the ranch hands sitting at the long table across the way turn and look at us. After he catches his breath, they go back to their conversation and pay us no mind at all.ย
โNot exactly, but thatโs hilarious. Next time someone asks me, Iโm just gonna tell them that.โ
โHey! Itโs plausible, considering itโs a stud farm.โ
He shoots me a playful expression. โItโs a little bit more complicated than that, but at the most basic level, weโre horse pimps.โ
His response catches me off guard and causes me to snort. โThatโs interesting.โ
โWe basically breed horses and deal with owners, online sperm sales, and a lot of paperwork. But itโs fun. Beats being a ranch hand floater who does the bitch work every day. What about you? Whatcha up to these days?โ
I swallow hard and take a sip of tea. Iโm not used to talking about myself very much. โIโฆโ I stammer. โI finished my second semester of college and made all Aโs.โ
He has no idea how much I appreciate him waiting for me to finish my sentence, or maybe he didnโt even notice. Itโs hard to tell because his eyes donโt leave mine.ย
โWow, congrats. Thatโs incredible, Ivy. So youโre a genius?โ
โNot exactly but thank you. I was just as surprised. But now Iโm on summer break, and Harperโs letting me work as much as I want. So Iโll be hanging out at the warehouse for the next few months.โ
He looks at me over the rim of his glass as he takes a drink, then sets it down. โIโm actually looking forward to seeinโ you more.โ
Blush hits my cheeks, and I try to contain my smile but find it impossible. โYeah, maybe we can have lunch again one day?โ
โIโd like that.โ Kane meets my gaze, and I swear he wants to say something more but doesnโt. โSo other than working this summer, do ya have any other plans? Any crazy vacations? Road trips?โ
I giggle because itโs funny he thinks I have a social life. โJust hanging out with fictional men.โย
He pops a brow. โFictional? You still read a lot? I remember Hadleigh talking about how many books you used to read back in the day.โ
Him remembering that Iโm a huge bookworm warms my heart. โOh yeah. I think itโs only gotten worse now that Iโm reading adult books.โ
โAdult? As in porโโ
โFantasy. Itโs my favorite, but Iโm not opposed to trying other genres. In the past year, Iโve dipped my toes into some erotic fantasy.โ Iโm tempted to tell him about the plot of the sexy werewolf book Iโm listening to, but I keep my nerdiness to myself.
โSoundsโฆkinky.โ His words come out rough, and it causes my skin to prickle.
โItโs very, very scandalous.โ I love being under Kaneโs microscope.ย
His gaze sweeps from my eyes down to my lips, and for a moment, time feels as if it stops. โSo Ivy Callaway. Hobbies include reading and working. Goes to college. Anything else I need to know?โ
Oh God, thereโs so much Iโd like to tell him right now, especially when the underlying current streaming between us is ready to pull me under. When I look into Kaneโs baby blues, my heart rate increases. Heat streams through me, and I wonder if he feels it too.ย
I clear my throat. โIโm a hopeless romantic.โ
โAt the core, I think we all kinda are.โ
With a nod, I smile, realizing how true that is. โI think everyone wants to find love and be in love.โ Iโm tempted to ask him questions about his girlfriend because Iโm curious, but I also donโt want to make it awkward. The reality is I donโt have the courage to mention her, especially not after how she treated me like I was invisible at the hospital.ย
Kane tilts his head. โIโve never heard such truthful words spoken.โ
There are only a few more bites of food on each of our plates and then we’ll go our separate ways. Iโve had a good time chatting with him, even if it was completely unexpected.ย
Once weโve finished eating, I speak up. โThanks for inviting me to stay.โ
He winks. โItโs been fun. We really should do it again sometime.โ
โIโd like that,โ I admit. We stand and Kane takes my plate to the dish tub, and I go back through the line to grab Hadleighโs food. He comes over before leaving, and he hesitates.ย
โTell Hads I said hey,โ he finally says.ย
โI will.โ
A smile plays on his lips. โDonโt be a stranger.โ
โYouโll see me around,โ I confirm, and he patiently waits for me. The fact that he gave me any attention today is enough to keep me coming back for more. I might be Hadleighโs little sister, but itโs more than obvious that something is brewing between us, and I want to find out what that is.ย
I drop two gigantic slices of triple chocolate cake in the box because it looks too good to pass up.ย
โYou need any help carryinโ all that?โ Kane asks, but I decline his offer.ย
I stack the Styrofoam boxes on top of each other and keep a firm grip as he leads the way through the B&B. When weโre close to my car, he opens the door for me.
