Page 85 of The Cowboy's Country Charm

“And the dance goes to the gentleman in the front in the white tuxedo.”

It was over and Stetson had lost. And to one of the politicians who had accompanied Kristy’s father, no less. A middle-aged man with a bald spot.

“He should just ask her to dance,” Ariel said. “I hate to see him so disappointed.”

“Well, you could ask him to dance and ease that disappointment some.”

Ariel shrugged. “I decided I’m not interested in playing second fiddle. I’ve got a dance with Mel, and that’s fine with me.”

“Okay, ladies and gentlemen. The dance for the outlaws and their bail bondspersons will be after this film about the foundation is aired, with our very own Greta Hutchins introducing it. We’ll announce the dance from the stage, so be ready. I am happy to report that we raised over three thousand dollars with our bail-out-of-jail event. Now watch the film and open your wallets even further. Pledge cards are on the table to be collected after the film.”

The crowd applauded. Greta grabbed the mic and talked about her own experience with the foundation. She was a natural in the spotlight.

Kristy texted the amount raised to Marcia as Greta mentioned Stetson’s name as the fireman who’d saved her, to loud applause.

When Kristy looked up from her phone, both Rusty and Lexi were walking toward her.

Lexi reached her first. “I just want to say how wonderful I think that went. Brilliant. And so much fun!”

“Thank you.” She glanced behind Lexi at Rusty, who stood with his hands in his pockets, waiting his turn.

“You guys have certainly delivered an affair to remember.” Lexi squeezed Kristy’s hand and then Ariel’s. “I’ll leave you with your outlaw. I need to report back to Kate on how the film goes over.” She strode back to her seat, leaving Rusty standing before her.

“I’m going to check in with Mel.” Ariel waved her fingers and followed Lexi.

Rusty placed his hot hand on her waist. “Can’t wait until the band returns.”

“I was a little worried there.”

“Me too.”

“I think you may have some unfinished business with your old girlfriend.”

“I know that I don’t. The only unfinished business I have is with you. Tonight.”

“Promise?”

He leaned in, pressing his hard lips against hers, making her melt inside as he plundered her mouth, right there on the floor. Her knees felt weak, and she clung to his shoulders for balance.

His warm mouth moved to her ear. “That’s a taste of what’s to come.”

“Can’t wait.” She sighed.

He released her, and she righted herself, still holding on to his shoulders. “I have to check on the caterer,” she said, fighting to recover her senses. “The toppings for the ice cream table were getting low.”

“You’ll be back for the dance though?” His eyes searched hers, as if looking for an answer to a more serious question.

“I wouldn’t miss it.”

Her heart felt light as she practically skipped back to the caterer.

She popped her head into the bustling kitchen and made the request for more toppings for the ice cream table. Then she turned to go back to Rusty.

“What areyoudoing back here?” she asked as she whirled around.

Chapter 22

Dean stood in the hallway off the kitchen, where the catering staff entered the facility.

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