by Tessa Bailey
“Okay, I understand that. Just please take care of yourself. Promise me.” She sounds worried, and I hate that I can’t tell her the whole truth. I trust my sister, but I don’t trust that my parents couldn’t get the info out of her.
“I’m having the time of my life, and I’ve never been happier.”
She laughs. “Well as long as you’re happy, that’s all that matters. And that you’re coming home soon. We miss you.”
“I miss you too,” I tell her before we say our goodbyes. I change into a sundress, then collapse on the bed and close my eyes. Hours later, I’m woken up by the sound of my phone vibrating and see it’s a text from Riley, telling me he’s making dinner and to come over in thirty.
I get up and look out the window and see the sun has made its way across the sky. When I check the time, it’s nearly five.
Pulling my hair into a messy bun, I slip on some flip-flops and hop in my car. I haven’t driven anywhere in a couple of weeks since Riley usually drives. When I pull up to his house, it looks like every light is on, and knowing he’s planned something for us tonight makes me smile. Instead of knocking, I walk straight into the kitchen and see him adding shredded cheese to the top of a handmade pizza. I wrap my arms around his back, and he jumps, then turns around.
“Holy shit. I thought you were Diesel,” he barks out with a laugh.
“Is that how he normally greets you?” I snort, arching a suspicious brow. “Do I have some competition?”
Riley pulls me into his arms, resting his back against the counter. “There’d never be anyone compared to you.” He buries his face in my neck. “You smell so fucking good.”
“You do too.” When he pulls back, I greedily press my lips against his, wanting all of him.
“Whoa, baby. Keep that up, and this pizza won’t make it into the oven.”
I giggle, shrugging. “I bet you’d taste better anyway.”
He growls at my comment, acting tortured. “You’re so beautiful,” he says, searching my face and running his gaze down my body. “I’m so fucking lucky.”
I kiss him again, never wanting this paradise to end. We eventually pull apart, and Riley slides the pizza into the oven. After he starts the timer, he pours us each a glass of wine. As I take a sip, I look at his twinkling blue eyes over the rim of the glass.
“So…” I begin, inhaling a deep breath to collect my thoughts. “I know I said I was staying for two weeks, but I’m thinking of extending my visit. If you’d be okay with that, of—”
“Abso-fucking-lutely,” he blurts out before I can finish.
When the words leave his lips, I feel as if I’m floating. The way he looks at me, treats me, kisses me—it’s everything I’ve ever wanted and needed. Life without Riley Bishop wouldn’t be worth living, and I had to make sure, though my heart already knew the answer. Once I make an official decision, my entire life will change. For the better.
Riley leads me to the living room, and we take a seat on the couch. “Next week is Independence Day. Grandma and Grandpa Bishop always have a party behind their house with a huge fireworks display. Everyone brings food, and we make a whole day out of it. Come with me.”
“That sounds like a blast. I’ve never really done anything on the Fourth of July,” I tell him, setting my wine glass on the coffee table, then I take his and put it next to mine to free his hands.
“I’m so fucking glad you’re staying longer,” he says with a wide grin.
I take the opportunity to straddle his lap, and when I grind my hips down on him, I feel his hard length. I move forward and capture his lips with mine, wrapping my arms around his neck and rocking my body against his. I need this man like I need air, and the only thing that stops us from continuing is the timer beeping in the kitchen.
“Let the motherfucker burn,” Riley whispers against my lips, his palms cupping my ass and pulling me closer.
I let out a laugh. “But I’m starving,” I say, my head dizzy from him.
“I’m starving too…for you, but shit, I don’t want to set the place on fire.” He lets out a frustrated growl as I crawl off him. Standing, he adjusts himself, and I giggle at his scowl. I follow him into the kitchen, and he removes the pizza from the oven, the edges already dark and crisp.
“This is your fault,” he says with a smirk.
“It’s just a little burnt,” I tease.
“I was talking about this.” He cups his dick through his jeans, and I laugh, knowing I’m feeling just as sexually frustrated. However, it’s probably a good thing we stopped ourselves since we’re using this time to get to know each other better. Regardless of how tempting it is.
