I step from the shower, feeling like a ninety-year-old woman. My body hates me. When we returned home from Sawbuck Saloon, we both fell into bed, clutching one another with no intent of ever letting go.

I fell into a deep slumber, too exhausted to do anything but sleep. I’m thankful Saxon was still sound asleep when I rose. The deep furrow lines revealed troublesome dreams, but some sleep was better than none, so I left him be.

I spent endless minutes under the shower, piecing together the events of last night. I could blame the alcohol, but that would be a lie. Drunk or not, Saxon expressed exactly how he felt.

I will fight for him, for us, but I can’t live through a repeat of last night ever again. I can only hope with everything out in the open, we can move on from here.

Wiping down the misted over mirror, I peer at my weary appearance. I don’t even recognize this person anymore. The fire has faded from my eyes. Selling this house can’t come soon enough.

Before I left like a raving lunatic, Sam and I somehow were able to find common ground. It’ll never be like what it once was, but I don’t want it to be. As long as we can co-exist, then I’m happy. As I reach for the moisturizer, something purple catches my attention.

At first, I think my eyes are playing tricks, but when I lean in, I gasp and quickly pull back. Extending my arm, I look down and see bruises in the shape of finger marks marring my bicep. I turn to the right and see I have a matching set.

“Crap,” I curse to myself, attempting to rub over the evidence, hoping it’ll wash away. It doesn’t. It only seems to highlight the fact Saxon left accidental finger marks on my arms after he grabbed me last night. I know he didn’t mean to, but regardless, if he sees these, it’ll only add to the sudden shitstorm we’ve found ourselves in.

My makeup is in the bedroom and so are my clothes, so wrapping the towel tightly around me, I tiptoe down the hallway, hoping by some miracle, Saxon will still be asleep. I open the door, screwing up my face when the flooring creaks under my weight.

Peering around the doorjamb, I breathe a sigh of relief when I see Saxon still lost in a deep slumber. Now the hard part. I creep through the room, deciding a t-shirt should do the trick. I have one with longer sleeves so decide to put that on.

Flicking my gaze from the dresser to the bed, I continue skulking, not even game to take a full breath. When I’m feet away, I reach for the drawer and place my hand against the woodgrain, hoping to mask the noise of it opening.

I inch it ajar, as I only need to reach my fingers inside to pull the shirt out. When I pass over the soft cotton, I exhale, but it’s all premature because the rustle of sheets reveals my ruse is up. “Hey.”

His sleep-laden voice is husky and raw, but that’s no surprise, considering his actions last night. “Hey,” I reply, drawing out the pause.

I’m frozen to the spot like a child caught with her hand in the cookie jar. I could just pull out the shirt, but if I slip it on with my back turned, it’ll be just as bad. Alas, I do nothing.

“Are you angry with me?” His uncertainty pains me. God, how did we get to this?

“No, Saxon, of course not.”

“Then why won’t you look at me?” Nothing slips past him.

I can either make matters worse by never facing him again, or I can turn and hope everything will be all right. I decide on the latter. Spinning slowly, I tighten the towel around me. It gives me a false sense of security.

We lock gazes, and I immediately feel like he can read what’s going through my mind. Biting my lip, I look away, unable to lie. My retreat has him springing from the bed, his heavy footsteps pounding against the wooden floor.

“I am so sorry, Lucy. Last night, my behavior was…” He breaks midsentence. “What the fuck?” I don’t have time to move from the firing line because he gently rubs his thumb over my upper arm. His touch so different from last night. “Who did this?” When I remain silent, almost certain I’ve gnawed my lip clean off, he hisses. “I did this?”

“You didn’t mean to,” I reply softly, but he inhales through his teeth, taking a step back.

“Don’t make excuses for me. I laid my fucking hands on you and did that!” He points a finger at the evidence, clearly sickened. “And I also pushed you. Didn’t I?” It seems some things may be a little murky, but through the haze, he knows things weren’t pretty.