โThank you,โ I breathlessly say when I smell his mixture of cologne and sweat.
โAny time. Have a good day, Ivy. Enjoy your fictional men,โ he teases.
โOh, I will. Enjoy watching horses have sex.โ I slide into my seat, carefully setting the food on the passenger side. He chuckles, then closes my door. Before walking away, he gives me a quick glance, then heads to his truck. My eyes are glued to his ass and how he confidently strides across the parking lot. Iโm sure I look like a love-sick puppy right now.ย
I crank the engine, then back out. My heart pounds, and I know my cheeks are flushed. On the way to Hadleighโs, I try to calm down so I donโt look suspicious of anything. My sister can usually see straight through me.
As soon as I walk up to her house, the door swings open.ย
โDamn. You look cute today,โ she says.ย
โReally?โย
โYes, maโam. Might wanna start carrying a stick around to beat those ranch hands off ya.โย
I set the food down on the breakfast bar, and Hadleigh grabs a fork.ย
โI need one too, please. I got some extra cake.โ
โYouโre eating cake for lunch? You havinโ a bad day or something?โ she taunts.
I snicker and shake my head. โNo, I already ate, but I couldnโt pass up that icing.โย
She laughs, handing me the utensil, then I open the box and dig in.ย
โUgh, this is amazing,โ she says around a mouthful of mashed potatoes.ย
โYeah, this cake is orgasmic,โ I blurt out. Just as she cuts into her chicken, I hear Hendrixโs little cries in his bassinet.ย
โIโve got him.โ I stand, then go pick him up.ย
โThank you.โย
I hold him against my chest and whisper sweet things while I rock us back and forth in the chair. Within minutes, heโs back asleep.ย
โWait, are you a baby whisperer?โ she asks quietly.
I snort with a shrug. โMaybe itโs one of my superpowers. Do you think heโs hungry?โ
โNot yet. I fed him about an hour ago.โ
โDid you notice his onesie?โ Hadleigh asks.ย
I carefully reposition him so I can see it.ย
My aunt Ivy is my number one fan. โOh my God, this is adorable! Wait, did you make this?โ
โI was practicing with my new vinyl cutter. Gotta keep my mind busy before I go crazy.โ
I canโt stop smiling. โItโs perfect. And true. Hell, you might be a pro by the time you go back to work.โ
โIf I go backโฆโ Her words linger.ย
โAre you thinkinโ about quitting?โย
She shrugs with a somber look. โIโm already on part-time hours. Itโs just gonna be difficult being an hour away from Hendrix each day. I guess I really didnโt think this through.โ
โYouโll figure it out, Hads. You always do. Just enjoy your time off the best you can.โย
โNow you sound like Mom.โ Hadleigh sighs. โSo what are your plans this summer?โ
โTo read, work, and lose my virginity.โ
Hadleigh nearly chokes on a green bean.ย
โI was kiddinโ about the last one,โ I quickly add.
