Page 76 of Shattered Hearts

He nods appreciatively. “Maybe the others would want to come for a bike ride with us one day?”

“Maybe. They prefer horse riding, though.”

“And you don’t?”

My eyes flicker away, and I feel the spark in my chest as I watch Laynie and Macie approach us, smiling and laughing. Laynie’s hair is in a high ponytail, her overalls over a pink jumper, and black boots that are dusty and muddy. She looks perfect.

That’s when I feel a flick on my head and cringe. “Ow.”

“You were staring a little too much,” Knox mumbles, glancing to see who has grabbed my attention. He smirks. “If you keep this up, I’ll start thinking that you might like her.”

My deadpanned expression is enough of an answer, and Knox’s smirk drops to an O shape as the gears click in his head. “You do, don’t you?” he breathes out.

I clear my throat, looking around to make sure that my brothers aren’t here. “You can’t say anything, though.”

“I won’t,” he promises with a wide grin. “You can trust me.”

“I do trust you, Knox.” I press a hand to his shoulder, squeezing it a little.

Laynie’s boots crunch against the gravel, tearing away my attention. “Hey, boys,” she says softly with a grin.

I feel the collywobbles tangle in my stomach as Knox gives a small wave. “Hey, Laynie. How’s Golden Hour? Paisley said it’s booming at the moment.”

She blows out a small breath, tucking flyaways behind her ears. I’m a little sad that I wasn’t able to do it. My fingers are itching to touch her hair again after the other night.

“It’s been busy, even with a second baker. I shouldn’t complain, though. We’ve had a lot of new people coming past to try our winter menu. It just means we are having to bake more than normal, but it’s nothing Marigold and I can’t handle.”

“Oh, that’s awesome. I’m glad it’s going well.”

Laynie’s smile brightens. “Thank you, Knox.”

“You’re welcome.” His phone chimes loudly. “Paisley is here. I should go so I’m not late for helping with dinner. It’s my turn tonight."

“Go.” I pat his back. “I’ll see you next Saturday for another ride.”

“Oh yes! I’m so excited fo—”

Macie elbows Knox in the side, and I frown. Knox stutters out nervously, “I-I mean, I’m excited for another bike ride. Yeah. Gotta run.”

Before I can question that terrible cover up, Knox takes off towards the small four-wheel drive parked out the front with its engine running. Macie follows after him, leaving us two alone.

I arch a brow at Laynie, expecting an explanation, but she doesn’t offer one. All she says is, “So you and Knox are getting closer. It’s nice.”

I eye her suspiciously, wondering what all of that was about, but something inside of me tells me it’s better not to hassle her for the information.

But it has me wondering what is happening next weekend.

“We are. He’s a good kid. I like hanging out with him, and he’s enjoying the rides.”

“Why doesn’t he ride with Daniel?” she asks curiously.

I sigh softly, wondering what I should share with her about Knox’s story. He told me all that in private, and it seems rude to share that with Laynie behind his back.

So, I settle on, “His brothers are busy, and I had the space and time. And I think he needed someone older to look up to, or at least that was the impression I got from Paisley when she asked me.”

Laynie’s gaze stills on mine, the dim glow of the sun blinding her a little, she shades her face with her hand. She looks like she has something on her mind. I see the gears turning in her head, grinding away as she considers everything. “I think it’s good that he’s spending time with you. You’re a good man, Grayson.”

My mouth pulls upwards into a grin, and I pinch her lightly, making her squeal. “Sounds like you might be impressed with me.” I shoot her a wink.