Page 96 of Dirty Cowboy

"Just nervous about tomorrow," I lie.

She smiles, but there’s a question in her eyes I can’t answer. Not yet. Not until I know for sure that tomorrow isn’t just pretend.

“Everyone’s gathering at the pub. We should go before people start asking questions,” she says.

I exhale slowly. “Yeah. Let’s go.”

Sunlight fades as we make our way toward the celebrations. The small crowd outside the pub hums with excitement, voices rising over the sound of boots on gravel. Inside, the scent of pumpkin spice, beer, and country cooking fills the air. Laughter echoes off the wooden beams, mingling with the music playing over the speakers.

Cornstalks and garlands of colorful leaves hang from every corner, casting a warm glow. At the center of it all, the mechanical bull waits like a challenge.

I nudge Emma. "Ready to defend your title?"

She grins, pointing to a banner stretched above the bull:Reigning Champion: Emma Silver.

“I can’t believe my record held this long,” she says.

"How’s my favorite couple?" Grandpa Albert claps me on the shoulder. "Thought you two would be here sooner."

“Sorry, Grandpa. Today’s been full of surprises,” I say.

"Good surprises?" he asks, eyes twinkling.

I squeeze Emma’s hand. “The best. Thanks for letting us take Suzy.”

“Thank the Fields. They picked us up for lunch so we’ve been here awhile.”

“Are you staying for the competition?” I ask.

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world. Excuse me, the corn dogs are calling my name. You kids enjoy the night. Emma, don’t let the bull ride you. You’re the one in control,” he says.

She laughs. “Thanks for the advice.”

"You should be watching your cholesterol, Grandpa!" I call out as he heads toward the corn dog stand.

Emma tugs my arm. "There’s Annabelle and Derek. Misty told me your sister has the hots for Blake’s dad. Let’s go see what they’re up to."

Before I can object, she pulls me across the dance floor.

Annabelle stands near the mechanical bull, poised and elegant as ever, while Derek leans in, murmuring something in her ear. At our approach, Annabelle’s face brightens.

“There you are! We’ve been looking for you.” She pulls Emma into a hug, then turns to me, her gaze flickering with something unreadable.

"When’s the pie-eating contest?" Emma asks, rubbing her stomach. "I’m starving."

Annabelle’s laugh is half-hearted. "After the bull competition. Anddon’teat before you ride. Caroline’s been eyeing Thor like she owns him. You’d better win, Emma."

I glance past the bull pen and spot Caroline leaning casually against the railing, all long legs and bright lipstick. She’s twirling a strand of hair around her finger, laughing at something the bull operator says. He leans closer, clearly enjoying the attention. Caroline lays a hand on his arm, and I grit my teeth.

Emma tilts her head. “Thor?”

Annabelle smirks. "The new and improved bull. And he’smean."

Emma’s eyes gleam with excitement.

I shake my head, watching the fire light up behind them.

Lord help me, this womanlivesfor a challenge.

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