โYou almost gave me a heart attack.โ She swallows hard.ย
โI canโt keep my V-card forever. Itโs bound to happen at some point. I swear, right now, Iโm the nun of Eldorado.โ
โNuns donโt have sex toys,โ Hadleigh reminds me.ย
โNo, butโฆโ
โI donโt wanna know what youโre about to say. You read so much, and I can never predict whatโs gonna come out of your mouth.โ
Hendrixโs head slightly bounces as I giggle, and he fusses. It makes me feel guilty that Iโve woken him again. โI was just gonna sayโฆbut they still have their fingers.โ
She bursts into laughter. โYouโre gonna make me blush.โ
I clear my throat. โExcuse me. Iโm pretty sure you know what youโre doing, considering Iโm holding your love child. This kid wasnโt delivered by a stork.โย
A mischievous grin slides across my sister’s lips. โYouโre right about that.โ
โBut yeah, Iโll be working a lot. Harper gave me a rundown on everything we need to do, and there just isnโt enough time in the day. Sheโs talked about hiring someone part-time, but I told her Iโd stay as late as I need to help her catch up. I think we can handle it. Itโs just going to take extra hours at the shop.โ
โOh good. If you stay late and get too tired to drive home, my couch is always available.โ
โThanks, sis.โ
โI hope after everything settles down and Iโve figured out my new normal and what Iโm going to do about my job, I can start helping yโall again.โ
โThatโd be awesome. Iโm actually excited about working more because my paychecks will be amazing with all the extra hours.โ
โThatโs a plus!โย
Hendrix eventually settles down and falls back to sleep. Hadleigh finishes eating her lunch, then takes a bite of cake. โOkay, youโre right about this.โ
โI wasnโt exaggerating. Oh yeah, Kane told me to tell you hi.โ
โReally? What was he up to?โ
โNothinโ just eatinโ lunch at the B&B.โ I donโt tell her that we ate together. Itโs something I want to keep to myself for a little while though Iโm sure sheโll find out because there are no secrets on this ranch.ย
โWas Raelyn with him?โย
I meet her gaze. โNo, he was alone.โ
โGotcha. Sometimes on her days off, sheโll meet him for lunch.โ
โOh, okay.โ I donโt want to discuss that witch right now.ย
My sister thankfully continues. โHe owes me a visit. Heโs been so busy lately with the shop and his girlfriend that time slips by. But then again, I also understand weโre growing up, and things are different.โ
โYeah, totally. He did mention he was letting you catch up on rest. Weโd all be over here every day bugging you, but no one wants to overstep. Thatโs my biggest worry.โย
โAw, youโre not. Ever. Youโre always invited over because I enjoy hanging out with you.โ
โIโm gonna hold ya to that.โ
โI hope you do. Eventually, youโre gonna be too busy for me too.โ
โNow who sounds like Mom?โ I snicker.ย
โGuilty,โ she tells me. โGuilty as charged.โ
After an hour passes, Hadleigh lets me feed Hendrix while we watch a few episodes of Impractical Jokers. When I check the time, itโs nearly three in the afternoon. Eventually, we say our goodbyes. I thank her for allowing me to come over, and then I head home.ย
As I pass the B&B, I check to see if Kaneโs truck is there, but when itโs not, I keep going. My real goal this summer is to help him realize whatโs always been right in front of him, waitingโme.
CHAPTER FOUR
KANE
I canโt believe itโs already peak summertime. However, considering how goddamn hot it is outside, I can. It feels like this year is passing by so quickly. Another sign that Iโm getting older.ย
Of course, itโs Monday, and our day has been jam-packed. Iโve already had three mares picked up this morning, and this afternoon, weโll receive three more. Knox has returned to full-time hours, and he occasionally leaves to help Hadleigh if she needs anything.ย
Once things settle down and I can breathe again, Payton and I head to the B&B for lunch. I look for Ivy, hoping to run into her again, but unfortunately, sheโs nowhere in sight.ย
For the past few nights, sheโs shown up in my dreams. I guess theyโd actually be considered fantasies. Since we talked a few weeks ago, I havenโt been able to stop thinking about her. Sheโs consumed my thoughts, and I find myself wanting to get to know her better. It makes me feel guilty because I have a girlfriend, but itโs not like that. Iโd never cheat on Raelyn, not in a million years, and especially not because of a platonic infatuation.