Riley Bishop’s the whole package, and he’s mine.
Chapter Fifteen
Riley
Today’s the family’s big Fourth of July party, and I’m so excited Zoey decided to stay longer so she wouldn’t miss it. These past few weeks have been some of the best of my life, and I want her here permanently. Ever since last weekend, when she said she wasn’t leaving just yet, I’ve been toying with the idea of telling her how I really feel. If she’s willing to take the risk, then so am I. Confessing that I’ve fallen in love with her might be what she needs to hear to solidify our relationship.
Every morning when I wake up, I’m grateful, but now I have more to look forward to. I love seeing Zoey randomly throughout my day and meeting up with her when I’m able. The way she’s bonded with my cousins and has grown closer to everyone confirms us being together is right.
When we hung out last Saturday, things heated up between us as they typically do, but this time, we almost didn’t stop. The truth is, I’m ready to be one-hundred percent married to her and move her into my house. I want to wake up with her every morning and fall asleep with her in my arms. It’s all I think about, and tonight, I’m more determined than ever to tell her. Even if I’m risking my heart, I need to lay it all out there.
Diesel and I are up earlier than normal to get a head start since we’ll be cutting our workday short. Though we’ll be helping with the party and fireworks, the animals still need to be fed and watered.
“You ready to blow shit up tonight?” Diesel taunts as we make our way back to the shop and wrap everything up for the day. “I overheard Rowan is bringing a guy. You ready for that?”
I snap my head toward him, brows furrowed in confusion. This is news to me. “Who? What guy?”
Rowan’s twenty and plenty old enough to date, but it doesn’t mean I want her to. Most guys around here are idiots and will never be good enough for my little sister.
“I don’t know; some dude she met at the bar. Told you it was a bad idea for her to work there,” he huffs, and I can’t tell if he’s genuinely concerned about it or just jealous. My guess is on the latter, but I know every person in this town, so he better be a decent guy, or he’s going to be meeting my fist.
“So I guess that means you’ll be taking it out on the fireworks tonight?” I snicker, opening up the shop door and walking in.
Fisher’s in the office, organizing the desk. “Done already?” he asks, then looks up.
“Yep,” I answer.
“Because we fuckin’ rock,” Diesel adds. “Gotta get ready for the party.”
“Is it gonna be a problem that I come tonight?” Fisher asks me, but then his gaze goes to Diesel.
“No, why would it?” I ask, then walk to the fridge for a water.
“Well, I’d be bringing Gretchen. But if it’s gonna be a problem, then I won’t.” Fisher crosses his arms over his chest, but he’s not being a dick about it. He’s asking because he’s honestly trying not to cause issues, so I respect that.
“D?” I ask, tilting my chin at him. “You gonna be on your best behavior later, or am I gonna have to kick my best friend’s drunk ass afterward?”
He scoffs, stealing the bottle from my grip. “Like you could.” He unscrews the top and gulps half of it down, then turns to Fisher. “Yeah, man, it’s fine. I won’t say anyt
hing.”
My brows rise, impressed by how mature he’s being. “Good man, Diesel.” I pat his shoulder, yanking my water back. “But that doesn’t mean you can fuck up whoever Rowan’s bringing.”
Diesel points at me, his eyes narrowed. “Now that I didn’t agree to.”
I roll my eyes and wave to Fisher, telling him we’ll see him later. Diesel and I head to my truck and drive home to shower and clean up before the party.
While I wait for Diesel’s slow ass to get out of the shower, I sit on the couch and take out my phone.
Riley: You excited to see some real fireworks tonight?
Zoey: I sure am, cowboy, though I’ve been feeling sparks for weeks ;)
Riley: Are you hittin’ on me, wife?
Zoey: Maybe. What if I am?
Riley: I’d say don’t bother wearing any clothes tonight.
Zoey: Are all cowboys as dirty as you?
Riley: I wouldn’t know…but this one…is only for you.
