Page 4 of Saddle and Bound

I turn to look at Rosie, flash a grin, and wink at her. The fiery look she gives me is intense. I’m really getting under her skin... and I like it.

Rosie’s trying hard to look relaxed, but I notice the tension in her eyes. Her movements are stiff, and she’s scanning the place, almost like she’s trying to figure out where she is and how to fit in.

A sly smile creeps up on my lips as I realize I really do enjoy poking at Rosie, getting under her skin a little. It’s a way to shake her out of her stiff, perfectionist attitude. There’s something irresistibly fun about watching her try to keep control while I work to push her out of her comfort zone.

This is going to be one hell of a summer...

For professional reasons, I can’t help but analyze every little gesture and movement. And this little princess isn’t being honest. The short, clipped answers and forced smiles tell me she’s hiding something, maybe a side of herself she doesn’t want to show. It’s like there’s an internal battle going on between the Rosie who’s used to LA and the one she could discover here, in this remote ranch. I wonder what she’s trying to protect and why she seems so determined to keep control.

My musings could be entirely wrong, though, because I’m totally distracted by that damn redhead walking past just now, way too close, Because, being the massive dickhead that I am, I didn’t give her enough space. And I’ve got to figure out how to not show everyone the damn erection I’m sporting right now.

Especially with Robert, her dad, not too far away.

As I try to mentally scold myself and compose myself... my voice just slips out on its own. Well done, brain-mouth coordination!

"Hey, Rosie," I say, stepping closer with a sly grin. "You sure you don’t want to take a ride? It might help you relax a bit... that is, if you know how to ride."

She shoots me a deadly glare, but I see a spark of challenge in her eyes.

Perfect.

Exactly what I was hoping for. There’s something thrilling about going toe-to-toe with someone so stubborn. Now I really need to get out of sight and do something about this... situation.

The day ends without further incident, but Rosie continues to occupy my thoughts. There’s something about her that challenges me, provokes me, and definitely excites me WAY too much. One thing’s for sure, though: this summer is not going to be boring.

Chapter 3

Alex

Today

The early afternoon sun beats strongly on my back as I walk towards the training corral. The familiar smell of earth, horse sweat, and leather envelops me, awakening my senses. This is my domain, the place where my passion transforms into art.

I carefully observe Tornado, the young thoroughbred I'm training this week. His bright eyes and attentive ears tell me he's ready for the session. I enter the corral with fluid and confident movements, immediately establishing my presence. Tornado looks at me, curious but cautious.

I begin the warm-up routine, guiding the horse with vocal commands and subtle gestures. Every movement, every command is the result of years of experience and a deep understanding of equine psychology. I feel Tornado's energy flowing through the lead rope, like a silent conversation between us.

As I work, I'm aware of every muscle of the horse, of every change in his posture. This is what I love about my job: the delicate dance between man and animal, the trust that builds slowly, the satisfaction of seeing a horse grow and learn under my guidance.

The ranch pulses with life around me: the rhythm of hooves on packed earth, the distant neighing of other horses, the rustle of wind through the pines. This is my world, where I truly feel alive.

Meanwhile, I can't get the image of Rosie out of my head. So out of place, so arrogant in her attempt to maintain control. It amuses me, in a way. And, of all things, I can't stop thinking about her in a bikini… truly illegal. This morning she wore a blue bikini that fit her perfectly. It wasn't too revealing… it was simple. But that girl is a walking bombshell without even trying.

As if I need more fuel for my fantasies…

Since Rosie arrived at the ranch, I've had almost more erections than in the last year. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve jerked off thinking about her.

This is seriously annoying.

I need to get her out of my head… but she’s damn near everywhere! This morning, I even found her underwear. Apparently, she doesn’t even know how to hang laundry. I found them on the path, for crying out loud. She’s definitely used to some high-tech apartment dryer, like the princess she is. And those panties were damn delicious, and I was really tempted to keep them... but when I went to the beach and saw Rosie looking so sexy, the challenge and irritation pulled me right back in.

As I adjust the saddle on one of the horses, I hear a movement behind me and turn. Rosie is walking towards me, with an expression that exudes determination and, perhaps, a bit of anger. She’s wearing one of her damn blouses and a fluttering skirt. God… this woman is trying to kill me!

"Hey, cowboy," she says with a sharp tone. "I thought I'd find some peace and quiet here, but apparently that's not possible."

I raise an eyebrow. "Oh, sorry if my work is disturbing you," I reply, with a note of sarcasm in my voice. "Can I help you in any way?"

"You can stop acting superior," she retorts, crossing her arms over her chest. "I'm not here to be made fun of.”

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