But itโs proof that I always tend to want what I canโt have.ย
Hadleigh would cut off my balls if she knew half the things Iโve thought about her little sister. While Ivy isnโt a kid anymore and is old enough to make her own decisions, my best friend is overprotective when it comes to her.ย
โYou searchinโ for someone?โ Payton asks, noticing my eyes scanning the room.ย
โNah, just seeinโ whoโs all here.โ
His expression tells me heโs not buying it, but he doesnโt press any further.ย
I had such a good time chatting with Ivy and learning about the things she likes, and I selfishly want to do it again. While we were eating, I wanted to ask her what she was going to say at the hospital, but my nerves got the best of me. Although itโs been bothering me for nearly a month, I chickened out at the last minute.ย
The way she looks directly into my eyes when I speak drives me absolutely fucking wild. Sheโs quiet, but Iโve learned those are the ones you have to watch out for.ย
Ivyโs been a bookworm for as long as I can remember, and I think itโs awesome she still is. A million questions flip through my mind, and Iโm intrigued to learn more.ย
โDid you hear me?โ Payton asks as he takes a bite of his macaroni and cheese.ย
I shake my head. โSorry, whatโd you say?โ
Payton slowly shakes his head at me. โI need a day off next week so I can go to my dentist appointment.โย
โShould be fine. If you need a tooth extracted or anything, ya know weโve got some pliers thatโll do the trick.โ
โHard fuckinโ pass. Iโd never be desperate enough to let any of you near my mouth with or without tools. I ainโt stupid,โ Payton tells me.
โGood answer,โ Riley mutters from behind us as he sets his plate down on the table. Of course, his sidekick, Diesel, follows him.ย
โHowโs work goinโ?โ Riley asks, shoving half a roll in his mouth.ย
โBusy as hell. But Iโm not complaining. I like what Iโm doinโ at least,โ I tell him.ย
โBeing a ranch hand bitch were the good ole days, though,โ Diesel interjects. โWe used to get into so much trouble. Honestly, Iโm surprised weโre still alive.โ
I laugh, thinking about all the shit we used to get into when we werenโt being watched like hawks by our uncles. โYeah, thatโs true. But I donโt have any complaints.โย
Ethan walks up to our table, and before he sits, I notice heโs covered from head to toe in dirt.
โDonโt even ask,โ he says sternly before anyone can speak.ย
I lean forward. โYou know weโre going to hound you until you tell us.โ
โYeah, well, I ainโt in the mood to talk about it.โย
I donโt push him any further, but it doesnโt stop Diesel from asking every few minutes.ย
โShut the fuck up,โ Ethan snaps, picking up his cornbread and throwing it at Dieselโs head. It bounces off and lands on the floor with a thud. Seconds later, my uncle John comes from around the corner wearing a scowl.ย
โDo it again, and Iโm kickinโ you all out,โ he warns, looking directly at me.ย
โI didnโt do anything,โ I explain. โIโm just sitting here tryinโ to peacefully eat my lunch.โ
โThen I guess that means youโre guilty by association.โ His eyes scan across the table, daring us to push him, but weโre so quiet a needle could drop, and weโd hear it. When my uncle turns his back to return to his office, I see a smirk playing on his lips in the reflection of one of the pictures on the wall.ย
โYouโre chickenshit,โ Diesel tells Ethan.ย
โBetter than beinโ a dipshit.โ
โOkay, okay,โ Payton interrupts. โCan we at least try to get along today?โ
All I can do is chuckle. โWhy are you always the mediator?โ
โBecause yโall are a bunch of damn fools with too much testosterone.โ
This makes Ethanโs face splits into a smile, and we finish eating without arguing. Even Diesel gives him a break.
โYouโre gonna tell us, though, right?โ Diesel says as we pick up our dirty dishes and put them away.
โFuck no,โ he mutters. Payton and I tell everyone goodbye, then we hop in the truck and head back to the stud farm.
On the way back, Payton cracks up laughing.ย
โWhat?โ I ask.ย
โYou know what happened to Ethan?โย
I shake my head.
โKaitlyn put boobie traps around his shop, and he has no idea who did it. Apparently, he had a meeting with every single one of his employees today and wanted someone to confess. None of them did.โย
โDamn. Unfortunately for him, I know sheโs not done.โย
โNot in the slightest. They shouldโve never put her truck on blocks,โ he says.