“Yes.” Static fills the room, and I have the urge to cover my ears.

All I can do is watch as Saxon runs both hands through his hair, stumbling backward, and slouching onto the edge of the bed. “I’m a monster,” he pronounces, shaking his head back and forth.

His claim is exactly what Sam said him to be, but he’s wrong, and I refuse to allow him to think otherwise. “No, you’re not.” I rush to where he’s slumped, sitting next to him. “Look at me.” When he refuses, I grip both cheeks and force him to. “Stop it. Last night was a fucking mess, but this—” I thrust my arm in his view, but he turns his cheek, pained “—this was an accident,” I press. “You didn’t do this deliberately. Same goes for when you pushed me.”

“Says the girlfriend with battered wife syndrome.” He yanks his face from my hold, his guilt almost suffocating us both. He rises and begins to pace like a caged tiger. I watch, wishing I’d stayed in bed. “Sorry doesn’t even seem to cut it anymore.”

“Then don’t say it,” I counter firmly. “I’m sick of hearing sorry.”

He thankfully stops trudging and stands in the middle of the room. “I will never forgive myself for what I did.”

“Well, that makes the two of us.” My confession has nothing to do with last night, and it seems to calm the storm. “We’ve all done things we’re not proud of, but the key is to learn from your mistakes so we don’t make them again.”

We all get a second chance, and that’s called tomorrow, and our tomorrow is today.

Saxon’s bare chest rises and falls, the sight almost hypnotizing. “What I’ve learned—” he steps toward me, dropping to the floor “—is that I worship you. No more saying sorry. I won’t mess this up. I promise. If I’ve done anything right in my life, it was when I gave you my heart.” He wraps his arms around my calves and rests his cheek against my knee. God, the sight of utter surrender.

Running my fingers through his silken hair, I sigh, the end finally in sight. Our relationship hasn’t been smooth sailing, but I suppose our circumstances are rare, which is why I want to hold onto it, nurture it, and watch it grow.

Just as the air settles, the door bursts open and in charges Sam. I recognize that look. This can’t be good. “You son of a bitch!”

Saxon jolts, surprised Sam is in our bedroom, but quickly defends himself when Sam marches over, fists clenched. He springs upward and holds out a long arm, using it as a barricade to stop him from advancing farther. “What do you want?”

“I want you to leave. Now!” He slams his chest into Saxon’s makeshift blockade, not at all deterred.

“Sam, enough!” I also rise, standing by Saxon. This madness cannot continue. Asking him to stay was a bad idea. Someone has to go.

“No, not this time. I heard about what he did,” Sam shouts, his gaze flicking down my body. I automatically fold my arms, using my hands to cover the bruises, but it’s too late.

“Jesus Christ! Good news travels fast in this town. Let me guess, mother dearest?” Sam advances forward, intent on murder, but Saxon shoves him. “You can’t do anything to me that I haven’t already done to myself.” This is Kellie’s doing? What, is she spying on me now?

“I can try!”

“Enough! This bickering has to stop!” I intervene, stepping between the brothers—a place I always seem to find myself in.

“She could have gotten hurt! She clearly did,” Sam snarls, ignoring me as he peers around my frame to eyeball Saxon.

“Don’t you think I know that!”

Sam is seething, and when he finally decides to include me, I see just how much so. “I told you he was bad news. This is why I have done everything I did! To protect you… from this.” He grips my upper arm, shaking me gently. I yank out of his hold.

A feral growl rumbles from behind me. “That’s it. We’re going to do this— once and for all. Outside. Now.”

“Saxon, no!” I whip around, shaking my head animatedly. After last night, I can’t stomach to see him in another brawl.

He passionately clutches the back of my neck, drawing our faces together. “Trust me.” I want to fight him, but after last night, after establishing we need trust to ensure this relationship survives, I have no choice but to back down.

I nod, my lip quivering in fear. He kisses the dread from them softly. I watch as he slips into a pair of blue jeans and t-shirt and marches out of the room. Sam accepts the challenge and follows in hot pursuit. I’m still in a towel, so I madly race around the room, slipping into a summer dress.

