Page 45 of Dust and Desire
“I think so. God, I hope so.” I ran a hand through my dark hair heated by the sun, suddenly feeling vulnerable. “I’ve never felt anything like this before. It’s terrifying and wonderful and I have no idea what I’m doing.”
“None of us do,” Colt said with a laugh. “That’s what makes it an adventure.”
“An adventure,” I repeated, the words settling into my chest like a warm ember. “I like that.”
We stood in comfortable silence for a while, watching Caroline guide another rider through the barrels. The dust kicked up by the horses caught the afternoon light, creating golden clouds that danced in the air. I found myself thinking about Alex, probably out there somewhere mending fences or checking cattle, his shirt sticking to his back with sweat, that easy smile on his face.
“You’re doing it again,” Colt said with amusement.
“Doing what?”
“That dopey smile. Jesus, you’ve got it bad.”
I laughed, not even trying to deny it anymore. “Maybe I do.”
“Good for you, man. Really.” Colt pushed off from the fence, adjusting his hat. “I know you’ve been crushing on me for some time?—”
“I didn’t—” I began. But he cut me off with a wave of his hand.
“It’s fine,” Colt grinned. “Really. But I’m glad to see you’ve got someone who can return that affection.”
“I…” I paused, letting out a long sigh. “Thanks. And sorry if I was annoying.”
“You weren’t,” he nodded. “It was adorable. But I love Eli more than anything in the world.”
“I know that. He’s a good man.”
“He is,” Colt agreed, patting me on the shoulder. “But that doesn’t mean you’re completely off my mind. If someone didn’t come along soon, Eli and I had half a mind just to show up at your tiny house one night and fuck you just to make you feel better.”
My heart leapt into my throat. I opened my mouth to reply, but no sound came out. Heat flooded my cheeks, and my dick gave an almighty twitch.
Colt threw his head back and laughed. “God, I knew that would throw you for a loop.” He grinned from ear to ear, patting me on the shoulder. “Don’t worry, we can talk about it when you and Alex get settled. I’ve chatted with him a few times and I have a feeling he wouldn’t be opposed to swapping partners for a night or two.”
“Oh… my god…” I stammered, barely able to breathe.
“On that note, I should get going,” Colt chuckled. “Promised Eli I’d help him with the farm paperwork tonight.” He paused, looking back at me. “You know, if you ever want to talk about... navigating all this relationship stuff in a small town... I’m around. It’s not always easy being different here, but the right people make it worth it.”
I felt a surge of gratitude for his unexpected kindness even though my heart was still racing from his sudden confession. “Thanks, Colt. I might take you up on that. And on the other thing…eventually.”
“No rush,” he said. “And no pressure. It’s just a fun idea for later. Focus on Alex right now.”
He tipped his hat and walked away, leaving me alone with my thoughts and the rhythmic sound of hooves on dirt. I stayed a while longer, letting the Texas sun warm my face, thinking about how much had changed in just a few weeks. The man who’d driven down from New York had been lost, searching for something he couldn’t even name. Now I felt like I was finally becoming someone I could recognize in the mirror.
My phone buzzed with a text from Alex.
Working late tonight. Storm coming in and we need to get the cattle moved. I’ll be there as soon as I can.
I typed back.
I’ll keep dinner warm. Be safe.
His response came quickly.
Always am. Miss you already.
Three simple words that made my heart skip. I pocketed the phone and headed back toward the house, already planning what I’d have ready for him. I could just go to the diner for food, that would be a guaranteed win. Nobody cooked as good as Dolly. But the other part of me wondered if he might like something else, after dinner, kept warm. Like maybe myass…It was an exciting prospect. I’d yet to do that sort of thing with him, but I was too curious to wait much longer. I just had to make sure I was ready.
As I walked past the arena, I caught sight of storm cloudsgathering on the horizon, dark and heavy with rain. The wind was picking up, stirring the grass and making the trees whisper secrets to each other. On the far side of the arena a dusty red truck was parked in the grass. It must’ve been the father of one of the students. However, it seemed like he was staring at me, following my every movement. Then again, I probably looked out of place in a designer t-shirt.
