by Harloe Rae
Her ears perk up, tongue lolling out with loud pants.
“Just the two of us. We won’t be seeing Keegan or Millie again,” I add for no reason other than extra accountability on my part. It’s not as if my dog knows what I’m talking about. Taking a swim on a hot day is good no matter who’s tagging along.
Patch blinks at me, remaining oddly still. After another moment of staring, she yawns and slowly rises to her feet. A long stretch follows. She trots off toward the woods without another huff or bark.
“Figures you’d take her side,” I mutter.
And here I am, talking to a dog. Maybe this weird desire to change my ways is from a lack of human interaction in general. Keegan is the first person I’ve wanted to have a conversation with that wasn’t related to motorcycles or work. I’m too chicken shit to admit the truth—I enjoy Keegan’s company, along with Millie. But I have a hard time believing anyone would balk at having that little girl nearby. Maybe the pint-size kiddo will take me up on my offer to come back. That will give me an excuse to see Keegan again. Getting her to come back causes an erotic beat to pulse through my veins. Heat travels south faster than I can groan. I adjust the bulge in my jeans. What the fuck am I doing, giving shape to these fantasies? It will only lead to disappointment and blue balls.
I should go for a ride and clear this shit out of my head. The wind against me will be a damn nice reprieve, too. Even on days hotter than Hades, speeding across county lines is a relief. Lord knows the open road will settle the fight vibrating in my bones. Relying on anything other than my bike and business is pointless. The past has taught me that well enough. But having people around doesn’t have to be an undertaking. I’ve been an antisocial loner for most of my life. It’s easier for everyone if I keep to myself. The separation never bothered me. I’ve always preferred my privacy, until that fateful afternoon. This recent shift is crawling beneath my skin. The sudden urge prods at me without an avenue for escape.
Once again, as if compelled, Keegan’s stunning face pops into my mind, hypnotic green eyes glittering like the rarest emeralds. Tan skin smooth enough to taunt the most stubborn soul. Fair features to match my darkest. She has me craving more…proximity. Not from just anyone, only a very certain blonde with a saucy bite to her tone will soothe the ache. Does Keegan reserve her fire just for me? Millie told me that her mother is sweet and kind. She doesn’t seem inclined to be overly friendly toward me. My abrasive personality has a lot to do with that, I’m sure.
Extinguishing the flames she feeds is necessary for my sanity. I’m in no position to pursue her, and that’s not going to change. Keegan has enough responsibility raising a daughter on her own. She doesn’t need the type of trouble I’d add to her plate. Staying away from her is the only solution, and that shouldn’t be too hard considering I’ve been avoiding people my entire life.
All of these dead-end desires are distracting me from what’s truly important. I drag over a socket set and get back to work. There’s a group of bikers from the outskirts of town who gather for monthly treks. These runs take a toll on their rides, really hardcore. I don’t complain about the influx of business. The damage they bring in is enough to pad my pockets for a season. Everything needs maintenance, from brake line to exhaust pipe, and all the parts in between.
I’m in the process of breaking down a flooded engine when the rumble of motors ripples through the woods. Another customer? I don’t have anyone on the books, and it’s not like they’re just passing by. Two vehicles roar up the drive, a familiar black and chrome Harley guides the way, followed closely by a red coupe. I wipe off my palms and stride toward the open garage entrance. This pair will provide a great distraction from my current clusterfuck.
Decker Fredric swings a leg off his bike, offering me a wave. “Hey, Ford.”
I lift my chin in greeting. “Deck.”
His fiancée steps out of her car. Delaney’s red hair sparkles in the baking sun. It’s still weird as fuck that she doesn’t remember anything prior to a year ago. But that’s none of my concern. She smiles my way. “Hi, Crawford.”
“Just Ford,” I remind her.
A ruby flush zips up her neck. “Gah, fine. Force me to be informal.”
I want to tell her we knew each other well enough once upon a time. Delaney has already heard enough of that, though. Instead, I motion them further into my oil-stained domain. “What brings you by?”
“Need an upgrade.” He signals to his custom chopper that most men would drool over.
