“That’s the thing… he is. But he’s being all noble about it.”
“That’s kinda hot.”
“Iknow.” I mean, it’s entirely possible that part of the reason I’m so drawn to him is because he’s playing hard to get, but it’s not like I want to marry the guy. I just want to scratch the itch. And maybe get to know him better. Withandwithout his Wranglers.
“Is he a decent guy?” Macy glances down the table to where Dean is talking to T.J.’s parents, who arrived in Vegas just in time to join us for dinner.
“Beyond decent. We spent some time together when I was in Montana for the Christmas festival, and he’s as sweet as he is sexy.” I give a wistful sigh, propping my elbow on the table and resting my chin in my hand.
Macy smiles softly. “Maybe you need to approach him differently.”
“What do you mean?”
“You’re one of the most forward people I know, so I’m going to assume you’ve been the same way with him.”
“I guess.” I’m not sure I know how to be any other way.
“Dial it back and ask him to hang out. Nothing more. Grab a show or spend some money in one of the casinos. Heck, go over to the ABR and watch Holden ride.”
“His event is right now.” I’ve been discreetly checking my phone for updates, and so far, he’s in second place, just two points behind the leader, with one ride left tomorrow night.
“Okay, so no bull riding. That’s probably for the best anyway. Less thinking about your brother.”
We certainly don’t need any more of that. “He’s older,” I admit as I cut into my cheesecake. “Do you think that’s weird?”
She scrunches up her face. “Why would it be? Besides, he can’t be more than twenty-eight, tops.”
“Try thirty-two.”
Her eyes widen. “Oh. Well, that’s still workable.”
I laugh quietly and steal a glance his way just as he looks up and catches me. Despite the heat filling my cheeks, I don’t look away. I may be young, but I know what I want.
I just need to convince him it’s okay for him to want me, too.
chapter 4
TESSA
“Ladies and gentlemen, let’s give a big Vegas welcome to the newlyweds—Mr. and Mrs. T.J. Langston!” The DJ whoops into the microphone as the reception hall’s doors open and Bella and T.J. appear, hands thrown in the air.
They dance their way into the room as everyone gets to their feet, clapping and whistling and cheering them on, just like we did an hour ago when the minister pronounced them man and wife.
“God, they’re disgustingly happy,” Holly mutters beside me at the bridal party table set up at the front of the room. “How much do you want to bet they get busted going at in a closet before the night’s over?”
I bite back a giggle as I clap. “I kinda hope they do.” They’re two of my favorite people, and while their lovey-dovey ways are a bit much sometimes, they deserve every ounce of happiness between them.
“Me too, but damn, I’m jealous.”
This time, I don’t hold back the laugh. “Girl, we’realljealous of what they have, believe me.”
“I wouldn’t be so whiny if Spencer would, you know, actually give me a chance.”
“He’s still digging in his heels?”
She nods. “Yep. He still holding out for you.”
Ugh. That doesn’t make me feel shitty or anything. “I can talk to him again if you want.”