I tie my hair into a high ponytail and don’t bother with any shoes as I sprint through the house and out the back door. When I see Saxon and Sam standing in the middle of the yard, I fly down the stairs, my heart in my throat. At the moment, they look content on just speaking, but I stand on the sidelines, ready to intervene if need be.

“I could say I’m sorry, but I’m not,” Saxon states. This isn’t starting out well. “I’ve loved that woman—” he points to where I am “—from the first moment I laid eyes on her. You knew that, but you didn’t care. So, if this is the karma train, then choo-fucking-choo.”

Sam’s jaw clenches, but I’m surprised when he remains quiet.

“Quite frankly, we’re both here ’cause of Lucy. I love her. You love her.” When Sam doesn’t deny it, I lower my eyes, ashamed. “But let’s get one thing straight. This is her choice, and by some miracle, she’s chosen me.” Saxon thumbs his chest while Sam exhales. “If she had chosen you, I’d have accepted it because all I want is her happiness.”

“I want that too,” Sam affirms while I attempt to deal with this guilt-ridden weight.

“Then accept this for what it is. You’re still here because Lucy is too kind for her own good. But make no mistake…” Saxon takes a step forward, the air spinning malevolent. “If I think for one second you’re playing an angle, so help me god…I will end you. Brother or not.”

Sam smirks, but it’s not a pleasant sight. I’m actually surprised he hasn’t said more. But I suppose he too can sense the gravity to Saxon’s words.

“If Kellie knows what’s good for her, she’ll stay away. Tell her to keep her nose out of my business. It’s too late to play the part of concerned parent. No one buys her act.”

“I’m not your messenger boy. Tell her yourself.”

“Fine.” Saxon folds his arms across his broad chest. “I thought you’d have more tact, but I’ll be sure to leave a fuck you sign on the front door.”

Regardless of Kellie’s flaws, Sam loves his mother. He composes himself, but his poise worries me. Is this the calm before the storm?

“I know the doctors think Lucy is the key to you getting better, but if you take advantage of her kindheartedness …” He runs a hand over his mouth, as if reining in his rage. “I will rip out your spleen and feed it to you.” I pale at his threat because I don’t think it’s empty. “I’m watching you. I don’t trust you. You may have Lucy fooled, but I see you. I always have. You can’t play me, Samuel. We’re flesh and blood, whether we like it or not. But Lucy…she is my heart.” He presses a tight fist to his chest, the sight reducing me to tears. “Fuck with my heart, and we’ve got a problem. We clear?”

The article in question swells, and I can’t help but fall deeper in love with Saxon Stone.

You can cut the tension with a knife. My glance bounces back and forth between them, praying Saxon doesn’t have more blood on his hands. However, when Sam eventually nods, I don’t know whether to celebrate or cry. Surely it can’t be this easy?

But it appears it is. “So what happens now?”

“Now, I go inside, shower, and take my girl out on the date I owe her.” I can’t wipe the smile clean. To be referred to as his out in the open is beyond liberating. “You’re not going to bitch and moan. You’re going to take it like a man and be happy for someone other than yourself for a change. I don’t like this arrangement, and I know you sure as shit don’t. But learn to live with it because I’m not curbing my behavior to spare your feelings.”

“Here’s to hoping you’ll get sick of me and leave. We both know you’re good at that.” It’s the first quip Sam has delivered, but it pales to Saxon’s promise.

“I have a reason to stay.” He turns to look at me, a longing lingering in his gaze. “And she’s the only reason that matters.” I want to run to him and throw my arms around him, but I stay put. “I don’t want to discuss this again.”

Saxon waits for Sam’s response, but he doesn’t get one. Sam just pins him with a look that turns my blood cold. “Consider it done then.”