I do my best not to recoil. “You just had it in a few weeks ago. Did I fuck something up?”
“Nah, not at all. My baby gives me nothing but smooth rides. She practically glides across the pavement.”
“Not this again,” Delaney huffs.
Decker leans into her. “Don’t be jealous, Dell. I love you most.”
She frowns, but there’s a twitch in her lips. “Sure about that?”
His arms band around her waist, hauling her into him. Their mouths clash into a seamless fusion of passion. Her hands claw at his hair. Decker’s palm splays across Delaney’s ass. And I feel like a fucking creeper for still standing here.
The heel of my boot slides on a puddle of oil, alerting the entangled couple of my attempted getaway. Decker clears this throat, and Delaney turns an even deeper shade of red.
“Sorry about that,” he mutters. “Can’t seem to help myself.”
I wouldn’t know the first thing about that feeling. “No problem.”
Decker scratches at his beard. “Speaking of, I heard you’ve been playing the hero lately. Good for you, man.”
Delaney gets a interested sparkle in her eye. “What’s going on?”
“Nothing,” I mutter.
“Not sure about that. Our buddy came to the rescue for a woman and her daughter. Twice.” He holds up two fingers to avoid confusion, waggling his brows.
If we were friends, I’d laugh off his assumption. As it stands, I let a glower shadow my expression. “It was no big deal.”
Delaney’s eyes ping-pong between us, eventually settling on Decker. “Why are you keeping juicy gossip to yourself? Who’s the lucky damsel?”
“Keegan Daniels,” he supplies.
“Oh my goodness, Keke is the sweetest. And her daughter is such a doll. Too bad she’s so quiet. Although, I’m such a chatterbox…maybe we level each other out. I won’t rest until Millie talks to me, at least once.” Her wide smile proves the strength behind those words.
Decker tugs on her belt loop. “Dell, she’s shy. Leave that little girl alone.”
“But she’s so cute. I want to braid her hair and make all the crafts together.”
I’m stunned silent, more than normal. A storm is rapidly thrashing in my chest. Millie mentioned not talking to people at school, but Delaney is probably a family friend, at least somewhat. I can’t keep the question from spilling out. “Do you know her well?”
Delaney tips her hand side to side. “Keegan? Eh, sorta. She designed a few covers for an author Sutton works with. Her graphics always stand out on social media. She’s really talented.”
Huh. Maybe we have something in common. Drawing freehand is one of my hobbies, when I get a chance. A portfolio comes in handy when customers request custom art on their bikes. But it’s mostly just for fun.
“Why do you ask? Digging for dirt, Ford?” Delaney wags her brows.
“Nope. Just curious.”
“Right, I almost believe you. When’s your first date with Keegan?”
I choke on my saliva. “Whoa, none of that.”
Delaney tips her head back and laughs. “That’s what all the good ones say.”
I quirk a brow at Decker. “Speaking from experience?”
He shrugs. “Don’t bother denying the inevitable, man. Sitting around, waiting for a third opportunity to arise is a waste of resources. Put yourself out there. Keegan and Millie landed in your direct path for a reason. Why not explore what that might be?”
Since when are these two in my corner with rooting rags? “You make it sound so simple.”
“Isn’t it?”
“Nah, not at all.” I don’t do relationships. I won’t even sign up for a gym membership, I’m so commitment phobic. The idea has never appealed to me. Still doesn’t. But having Keegan’s thighs wrapping around me while perching on the back of my bike is tempting as fuck. But that’s a dream for a very different day. “Let’s focus on the reason you’re here.”
Decker claps. “Fuck, yes. I almost forgot.”
Delaney bumps her hip into his. “That’s my job.”
“My queen requires a bigger throne.”
Delaney rolls her eyes, poking him in the arm. “The seat is tiny. My butt requires extra padding. Don’t make me sound like a spoiled brat.”
“Well,” he trails off. “If the glass slipper fits or whatever.”
“You’d be the one to know just how well it fits,” she purrs.
I was wrong. Being near Decker and Delaney is crossing into enemy lines, surrendering to those primal impulses. These two are only highlighting what I’m missing out on. Finding that special someone to love? Must be nice.