โYouโre right because she will spend the rest of the summer fucking them up.โ
We have a good laugh because my sister is just getting started.
The rest of the afternoon goes by so fast, I can barely believe it when Paytonโs filling buckets with grain for the evening feeding. Once this is done, we can both leave, so I help out to make it go faster. As Iโm walking to the stalls at the end, my phone vibrates in my pocket.
Raelyn: Can you call me when you get home?
I check the time and respond.ย
Kane: Sure, should be within the hour.
Raelyn: Perfect!
After we finish our task, I tell Payton bye, then lock the office. One good thing about summer is it gets dark later, so thereโs no need to work against the clock. I get in my truck, roll down the windows to take in the warm air, and head home.
When I walk inside my house, I kick off my boots, then call Raelyn as I promised.ย
โHey,โ she says. Light music plays in the background.ย
โHey, Rae. You still cominโ over Friday?โ I ask with a smile, looking forward to spending some time with her since sheโs off.ย
โActuallyโฆโ she lingers.
I swallow, anticipating some bad news.ย
โI wanted to chat with you about that. Some college friends invited me to hang out with them in Houston this weekend.โย
โOh. What are yโall planninโ on doing there?โ
โWeโre supposed to go clubbing. Relive our heydays,โ she explains.
โAlright,โ I deadpan.
โIs there something wrong with that?โ
I suck in a deep breath, not wanting to argue with her, but Iโm frustrated as hell. โWe made plans to see each other this weekend since you had off. Itโs not a big deal, though, so do whatever will make you happy.โ We compared our schedules a month ago, and sheโs known since then.
โIโm sorry, I honestly donโt remember that.โ
That fucking hurts.ย
She continues, โMy friends messaged me a few days ago, and I already committed to driving out there Friday morninโ, then weโre gonna do a pub crawl that night. Iโm sorry, baby. I wouldnโt have agreed to it if I’d remembered our plans.โ
โItโs fine.โ
โThanks for understanding. Iโll make it up to you. I promise.โย
Her response is the exact opposite of what I want to hear, so I wait for her to say something else. If she doesnโt want to hang out with me and would rather be with her friends, thatโs fine. I wonโt beg her, but Iโm actually hurt that she forgot. Iโm not a priority in her life, and she doesnโt seem to notice or even see an issue. I canโt be bribed like a kid who didnโt get an ice cream cone as promised. The thought of it annoys me.
โOh, thereโs something else I wanted to talk to you about, but we can discuss it later. You sound tired.โ
โCan you just tell me now? I donโt wanna obsess about what it is for the rest of the night. If you can mention it, you can spill it.โ I donโt like being held on a line like bait.ย
โWellโฆโ She lets out a drawn-out sigh. โI didnโt want to have this conversation right now.โ
โItโs probably for the best if you go ahead and get it over with,โ I say with annoyance. โYou at least owe me that much since youโre canceling on me this weekend.โ
Thirty seconds pass without either of us saying a word, but it feels like an hour.ย
Eventually, she clears her throat. โWhat do you think about us having an open relationship?โ
My heart pounds so hard in my chest, I can hear it beating in my ears.ย
โWhat does that exactly entitle?โ I ask, wanting her to make it crystal clear what she means.ย
โAn open relationship, you know, like weโre still together, but we can also see other people at the same time. Since we donโt get to be together very much, itโd make sense to keep our options open.โ
I open my mouth, then close it, completely blindsided by this. She doesnโt have time for me now as it is, so I know she wouldnโt if she had a handful of other dudes at her beck and call.ย
Memories of Hadleigh fill my mind, and I remember how jealous I was thinking about her with another man. She dated my brother and me at the same time while she took time to figure out what she wanted, and although at that time I agreed to it, I learned that Iโm not cut out to share my girlfriends with anyone. Even though I knew deep down that Hadleigh wasnโt the woman for me, I canโt go through that agony again.ย
It brought out the absolute worst in me.