Saxon nods once, but make no mistake, if Sam could murder Saxon with a look alone, he’d be a smoldering pile of ashes where he stands. I cross my fingers behind my back, hoping that this is really it. I don’t have any fight left. I just want to move forward.

When Saxon appears satisfied, he turns and walks toward me. I stand still, not sure what happens next. “I’m going to hit the shower.” He kisses my forehead and then ambles up the stairs as if something explosive didn’t just occur.

Both Sam and I are quiet, digesting everything Saxon just said. His delivery may have been harsh, but there is no nice way to express what he did. “You’re sure?” Sam’s question shatters the silence.

“Yes,” I whisper, wishing there was a way everyone wins.

“Your happiness is all I ever wanted… so we’re really over?”

I nod slowly. “No matter what, I did love you, Sam.” I know this feels like he’s the runner-up, but what I felt for him was real. “I will never forget what we shared. You’re a part of me.”

Sam scoffs, clearly not appreciating the finality of my words. “Be careful what you wish for.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” I ask, the hair standing on the back of my neck.

He turns his back, digging his hands deep into his pockets. “You become what you surround yourself with.”

He and the horse he rode in on can go fuck themselves. “Well, that’s love, honesty, and integrity. Maybe you should try it on for size.” I don’t bother waiting for a reply because I have nothing left to say.

Turning on my heel, I walk up the stairs and decide to have an Irish coffee without the coffee. As I ransack the liquor cabinet, my cell chimes. Reaching for it off the counter, I smile when I see who the caller is.

“Is it safe?”

“For the moment. Hi, Piper.”

The past few days have been beyond crazy, and knowing Piper, she gave me breathing room because I had to fight this battle on my own.

“I wanted to give you space to sort out your shit.”

“I know. There’s no need for you to explain. I get it. How have you been? I miss you.” My life has slipped into a time warp, and I feel like I haven’t seen her in years.

“I miss you, too. I’ve been good. Just worried about you.”

Finding a bottle of whiskey, I unscrew the lid and the woodsy smell wafts through the air. “I’m okay. Just taking one day at a time.” I pour a splash of the amber liquid and wonder if I should eat something first.

However, when Piper says, “How’s Sam?” I skip the notion of food and throw back the shot.

“Ugh,” I groan into the phone, screwing up my face and wetting my lips. “Sorry. That shot of whiskey was probably a bad idea.”

“You do realize it’s nine a.m.?”

“I know,” I reply with a sigh, refilling my glass. “I really have no excuse other than it seemed like a good idea at the time.”

“That bad?”

I throw back another shot, the burn bringing tears to my eyes. “You have no idea. I expected Saxon and Sam to have killed one another by now, but I think they’ve reached an agreement. For now, anyway,” I add.

“We have to catch up. Do you have any plans tonight?”

“Saxon and I were going to go on a date.” I can’t help but smile at how natural that felt.

“Wow,” she gushes, her surprise clear. “We really need that catch up ASAP. Sam is okay with this?” And just like that, I’m hit with the aftertaste of something else—guilt.

Slumping onto the stool, I pour myself another drink. “No, but he doesn’t have a say. He knows everything. I’ve told him.”

“How did he react?”

“Not great, but this was never going to be easy. I suppose I could have eased him into it, but I didn’t want to be wrapped up in yet another lie. There’s been enough deceit between us.” I toss back the shot, the burn doing nothing to appease the scalding within.

“That’s fair enough. And besides, stop being so selfless. You deserve your happily ever after too.”

I want to believe her. “I know. I just feel like the villain in this story. That’s why I did—”

“What did you do?” she interjects.

Pulling the label off the whiskey bottle, I confess, “I said he could stay here when he offered to move out.” Oh gosh, saying it aloud highlights how outrageous this situation is.

“What?”

“I know, but what was I supposed to do? I couldn’t throw him out of his own home. I couldn’t do that and stay here happily with Saxon.”

Piper sighs, and I know that’s what most people would do if they got wind of my woes. “Your kindness will be the death of you, Lucy.”

“I wasn’t that kind to his mom.”