Their easy banter sends a stab of fiery longing into my gut. I’ve never had that type of effortless flow with a woman. Any attempts I make are disjointed and sloppy. I trap the bellow bubbling up and avert my gaze. The call to get out on the open highway has never screamed so loud. This conversation cannot wrap up fast enough so I can follow my impulses.
“More space for the lady. Got it.” Maybe I should take the hint and make room for a certain someone, too.
Healing Hug #8: For when the sparkle and shine wear off.
I yank at the hem of my dress, but the stretchy material immediately bounces back to indecent territory. The fabric ends mid-thigh and leaves me far too exposed. How did I let Josey talk me into this? An unladylike snort burns my nose. It’s my fault for setting loose guidelines, if any at all. I fell into her trap after mere moments inside Meadow Kisses. The chic boutique is a favorite of mine, but I’m questioning my taste as of late. Josey snagged this sparkly sequined abomination off the hanger faster than a set of Taylor Swift tickets.
She saw. She shopped. She conquered.
And here I stand, dressed for an occasion of bad decisions.
A chill slithers down my spine while I turn toward the mirror. Blonde hair spills over my bare shoulders in loose waves. My eyes are smoky thanks to a heavy layer of dark shadow. Lashes curled and coated. Smooth complexion with optimal highlighting. Rosy cheeks that blush can take partial responsibility for. I pucker up at my reflection, bright red gloss staining my lips. Considering my usual makeup routine consists of little more than applying mascara, the finished product isn’t half bad. This ridiculous ensemble I stuffed my body into is another story, though.
A high-pitch hum snags my attention. “Mama, you look so pretty.”
I do a twirl, one thousand percent for Millie’s benefit. “Thanks, baby girl.”
“You’re a very pretty princess,” she coos.
“And flattery will get you far, baby girl.” I stroke her silky cheek.
She smiles at me. “I’m glad you’re going out with Josey to have fun.”
“Did she tell you to say that?”
As if hearing her name, my bestie sways into the room as if a sultry tune is playing. The house is silent, aside from the rapid pounding of my heart. Once again, a heavy dose of doubt seeps into me. This is a horrible idea. I clear my throat, preparing to voice the list of reasons why we should stay home.
But when Josey sets her sights on me, a squeal peels off her lips. “Oh my stars, Keke. You’re a knockout. Did I tell you that dress would be a killer or what?”
“You certainly did. And I’m the lucky duck reaping the…benefits.” I give another useless tug to the hem.
She lets another squeak loose. “I’m so jealous of your figure. Check out your mama’s curves, Mills. She’s gonna drive the men wild.”
And it’s my turn to release a sharp screech. “Josephine! Don’t talk like that in front of her.” I turn toward Millie. “We’re just going out for dinner. No guys allowed.”
Her bottom lip pokes out. “Not even Ford?”
I snort out a laugh. “No way. Definitely not him.”
She cranks the pouting up a notch. “But Mama, he likes you.”
Is she serious? The suggestion alone baffles me. I squint at my daughter. “Honey, no. He doesn’t. And that’s okay. We’re thankful he helped us and that’s enough, right?”
Millie narrows her eyes in return. “But he teased you and was super grouchy. I thought that means he likes you? That’s what you always tell me when I cry about mean boys at school.”
Well, she has me there. My daughter is very clever, I’ll give her that. At least she’s been paying attention to me. But this is quite the predicament she’s put me in. I boop her nose. “Adults are different, sweetie.”
Josey snorts. “Yeah, right. Good one.”
I glare at her. “Hush. You’ve done enough already.”
“Such as find you the hottest outfit ever?”
“Exactly.” I slap on a Cheshire grin.
“It deserves repeating. You are so darn fine, Keke. I mean, wow.” She touches my arm, snatching her finger away as if I burned her.
I roll my eyes at her theatrics. “I’m a life-size disco ball.”
“And there’s nothing wrong with that. All eyes will be on you.”
“That’s not what I had planned when this night was discussed.”
She waves off my concern. “Plans are meant to get bent.”
“I don’t think that’s a thing.”
