Page 6 of Untamed

I shoot him a scowl, but bite back a response. Let him think what he wants. He doesn’t know what the hell he is talking about.

Chapter Five

MILA

Brandon talks nonstop as we ride slowly across the vast open meadows of Oakridge Ranch. Don’t ask me what he’s saying because honestly, I’m not listening. It’s not that I’m being rude or obnoxious, it’s just always the same old story with Brandon. Not that it’s the only reason my mind wouldn’t stop wandering.

No.

I hate to admit it, especially after the conversation with Dad this morning, but my thoughts are still back at the barn. With Colter. The grumpy, ridiculouslyhot, cowboy back there who has absolutely no business occupying this much of my attention.

There was just something about him. Maybe it was the way Colter treated me like I was no more than a nuisance during our brief interaction, a mix of indifference and irritation that only made him more intriguing. Or maybe it was his looks. Because let’s be honest, those alone are enough to spark curiosity in any woman.

Tall, and rugged with piercing, albeit haunted, emerald eyes. Dark hair peeked out beneath his cowboy hat, matching the dark stubble that framed a sharp jawline. And that body. Broad shoulders, strong thighs, muscular build, and the way his flannelshirt clung to him like it was a custom made. He is the very definition of gorgeous personified.

It’s no wonder my father laid down ground rules with someone like Colter hanging around. A blind man could see how attractive he is.

“Are you even listening, Mila?” Brandon’s voice cuts through my lustful thoughts, and a squeeze to my thigh snaps me back to reality.

My grip tightens on the reins, and my head snaps up to find Brandon frowning at me. Heat creeps into my cheeks under his intense gaze.

Shifting uncomfortably in my saddle, I mumble. “Sorry. What were you saying?”

Brandon searches my face, tracking over every inch as if he’s trying to pull my thoughts straight from my brain. When he realizes that’s not going to happen, he sighs. “I said, do you want to grab some dinner in town tonight?”

My heart sinks as I look at him. If I didn’t realize it before, it’s painfully clear now. Brandon isn’t going to give up on me, no matter how many times I try to let him down gently. I shake my head, the word slipping out before I can stop it. “No.” The way his face falls is a punch to the gut, and guilt gnaws at my insides. “I mean. I can’t. We’re having a family dinner tonight.”

He nods curtly, a tight smile stretching across his face. “Okay. Maybe another time then?” he asks.

“Sure.” I force a smile, though deep down I know I should be honest with him. I should tell him that our kiss was a mistake, that we’re never going to happen. Maverick explained that although Brandon wasn’t at the meeting when Dad spoke to all the ranch staff about me being off limits, he did pull him aside separately, to make sure he got the message. My father wouldn’t set one rule for some and another for Brandon. Which is why I don’t understand why he is still pushing this. Brandonhas to know the threat of losing his job is real. Just because he’s Maverick’s best friend and someone I’ve known my whole life, doesn’t mean he gets special treatment. Dad will fire his ass if he steps out of line. His one-sided, unrequited crush isn’t worth him losing his job. Hopefully, once he realizes that, he’ll move on. Now, I just need to figure out a way to tell him without making things worse. Or hurting him more than I already have.

He grins wide at my response, his face lighting up as if he just won the lottery. “There’s a new restaurant in town that opened up a couple months ago. I think you will love it,” he says eagerly.

I cringe, unable to match his excitement. What will it take for him to realize I’m not interested?

Sighing, I push that thought aside. That’s a problem for another day. Instead of acknowledging his suggestion, I force a smile and say. “I think we should head back. Nova will be here soon.”

“Oh my God, I can’t believe you are finally here.” Nova squeals, wrapping me in a tight hug that nearly squeezes all the air out of my lungs.

Laughing, I pull out of her hold, taking a step back. “I know. You have no idea how good it is to be home.”

Nova gives me a look of understanding, one that borders on pity. She knows exactly how I felt living in Georgia. How much I missed the ranch and struggled with the arrangement my mom forced me into. Slipping her arm through mine, she guides me toward the barn door. “You’re home now and that’s all that matters,” she says with a reassuring smile. “I have so much planned for us while you are here.”

“I can’t wait,” I say honestly, a genuine smile tugging at my lips as we step outside into the sunlight.

“You–” Nova starts, but her words are abruptly cut off by the commotion coming from the arena. Both our heads snap in that direction, curiosity drawing our attention. Most of the staff, my brother, Brandon and my father are gathered around the high wooden railing fence, their focus locked on the action inside. I squint, trying to make out the two figures atop the horses, roping cattle. Garrett and… Is that Colter? His head lifts just then, the light catching his face, and sure enough, it’s him.

In unison, Nova and I move toward where my dad stands. His arms are crossed over his chest, a deep frown marring his face, and his brows drawn together in heavy concentration as he watches the two men in the arena.

“What’s going on?” I ask, sidling up beside him.

He glances down at me, his expression serious. “The cowboy’s version of a pissing contest,” he mutters dryly.

“What?” I blink in confusion.

“Colter used to be the number one rodeo rider in the country until an accident forced him to quit,” my dad explains, his tone even as his gaze stays locked on the two men. “Garrett’s the reigning champion on the circuit right now. This is Colter’s way of trying to prove that he is worthy of being part of the Becker rodeo and cutting team.”

I nod thoughtfully. Turning toward the arena, I climb up onto the fence, balancing carefully to get a better view. “He wants to go back on the rodeo circuit?” I ask, my voice tinged with intrigue as I watch Colter maneuver his horse with practiced ease.

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