Zoey: I like that your grandmother thinks I’m a sweet, innocent angel. She even told me yesterday when I was helping her bake for today. I’d hate to tarnish that image.
Riley: What my grandma doesn’t know won’t kill her. It’ll be our little secret :)
Zoey: You’re relentless…
Riley: It’s your fault. Stop looking sexy as hell and eye-fucking me every time you see me.
Zoey: Oh do I? Sorry, that was meant for Diesel. My bad.
I growl even though she can’t hear me and send her an unamused emoji face. Immediately, I get a laughing emoji, then two red hearts.
Riley: I’ll kill him.
Zoey: Turtlenecks and sweatpants from now on. Don’t go murdering anyone.
Riley: Doesn’t matter what you wear. I’ll be picturing you naked either way.
Zoey: OMG…you are naughty.
Riley: I am…you should spank me.
Zoey: LOL… I’m done with you. BYE.
“You gonna shower, or are ya just gonna sit there with a dumb grin on your face?” Diesel asks as he walks into the living room fully dressed.
“Yeah, might be an extra-long one, though.” I chuckle, sliding my phone into my pocket.
“Is this where you tell me to get lost tonight?” He deadpans. “Go find somewhere else to stay?”
“Yep,” I say, smiling. “Pack your bag and get the fuck out.”
“You could at least have some damn manners, asshole!” he shouts as I make my way down the hallway.
“Pack your bag and get the fuck out, please,” I repeat.
Less than an hour later, I’m ready, but Diesel drove himself. I feel a tad guilty for kicking him out of his own place, but there’s plenty of room at the ranch hand quarters. Plus, if Zoey does stay permanently, he’d have to move out anyway. I wouldn’t have my wife move in here with Diesel as our roommate if we’re trying to give our marriage a real shot. He’ll be all right, though I’m certain he already knows things between Zoey and me are serious.
I lock the house, then walk out to my truck. Before driving off, I send Zoey a text.
Riley: Meet me at the horse barn in five.
Zoey: What are you up to?
Riley: You’ll see.
After parking by the B&B, I walk over to the horses and am getting their saddles ready when Zoey enters, looking sexier than usual. Though that’s not really possible because she always looks amazing.
Her golden hair is curled into soft waves and pulled up halfway. Though she usually wears a more natural look, I notice her eyes are darker, and her lipstick is brighter.
“Lookin’ quite fancy for a barbecue…” I say, grabbing her hand. Taking a step back, I purposely trail my eyes up and down her body. “Are you tryin’ to kill me or something?”
She chuckles, closing the gap between us. “Can’t a wife look good for her husband?”
I swallow hard, loving the way that sounds coming from her. “Baby, you always look good.”
“So why are we in here?” she asks after I press a kiss to her lips. “Isn’t the party at your grandma’s?”
“Yep, and we’re going in style.”
“On the horses?”
“Yeah, we’ll bring them back before the fireworks show so they don’t get spooked, but this way, we can have a fun ride there. Ready?” I ask, then finish tightening the cinch on the saddle.
“As long as the horse doesn’t try to kill me again.” She deadpans. Her expression makes me laugh.
“If you’re gonna live on a ranch, you gotta learn to ride, sweetheart,” I say, studying her face.
She inhales a deep breath, then nods. “Okay, fine. But I’m keeping my eye on you, Sunshine.” She pets the horse’s nose before I help lift her up. After I make sure she’s settled and secure, I jump on Gable and lead us out.
“Are you sweatin’ yet?” I tease as we ride to the main house.
“I’ve been sweating since the second I arrived.”
I laugh at her dramatic eye roll. “Well, that’s why you need a hat.”
“Pretty sure it’d mess up my hair,” she taunts, keeping her horse steady with mine.
“What happened to you being all adventurous and livin’ life on the edge?” I pop a brow at her, grinning.
“I’m a hairstylist…” she reminds me. “Messy hair is a hard limit.”
That causes me to bellow out a laugh. “No one cares about hair here, baby. I’m buying you a hat tomorrow.”
“Can it at least be a pretty color?”