“It is now. We’re partying college-girl style. No regrets!”
“Several years too late, my friend. I’m a mom and already exhausted. Squeezing myself into this getup expended all of my spare energy.”
She frowns and points at me. “This is happening.”
I hold up my palms. “Yes, okay. I wouldn’t dream of canceling.”
Josey bounces her eyebrows. “Because you want to meet someone special.”
“Ford will drool over you.” Millie claps a palm over her mouth, stifling a giggle.
“Ha, very funny. He won’t be anywhere close enough to slobber on me. And I thought we were done discussing him?” I cross my fingers for her to see.
“But I want to visit his shop again,” she whines.
I’ve been avoiding her request to see Crawford like last week’s trash. Nothing good can come out of either. Just when I think she’s dropped the idea for good, his name pops up. I’m one request away from getting her a dog to keep the distraction going. Little does she know, the idea of having a pooch to snuggle with has grown on me. It has nothing to do with that wolfhound at Iron Throttle. Not at all.
The doorbell chimes, saving me from another round of Ford inquisition. Millie launches off the bed and takes off toward the foyer. “I’ll get it,” she calls belatedly.
I laugh while following her retreating form. For such a shy child, she’s bold with those deemed worthy. When I arrive at the entryway, one of those few trusted individuals is crouching down at her level. I smile, giving our new arrival a wave. Alice stands and wraps me in a hug, much like she did with Millie moments ago. I met her on the first day we arrived in Silo Springs. She welcomed us to town with a broad grin and personal tour. I like to believe she pseudo-adopted us in that moment.
Shortly after, Alice introduced me to her daughter. Sutton Bowen lines me up with book cover design jobs and has become a close friend. The list of how helpful the Olsen clan is could go on and on. Their entire family is a true blessing to us in all the best ways.
Alice squeezes me tighter, reminding me of a mother’s embrace. “Hello, Keegan. I’m so pleased you called. We’ve been really looking forward to spending time with Millie.”
This woman reminds me so much of my mom. I swallow the ball of emotion that’s threatenin
g tears. “Are you kidding? I’m the grateful one. It’s very kind of you to keep Millie until the morning.”
“Why not make it afternoon? Then you can sleep in.” She releases me, getting a good look at my outfit. “Oh, my. You’re certainly dressed to impress.”
“Right?” Josey approaches from behind, slinging an arm around my shoulder. “She’s so darn foxy.”
“My mama is gonna get a boyfriend.” Millie whispers the words to Alice, but her hushed tone is loud enough for all to hear.
I cough to cover a choking fit. “Ah, not likely. We’re just going to Bronco Buck for a few dances.”
Josey pinches my arm and I wince. “What she means is we’ll be shaking our booties until the sun rises.”
I nudge my friend away. “Quit it. Alice doesn’t want to hear about your sordid plans.”
“Our,” Josey corrects.
“You two are a hoot. There’s no doubt you’ll attract plenty of suitors.” Alice winks at us.
“And on that note, we should get things rolling.” Josey swivels her hips.
I kneel down and grip Millie’s shoulders, giving her a direct stare. “You’ll be okay staying with Mrs. Olsen overnight?”
My daughter barely bats an eyelash. “Uh-huh. I get to help feed the horses.”
I peek up at Alice. “That’s a huge selling point.”
She bobs her head. “It’s a struggle getting her to leave the barn. She’s so good with the animals. A real natural.”
“Mama says we’re getting a dog soon.” Millie’s slight frame is practically vibrating in my hold.
Alice widens her eyes. “Really? That’s wonderful.”
I shrug. “It’s an old promise I need to follow through on. I’ve been looking at shelters. There are a few family-friendly dogs at the Gulligan Haven location.”
“That will make Millie very happy, I’m sure.”
My daughter nods. “Yes, so happy.”
“It’s not happening tomorrow, baby girl. Don’t get too excited.”
“In the meantime, you can come over to our farm and visit with Gus.”
At the mention of the Olsen’s goldendoodle, Millie begins bouncing around in erratic circles. “Yay, yay! Let’s go. I can’t wait to see him.”