โNo, sorry. If weโre datinโ, then that means weโre exclusive. If that ainโt the case, then weโre just fuckbuddies. Iโve told you before that Iโm not lookinโ for that kinda relationship, and Iโm still not.โย
โI know you did, but it could be really fun for both of us, Kane. Weโd still be together, but thereโd be no cheating if either of us wanted to see someone else on the side,โ she explains as if I donโt know how this shit works. I thought what I said made it obvious that Iโm not willing to share. Guess not.
โNot happeninโ, Raelyn. Iโm not interested in fucking around, and I donโt want the person Iโm dating to have that option either,โ I say sternly, growing more irritated with each passing minute.ย
โI understand.โ She sounds defeated, like she truly thought Iโd be into this idea.ย
No woman will force me to cross my boundaries like that, especially her. The fact that she even asked doesnโt settle well with me. It makes me question our relationship even more. We donโt live in the same town, sheโs always working, and when she isnโt, sheโs hanging out with someone other than me. For all I know, sheโs already seeing other guys.
โI was only offering the option because I donโt want to hold you back in any way. Iโm the one whoโs too busy to hang out, and I feel guilty that I canโt give you more time and attention. But if youโre fine with how things are right now and seeing me sporadically, then I am too.โ
โOkay.โ That is all I can say.ย
โAre you going to be up for a while?โ
โNah, I think Iโm gonna take a shower, then go to bed. Iโve had a long day.โ Itโs not lost on me how quickly she changed the subject.ย
โOh okay. Iโll text you tomorrow. Good night.โ
โNight.โ
After the call ends, I lean my head back on the cushion and stare at the ceiling. This is the first time weโve disagreed on something, and I donโt like the way it makes me feel.ย
While I want to trust Raelyn, part of me knows sheโll do whatever she wants regardless of whether I agree. Thereโs no way Iโd ever find out if she did cheat, and considering she mentioned this right after telling me sheโs going clubbing in a big city leaves me even more concerned.ย
At this point, I donโt know what to do and need time to think.ย
Maybe itโs a good thing she wonโt be here this weekend.ย
The last time I saw her was at the hospital when Hendrix was born. I havenโt found it to be an issue that we donโt get together that often, but maybe it is. We text and chat often and have had phone sex a few times over the past few weeks.ย
My thoughts are all over the place. I donโt want to hold her back if she wants to be with other people. If all the signs point to this not working out between us, why am I so dead set on staying with her? Thatโs the question I need to figure out the answer to. Iโll give her a chance to prove herself, even if my heart is weary.
Since my chat with Raelyn earlier this week, things have been distant between us. Weโve texted back and forth a few times, but she hasnโt offered to call me, and I don’t have anything to say. Weโre in a weird limbo right now, but it could just be me. Iโm trying to shake off this feeling. Iโve reminded myself that one disagreement doesnโt mean itโs over, at least not yet.ย
But if I ever find out sheโs cheated, I will break up with her without a second thought. She knows exactly where I stand.
After my shift, I go home and take a shower. I couldnโt stand the way I smelled and needed to wash the sweat off my body. When I step out and dry off, I slip on some joggers, then go to the kitchen where my leather working supplies are laid out. I do some research online about hand binding paper because Iโd eventually like to start making my own journals too. Before I get too lost in a rabbit hole, I check the time and call it a night. Itโs nearly nine, and Iโm actually pretty exhausted after the day Iโve had.ย
Just as Iโm turning off the dining room lights, thereโs a light knock on the door. Confused, I move forward and look through the peephole to see Ivy standing there. Loose strands of hair have fallen out of her ponytail, and she nervously tucks the corner of her bottom lip inside her mouth as she waits for me to answer. A lump forms in my throat as I admire her under the glow of my porch light. Before she knocks again, I undo the deadbolt and turn the knob.ย
โThank God youโre home,โ she says breathlessly.ย
โPrayers answered.โ I laugh, surprised but also very happy to see her. โEverything okay?โย
Her eyes wander up my pants and trail their way to my mouth. She unapologetically drinks me in, and I actually like the heat in her gaze. It has me smirking as I cross my arms over my chest, waiting for her to speak.ย
โMy car wonโt start,โ she explains.ย
โDid you walk here in the dark from the warehouse?โ I ask, stepping outside and looking around to see if sheโs alone.ย
โYes, but itโs fine. Itโs not that far, and I had the flashlight on my phone if anyone was driving down the road. Honestly, I walked without it, though. Vega was too gorgeous.โ
โOh, so you know your night sky?โ
โI know a few of the summer and winter constellations and of course, which star is Polaris, so Iโll always know north.โ
I tilt my head at her and grin. โThatโs awesome. Come on in. Sorry. Guess I lost my manners.โ
โThought youโd never ask,โ she says, walking past me smelling like sugar and spice. I can only imagine what scent soap is on her skin, but it reminds me of fall.
