Page 32 of Saddles

Steam billows in a wave from the corner when he dumps it into the small tub.

“I wish I had one of those on-demand heaters for you.” He sets the empty basin back on the wood stove. “That bath’ll cool off faster than this will warm it up.” But he pulls out a jug and begins to pour it.

“Beggars can’t be choosers.” I shrug, wobbling over to test the temperature.

The dog tilts his head watching me, then the little nub of his tail wags when I get closer.

“Is he friendly?” I really could snuggle a puppy. I bet that would solve all of my problems.

“Yea, unless you’re a cow that likes to run the wrong way,” Ford grumbles, then furrows his forehead. “Sorry, that came out different than it sounded in my head.”

He’s kinda quirky, acting like I’m fragile.

Do I look that rough?

I lean over and scratch the top of the dog’s head.

He pulls back to sniff my wrist, then lets me dig deep behind his ears. “I promise not to ‘moo’ at you, okay?”

His pink tongue lolls before he slides his body to show me his belly.

Ford chuckles behind me. “He’ll be your best friend, now.”

“I could use more friends.” I take a deep breath and straighten myself.

If I had someplace to go the other night, I might not have ended up in that gas station.

“Do you have someplace to go when this storm lets up?” he asks quietly.

I step far enough into the tiny alcove to be out of his line of sight, then start shedding the baggy clothes he lent me.

“I’m gonna move back on campus until my classes are done.” What I do between now and then, I have no idea.

“And drain my dad’s credit card if that bitch hasn’t turned it off already.” I’ll remind him I’m still alive one way or another.

The bulky sweatpants fall, and all I have left on is the crusty fucking panties I’ve been wearing sincethatnight.

“Hold on, I’ll head out to the barn to give you some privacy.” His coat disappears from the hook when he reaches for it.

“Wait.” I watch his arm pause over his hat. “I’d rather not be alone, if that’s okay?” The wind is rattling against the windows. It’s too cold for him to have to hide. I’m past being modest.

I can hear him take a long breath. “Yea, alright. I just figured—”

“Pretty sure if you were gonna hurt me, you’ve had your chance. Am I right?” My toes hit the hot water forcing a gasp.

But holy hell does it feel good.

“Yea, you’re safe with me.” There’s a low thump when he sits on the bed.

Easing myself down, it isn’t until I try to sit that it hurts.

“You okay?” Worry tinges his question.

Damn, I can’t stop the whine of pain.

“I’m just…sore.” I admit.

“Fuck,” he whispers.

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