Her interest is piqued for an entirely different reason now. “Oh my god, what did the wicked witch do?”

I scoff, definitely needing another drink. “What didn’t she do? Let’s just say I’m now at the top of her shit list, but instead of my name, she has listed me as a tramp.”

“That…bitch.”

“It’s okay. Her opinion means nothing to me. I’m just focusing on the positives.”

“Like…?”

I’m thankful to change the subject, especially to talk about my man. “Like how amazing Saxon is. Like how I’m selling my home.” I bite my lip, wondering if I should reveal what’s on my mind. “Like how maybe, I might…move.” I cringe, waiting for her response.

“Move where?”

Here goes nothing. “I’m not too sure. Oregon, maybe?”

“No…fucking…way. Really?”

It’s the first time I’ve even considered it, but it seems inevitable. Saxon’s home is there. But mine is here.

“I’ll miss you.”

Frowning, I know the feeling all too well. “I’ll miss you too. But nothing is confirmed,” I say more for myself than for her sake. Nothing is decided anyway, so I decide not to dwell on it until I have to.

“Well, in any case, you owe me a girls’ night out.”

“I do.” That sounds so simple and ordinary. Something to take my mind off this mess.

“Whatever you decide, I’m happy for you. Besides—” her voice turns dreamy “—Saxon has always been my favorite.”

Her change of pitch has me realizing how insensitive I’m being. Piper has had a crush on Saxon for ages; she even made a move, but like the true gentleman he is, he told her he was flattered but he loved someone else—that person being me. “I’m sorry, Pipe. I didn’t mean…”

“Stop it. Don’t even. No explanation needed. However, an explanation will be required from Sam… He needs to explain why he’s been such an ass.”

“Piper,” I warn. She and Sam have never really seen eye to eye. She’s mentioned on many occasions that I deserve better. But her tactlessness will just make things worse.

“Okay, okay…my lips are sealed. For now. But every dog has its day.” I can’t argue with that, but I don’t say a word. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

“And remember, have fun. You’re allowed to be selfish every now and again.”

I hang up, feeling better. Piper always has the uncanny ability to do this regardless of my mood. I make a mental note to send her a bouquet of unicorn cupcakes.

As I’m tossing back yet another shot of whiskey, a voice akin to sex and molten chocolate floats through the air. “Starting early?”

When Saxon walks through the door, I take a moment to compose myself. His hair is wet and slicked back as if he used his fingers to comb it from his gorgeous face. He’s in all black—black V-neck and black ripped jeans—which makes his tattoos appear all the more vibrant. His feet are bare, and who would have thought feet could be sexy. But as I take in the tall, dark, and handsome, I know Saxon is the epitome of the word.

“Yup.” I clear my throat, managing to push out the word after three attempts.

He saunters—yes, saunters—over with a smirk. If he doesn’t stop looking at me this way, I’m going to leap across this counter and tackle him to the ground. He stops in front of me, knowing I’m enjoying the show.

Leaning on both elbows, he slinks forward, scooping the bottle toward him. He raises it to his lips, and I’m suddenly envious of it. His Adam’s apple bobs as he takes a swig. I close my gaping mouth. Rubbing his lips with the back of his hand, he slides the bottle my way. “That’s good whiskey. Everything all right?” he asks while I rival a statue.

“Y-yes. I just spoke to Piper.”

He smirks. “How is she?”

“She’s Piper.” He laughs, and it’s music to my ears. I don’t want to dampen the mood, but I need to be honest. “Thank you for what you said to Sam.”

“You don’t have to thank me.” He reaches for my hand. “I meant every word.”

“I’m so lucky.” I will never tire of seeing him smile. “Piper wanted to catch up. I feel like I haven’t seen her in forever.”

Saxon raises my fingers to his lips, kissing them gently. “Whatever you want.”

“I thought we were going on a date?” I arch a brow.

“We can go on a date anytime.”

Even though I really want to see Piper, I was also looking forward to spending the night with Saxon. “Maybe we could do both?”