Shaking my head, I bite down on my lip to keep from laughing at her again. “You’ve been here for almost three weeks. Have I taught you nothing?”
“Just because I don’t dress like a Texan doesn’t mean I can’t have the spirit of one,” she tells me matter-of-factly, and before I can respond, Zoey’s digging her heels into Sunshine who bolts into a full gallop.
For a split second, I panic, but then she quickly looks over her shoulder and flashes me a smirk.
There’s my adventurous girl.
I kick Gable and rush after her. When I finally catch up, she’s laughing and smiling so wide, and it causes me to do the same.
“What the hell was that?” I ask once we both slow down.
“I’ve been taking some lessons,” she admits shyly.
“You have?” My jaw drops. “When?”
“While you’re at work. I didn’t want to embarrass myself again,” she confesses. “But I also really wanted to see the shock on your face, like right now.” She chuckles.
“Uh yeah, considered me shocked as hell. I can’t believe you did that.” I reach and pull her reins until she’s close enough for me to touch. Cupping her face, I bring our lips together, tasting her sweetness as she hums against me. “So which bastard gave you lessons behind my back?”
Zoey laughs, pushing against my chest. “I promised I wouldn’t rat him out.”
“Him?” I raise my brows.
“Calm down, cowboy. He only touched my ass twice, and once was an accident.”
My jaw tightens as I narrow my eyes at her. “Not funny, woman.”
Zoey is the only woman I’ve ever felt possessive over, and I’m quite sure she knows it too with the way she taunts me.
“Was it Fisher?” I ask when she repositions herself upright on the saddle, creating space between us. When she doesn’t answer, I keep asking. “I doubt it was Diesel; he’d tell me. In fact, he’d brag about it, so it can’t be him. One of my uncles? My grandfather?” He’s in his sixties and still rides, but he’s been pretty quiet, not giving an opinion about the marriage.
Zoey picks up her speed, making me chase after her. “Are you really not gonna tell me?”
She smirks, staying silent. Dammit.
“Colton?” I ask, then feel dumb for not guessing him first, considering he’s the one who gives lessons here. She turns toward me with a grin and shrugs. “I’m gonna kill him.”
She chuckles and shakes her head. “He was a complete gentleman. His wife even
took some pictures for me so I could show my sister. Summer nearly choked when I sent them.”
“So Colton and Presley knew? But I didn’t?” His wife’s a photographer, so it makes sense.
“It was a surprise!”
“Do I get to see these pictures?” I ask as we approach our stop.
“Maybe. If you stop being a baby.” The corner of her lips tilts up.
I glower at her. “So you’d be okay with me getting my haircut by the stylist in town? Mary Sue is very flirty.”
“Mary Sue?” She snorts loudly. “I’m guessing she’s at least sixty and has been cutting your hair since you were a toddler. And you had to be held down because you were a wild child, amiright?”
“I’m gonna kill my mother for telling you that story.” I grunt because she already knew the details.
“Actually, it was Rowan.” She throws her head back and laughs.
I groan. Too many women in my family love to gossip.
We tie up the horses and walk hand in hand to the large backyard where picnic tables are set up. Grandma always invites half the town, which means a lot of food and people. Zoey immediately walks up and strikes up a conversation with everyone. She fits in so well; it’s as if she’s lived here all her life.
I leave Zoey with my mom and cousins while I help my uncles and Diesel set up the fireworks. They buy thousands of dollars’ worth every year, and this time is no different. A huge trailer is packed with all different types and sizes. Most of them aren’t legal, but out here in the middle of nowhere, it isn’t an issue. The sheriff and his wife come too.
Once it’s time to eat, I return and sit with Zoey, who’s talking to Rowan and some guy I don’t know.
“Who’s this?” I ask, setting a plateful of food in front of me.
“Trace,” Rowan answers happily. “He just moved here from Missouri. His parents are friends with the Cottons, and he’s living with them until he gets his own place. His job transferred him to San Angelo.”
“How old are you?” I ask before taking a bite of my burger. My dad mans the grill each year and does a kick-ass job on the meat.