Page 208 of Nothing Special X: The Last Stand

Dale narrowed his eyes.

“Rid,” Fox called.

Rid went stiff.

Dale fumed as though he might tackle Fox to the ground.

Fox brought Xander right up to Rid. “Xander Vale, this is Ridby Shanahan. He’s our stables manager and an invaluable asset to this ranch. He’s responsible for the complete health and welfare of every horse out here.”

Xander gave Rid that incredible, humble smile of his they’d all seen in his movies, TV appearances, Saturday Night Live, or on the red carpet.

“Wow, really. They’re gorgeous.” Xander extended his hand. “It’s nice to meet you.”

Rid opened his mouth.

Nothing came out.

Dale turned his head skyward.

“Are you gonna let his hand fall off, Rid?” Bull chuckled in that deep baritone.

Rid blinked. Then jerked his hand out and clasped Xander’s.

“This is my partner, Cassidy Morrison,” Xander smiled up at his man, proudly.

Cassidy didn’t even bother holding his hand out since Rid hadn’t even glanced in his direction.

“Are you gonna introduce me?” Dale asked Rid.

God flicked his head at Dale. “Xander, that’s Rid’s boyfriend, I think…well, it depends on what better-looking guy stops by the ranch.”

They all stood watching the entertaining exchange.

And God was loving the hell outta how annoyed Dale got.

“Are you gonna say some words?” Bull asked Rid.

Rid swallowed hard. “I like your work, I mean movies.”

Xander’s smile widened. “That’s very kind. Thank you. I like your work too.”

Rid pointed toward the barn, dazed. “I have horses.”

Day choked on his drink.

“I see.”

“I can show you one. Not now. Unless now is…”

Dale gripped the back of Rid’s neck and yanked him against his side. “Will you pull yourself together?”

Rid nodded quickly.

God couldn’t wait to see who else showed up. Apparently, Curtis wanted every person he’d ever encountered to be part of this day, and the ranch was more than big enough to accommodate his ridiculousness.

God was still watching Rid fawn over Xander when he heard a strange, thrumming pulse overhead across the far edge of the property.

“Is that thunder?” Gen panicked.