He chuckles, the deep tenor shooting all the way to my toes. “Sounds interesting, quite possibly dangerous, but okay, I’m game. If that’s what you want.”

A giddy ball of excitement I haven’t felt in so long stirs in my belly. I want to let my hair down and just be me. “Thank you.” I leap up, kissing him over the counter. He tastes like mint and heaven.

Every time I allow myself a small reprieve, though, my guilty conscience rears its ugly head. “You think Sam will listen?”

“For now,” he replies, brushing away my furrow lines. “He’s Sam. He does what he wants.” Just as I’m about to second-guess myself, he puts my uneasiness to bed. “But now, no one can say I didn’t warn him. Go and get ready. Let’s get out of this house. We’re going to go out like a normal couple and have fun.”

I can’t mask my excited little yelp but quickly cover my mouth with embarrassment. I sound like a giddy teenager. Saxon grins, removing my hand gently. “It’s a crime to cover those lips. Unless it’s with my mouth.” It seems so unfair he’s as cool as a cucumber while I’m hyperventilating. But if this is what “normal” with Saxon feels like, then bring it on.

“This is so fun!” Piper shouts, spinning in a circle as we wait in line for our drinks. “Let’s double date every weekend.”

Saxon laughs, wrapping his arm low around my waist and drawing me to his side. “Usually, that involves you bringing your own date along.”

Piper blows a raspberry in response. “Who needs that when I’ve got you guys.” Both Saxon and I don’t bother arguing because Piper was way past rational four beers ago.

Tonight has been amazing. Saxon didn’t let on to where we were going, but the surprise element made it even more exciting. We had lunch at Patsy’s— my favorite burger place in town. The moment I bit into their mushroom burger with extra onions, it was on.

Saxon thought it hilarious that I ordered a burger the size of my head, but when I order something that delicious, I commit to it. It took me an hour, but I finished, much to the delight of Saxon, who said he likes a woman who doesn’t eat like a sparrow.

Thanks to me eating enough food to feed a small nation, we went for a walk through town. At first, it was a little daunting to be seen in public with Saxon. The townsfolk were so used to seeing me with Sam.

It was our first public outing as a couple, so I pushed down my concerns and enjoyed the sunshine and the man who never let go of my hand. I no longer see the resemblances between Saxon and Sam because they’re entirely different people. When Saxon first arrived, I couldn’t help but compare the two, but now, when in the presence of Saxon, I rarely think of Sam.

The guilt will never really subside for feeling that way, but the fact I’m able to move on proves that maybe one day I will make peace with what I did.

Once we were all walked out, we went to pick up Piper. Saxon had retrieved my Jeep from Sawbuck while I was getting ready. I didn’t know how he’d react, considering what happened last night, but he seemed to want to move forward as much as I did.

Piper couldn’t look happier when she saw me and Saxon. The moment she bounced into the car, she threw her arms around me and held on. It was nice that my best friend finally approved of my boyfriend, and that we could all hang out.

Saxon was very secretive about where we were going, but when we pulled up to the big white gates, I couldn’t hold back my happiness. He was taking us to the rodeo. I hadn’t been in years, and I had loved attending with my parents. So it goes without saying that I was excited.

We got front row seats, which most would hate, but not me. I love being close to the action, and I don’t mind getting a little dirty. The moment the animated roar of the crowd hit my ears, I threw my arms around Saxon and thanked him for the best date ever.

Engrossed in the action, I found my mind finally at peace. We all cheered and watched on in delight, the excitement thrumming through our veins. The weirdness I had felt earlier disappeared, and nothing felt more natural than watching the rodeo with my boyfriend and best friend.

Piper, being Piper, made friends with a girl whose boyfriend was a rider. She invited us to a party where all the riders and staff would be after the show, which is where we are now.

Behind the stadium, an old barn was converted into a very cool function area. The beer and fun times flowed freely, and it was exactly what I needed.

