Casey clears his throat. “You two should get a room.”
Amy shoots him a scolding look. “Leave them be. They’re in that gushy, can’t-keep-their-hands-off-each-other phase, and it’s adorable.”
Casey shakes his head. “I doubt Shep appreciates being called adorable.”
“Oh, he doesn’t mind. Do you, baby?” I give him a playful pat on the chest.
He winds his arm around me, drawing me close to whisper in my ear. “If it keeps a smile on your face, you can call me adorable anytime, darlin’.”
Shep waves down Jake, nodding toward a couple of rowdy guys lingering at the bar who haven’t ordered anything. Jake nods back, and walks over, leaning across the counter to speak to them. One of the men complains loudly, but a sharp look from Jake shuts him up, and the two finally push off from their seats and head to the dance floor.
Shep taps Casey on the shoulder, pointing at the empty stools. “Better snag those before someone else does.”
Casey claps him on the back. “Thanks, man. Really appreciate it.”
He steers Amy toward the bar, helping her onto the stool, and she sighs in relief once she’s settled.
“That was mighty kind of you,” I tell Shep.
“Just doing my job, kicking freeloaders from the bar.”
“Well then, you better order me another Boot Scootin’ Bubbly so I don’t end up on the chopping block too.” I hold out my empty glass.
He leans in, nibbling my earlobe. “Brat.”
I place my free hand on his chest, batting my lashes. “Someone’s got to keep you on your toes,Daddy.”
The fire in his eyes is unmistakable, making me wish we were alone so he could have his way with me.
The past week together has been absolute bliss. We’ve had breakfast with Casey and Amy at the diner, delivered fresh pastries from the local bakery to the homeless shelter, and checked on the animals twice a day. My favorite thing is when we’re holed up in the cabin just the two of us, getting to know each other both in and out of the bedroom.
Shep’s new fascination is watching me edit my podcast episodes, and he even went back to watch my old ones. He’sstill uncertain what a hype-girl is, but he’s been supportive regardless. He had Casey help him create an account on the streaming platform so he could leave a comment on every episode he watches. I’ve read every one, and a few are cheeky, but it’s endearing how supportive he is. It’s a daily reminder of how lucky I am to have him.
In hindsight, losing CoreFuel Labs as a sponsor turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It taught me the importance of partnering with companies that value work-life balance and appreciate what I contribute. I’m learning to set clear boundaries and vet potential sponsors more carefully, and thanks to Shep, I’m learning to accept that it’s okay to turn down opportunities that aren’t in my best interest.
Gemma’s technically still on vacation, but she’s reached out to a few potential companies to fill the sponsor spot CoreFuel Labs left open. Twisted Temptations responded and said as long as the ad spots we have scheduled in the coming month perform well, they’re committed to an ongoing partnership with us. Lucky for me, that means more toys for Shep and me to play with. Up next: red heart-shaped nipple clamps and fuzzy handcuffs for their Valentine’s Day collection launching in February.
As the band launches into a slow country ballad, couples begin drifting to the floor.
“Let’s dance,” I tell Shep.
He shakes his head. “I’m too rusty.”
“It’s not the two-step. You just have to hold me close as we sway back and forth. But if you’d rather not, maybe I’ll ask one of the ranch hands you were serving earlier,” I tease, taking a step away from him.
He growls, tugging me back into his chest. “The only man you’re dancing with is me, woman.”
“I suppose you’ll do.” I wink, motioning to an open space near the stage. “Lead the way, cowboy.”
Shep takes my empty glass and sets it on the bar counter before taking my hand in his and guiding me onto the dance floor. He slides his other hand around my waist, drawing me in until our bodies are flush. His breath is warm against my ear, sending a shiver down my spine. The man has captured my heart in a way no one else ever could, and there’s nowhere I feel safer than in his arms.
“See, isn’t this nice?” I muse.
“There’s nothing better than holding you,” Shep states.
I rest my head against his chest as the music drifts around us. “I was just thinking the same thing.”
The room pulses with anticipation as the band announces it’s almost midnight and counts down from ten to ring in the new year. My gaze meets Shep’s, his hand grazing my cheek. There’s no doubt this is where I’m meant to be, and I silently thank whoever scammed me into showing up at Shep’s doorstep—the place where it all started.