โDo you want me to look at it now?โ I ask, reaching for my keys. โI really donโt mind.โ
โNo, thatโs okay. You look showered and like youโre gettinโ ready for bed. We might need some jumper cables, but Iโm not sure if itโs the battery or something else. Right now, I kinda donโt care about it that much.โ She lets out a yawn, and I can tell sheโs just as tired as I am. She and Harper have been working really hard lately trying to fulfill all the orders. Ethan gave me all the details at lunch yesterday.ย
โYou can crash on my couch if you want, or Iโll be happy to take you home,โ I offer.ย
โYour couch actually sounds great. Iโm exhausted, and I have to work early in the morning. Probably just call roadside service to come down and help me with it in the morninโ,โ Ivy explains. โThatโs what I pay them for each month.โย
โWhatever youโd like.โ I grab a few extra blankets and a pillow for her.
She meets my eyes as I hand them to her. โDo you happen to have a T-shirt or something I can borrow to sleep in?โย
โAbsolutely.โ Right now, Iโm so damn tempted to kiss her pouty lips because sheโs like a magnet, pulling me closer to her every chance she gets. I force myself to take a step back and create some space between us.ย
โThanks, Kane. Iโm so happy you were up.โย
I grin, then walk away, knowing her eyes are on me as I go to my bedroom.ย
My quickened pulse gives away my excitement of her standing in my living room. I canโt believe sheโs here. Ivy acted like her prayers were answered, but damn, I feel like mine were.ย
No woman has ever made me feel this way, and Iโm not sure how to react. I want and need to know everything about Ivy Callawayโher likes, dislikes, fantasies, and dirty secrets.ย
I meet her in the living room, exactly where I left her. I give her a shirt I won at the rodeo a few years back when I barrel raced one of Kaitlynโs horses. It was the runner-up prize, even if Iโm still convinced it was rigged.ย
Without saying anything, she peels the orange tank top off her body. My eyes graze over her beautiful breasts nearly falling out of her hot pink bra. I turn my head, needing to be the perfect gentleman as she slips on my shirt.ย
I hear her shoes plop to the floor and her shimmying out of her shorts. Once the movement stops, I turn and meet her eyes.
โDo you need anything else?โ I help her spread the quilt out over the couch as she positions the pillow at one end. Ivy crawls under the blankets and looks up at me with hooded eyes.ย
โNah, I think Iโm good,โ she says with airiness in her tone. โYour couch is comfy and smells like you.โ
I swallow hard and smile as the intense urge to be around her nearly consumes me. The conversations we have and the things she says always hit me on a personal level, even if itโs everyday things. While I want to be around her, I know weโre both exhausted.ย
โGood night, Ivy. Sweet dreams.โ
โNight, Kane.โย
I turn off the kitchen light and walk to my bedroom, tormented by the fact that the woman haunting my dreams is here in the flesh. If she were any other woman and I were any other man, Iโd have kissed her right in my living room. Iโd have given her compliments and told her how damn pretty she is, but instead, I said nothing at all.
The fact that she commented on how I smell has my dick twitching with anticipation. I lie down and close my eyes as images of Ivyโs beautiful breasts fill my mind. Reaching under the covers, I roughly grab my cock and stroke myself to thoughts of her. The orgasm builds so damn quickly that it rips through me like a category five hurricane. Guttural grunts slip out as I come harder than I have in my life, and the woman to blame is my best friendโs little sister.