I snuggle into Saxon’s side, buzzed but not wasted like Piper. He kisses the top of my head, entertaining Piper as she lists all the appropriate places for our next “date.” Saxon can own a room. He always has. He has this magnetism that draws people in…like the over friendly bartender who all but offers her boobs as a serving tray.

“What can I get y’all?”

“I’ll have a Budweiser,” Piper says, but the bartender barely looks at her.

“And for you, big fella?”

“Just a root beer, thanks.” Saxon is our designated driver. After last night, I think he’s had enough beer to last him a month. “Lucy?” I don’t fail to notice the cloud of jealousy surrounding the bartender.

“Dirty martini.” I place my order, wondering why on earth I opted for a drink I’ve never tried before. It sounded good in my head. Saxon doesn’t hide his surprise, but he smirks while the bartender looks like she just sucked on a sour lemon. An irrational urge to poke out her eyes overwhelms me, but I tell myself to calm down.

It appears my instant distaste for her shows because she curls her lip before turning around to pour our drinks.

I have no idea where this green-eyed monster has come from. I was never this way with Sam. But Saxon isn’t Sam. I feel this immense possessiveness over him and seem to want to mark him as mine and mine alone.

Piper links her arm through mine. “I’ll help you take her down,” she whispers into my ear. Her comment has me realizing I’m not doing a very good job at hiding this irrationality. Thankfully, Saxon looks oblivious.

“Where is this coming from?” I ask from the side of my mouth. “Why do I want to rip out her eyeballs and use them as olives in my martini?”

Piper bursts into laughter. “Because you love him. Primitively. That’s a good thing,” she assures me while I wonder if this is normal. Saxon pays for our drinks while the bartender ensures she touches his hand. My fingernails leave half crescent moons in my palms as I resist the urge to make good on my word.

“You have nothing to worry about. I’ve seen about fifty women eye-fuck him.”

I blanch, tugging at my necklace. “If this is your pep talk, I’d advise you to rethink your material.”

She grins at my utter naivety. “He only has eyes for you.” A relieved breath escapes me, and I can’t help but smile.

Saxon passes us our drinks; however, he pauses, looking back and forth between us while cocking a brow. “Why do I feel like I’m in trouble?”

Piper snatches her beer and smirks. “Oh, you’re in trouble, all right.” She sashays off, leaving me to explain her insanity.

I reach for my drink with a shrug. “I think she ate too much glue as a kid.” Saxon laughs, appeased by my response.

Looping his hand through mine, he leads us toward a huge stack of hay bales. It’s very country, and I love it. We take a seat. When I tuck my cowboy boots beneath me and sip my horrid drink, I feel Saxon watching me.

Scratching over my nose self-consciously, I ask, “What?”

“Nothing,” he replies, but his face tells me it’s not nothing.

“Tell me.”

He considers whether to share his most treasured thoughts, and I’m thankful when he does. “I’m just… Never mind. You’ll laugh.”

“I will not.” When he looks at me suspiciously, I smile and amend, “I’ll try not to.”

Turning serious, he reaches for my hand, rubbing his thumb over my knuckles. “I’m just…happy. I’ve wanted this to happen for so long, but the reality is so much better than I ever imagined.”

“Why would I laugh?” I ask because in no way, shape, or form would I laugh at something so heartfelt.

“Because I had this whole speech planned. It started with—” he clears his throat “—feel my shirt.” I arch a brow, not knowing if he actually wants me to or not. He answers my question a moment later. “Wanna know what it’s made of? Boyfriend material.” He accentuates his sentence with a wink.

I open and close my mouth before pressing my lips shut to hold back my hysterical cackle. It’s pointless, though, and I burst into uncontrollable laughter. This is so like Saxon. We’ve had enough tears to last us a lifetime. Now, it’s time to laugh.

“I thought you said you wouldn’t laugh,” he accuses with a smirk.

“Yeah, but that was before you dropped a line straight outta a frat handbook.” I’m snort giggling so hard, tears leak from my eyes.

He gasps in mock horror. “Are you laughing at me?”

I clutch my sides, wheezing for breath. “Yes, I most certainly am.” His amused expression only adds to my hysteria.

“That’s it. I’ll give you something to laugh about.” He catches me off guard and scoops me onto his lap. I know what I’m in for, but it’s too late to beg for mercy when he tickles me without remorse.

“Stop!” I cry, wiggling like a worm on a hook. But it only encourages him to torture me further. “Okay, okay, I’m sorry.” I’m gasping for breath. When he ceases, I can’t help my smart mouth. “I’m sorry you’re such a cheeseball.”

“Oh, that’s it.” His fingers are relentless as he steps up the ante, ensuring no part of me remains untickled.

Anyone looking on would think we’re completely crazy, but I don’t care. This is the most fun I’ve had in forever.

“Give up!” he demands, continuing to tickle my sides.

“Never!”

“Okay, have it your way then.” One minute, I’m wiggling on his lap, and the next, I’m sprawled on my back, his body covering mine. Our chests are rising and falling, our breaths mingling as one. He pins my arms above me, clasping my wrists in one hand. With his hardened chest pressed against mine, I can’t help the whimper that escapes me. The mood suddenly shifts, and I’m breathless for a whole different reason.

His hair flips forward, his eyes feral as he scours over every inch of my face before working his way down. “Now that I’ve got you, I don’t plan on letting you go.” I know he means that in every way.

A threat has never sounded more welcoming. “Good. I’m quite content where I am.” This man oozes sex appeal. He smirks, and his dimple punches me low. We’re in a room full of people, but no one exists but us. That’s how I forever feel when we’re together.

I don’t know what comes over me, but I’m caught in the moment and decide not to overthink it. “Take me to Oregon.”

“What?” I’ve caught him off guard. It’s a nice change. He loosens his hold, but I don’t move.

“I want to go to Oregon,” I repeat in case he didn’t hear me right the first time around.

“Now? To live?” I giggle, pressing a hand against his chest. He sits upright while I follow.

“Settle down, cowboy. I meant, I want to see what you do. Where you live. And then we’ll take it from there.” When he stares, unmoving, a sense of dread overcomes me. I wet my lips. “I thought you’d be happy.”

“I am!” he shouts, a zap of electricity bringing him back to life. “I’m just a little shocked.”

“Why?”

“Montana is your home.”

“I thought it was, but houses, they come and go. But this—” I press my palm flat on his chest over his heart “—this will be forever.” Saxon shakes his head in awe.

I know this comes as a shock. It does for me too. I’ve been unable to decide because I’m afraid, but I’m tired of being frightened. I have to try because, in the end, you just want to be with the one who makes you laugh. Saxon has breathed new life into me, and I can’t wait to dance beneath the fireworks.

The song changes, and the lights dim. Saxon locks his fingers over mine. The song choice couldn’t be more perfect. “Dance with me?” I nod, too afraid to speak.

When he stands and offers me his hand, I accept. The moment we make contact, I know everything before I love you doesn’t count. This is our second chance, and I intend to embrace it with both hands.

Saxon guides me to the dance floor and smiles when I suddenly swallow, nervous. I can’t remember the last time I danced. “I’ve got you,” he says, pulling me toward him and taking the lead.

I settle against him, allowing Saxon and the music to whisk me away. He holds tight, slow dancing with me to the most beautiful song in the world. But when he leans down and sings the chorus of “Amazed” by Lonestar into my ear, this song will forever be ours.

When he declares his love through the lyrics, crooning that it just keeps getting better, I can’t help the tears. I press my cheek to his chest, locking my arms around his neck. We sway to the music as Saxon serenades me with a voice sent from above.

I close my eyes, lulled into a calm state, the white noise finally fading. On the cusp of paradise, another revelation reveals itself, but I knew it was always there. I want to spend the rest of my life with this man, and just as our background melody states, I’m amazed by Saxon Stone.