“My charming personality might not work without a side of molten lava cupcakes. Better to be prepared.”
“Diamond,” Jamieson chastises in his soft voice. “You don’tneedfood to make people like you. Don’t stress. He’ll like you.”
“I know that, but a backup plan never hurts. Few people resist my charms, but I need to be ready.” I wink at Jamieson as he shakes his head. “Chocolate is a solid wingman.”
“Everyone needs your energy, Dee,” Jamieson chuckles. “I won’t deny that.”
“Thank you. I like to think I bring sun to people’s lives with good food and better company. Call it my life’s work, if you will.”
Behind the scenes, that life’s work is a little more complicated, but he doesn’t need to know that. Jamieson is the only one who comes close to matching my energy most days. I’d like him to stay that way.
A large group of people burst through the doors of The Thirsty Cow, and I pat Jamieson on the shoulder. “I’ve got sunshine to spread and caffeine habits to feed, Jay. I’ll see you later.”
Striding away from Jamieson, I smile at the fresh faces in my place of business and do what I do best. Flirt and make a wicked latte.
The group is charming enough. All of them are out-of-town businessmen who heard of The Thirsty Cow and the cute blond man with amazing legs who owns the place. Flattery will get you everywhere. There isn’t a compliment I won’t accept with a smile.
They’re a respectful group, but don’t hide the way they enjoy the view of my ass and legs from behind. The latte machine is like a mirror, and I catch most of their perusal, unknown tothem. Do I dress in snug-fit jean shorts and cowboy boots for attention? Of course I do, and I always like it. Knowing men still desire me is the one thing my brain needs to keep functioning.
I don’t always have to go home with them. I just need to know they wouldn’t mind it if I did.
“Well, I’m flattered you heard such kind words about me and The Thirsty Cow. I hope it lives up to the hype.” Sliding the last maple latte to the remaining man, he leans over the counter and gently grabs my wrist.
“You’re better than described, Diamond. If you don’t mind me being so forward…you’re stunningly beautiful.” The man’s gaze drops to my lips before returning to my face. “You know we’re here overnight if you wanted to show us more of your hospitality.”
The man’s voice is low, and there’s no mistaking what he’s asking me for. It’s not the first time, and it won’t be the last. While it’s the confirmation I always crave, it’s not the man I want the invitation from.
“I appreciate that, but I have plans, Sug.”
He relaxes his grip and steps back with a nod. “Our loss then.” He raises his cup. “Thank you for the experience, Diamond. Have a day as beautiful as you.” The man lingers for a beat before leaving to join the others already outside.
His words make me smile, though, and I appreciate that.
My thoughts turn back to Rhett and the cupcakes I’ve baked until I created the perfect one that might impress him.
Dad gave them a thumbs up, but what if the dark and broody cowboy doesn’t like chocolate? Is that even possible?
If so, I’m willing to overlook it.
True love can overlook flaws like that, after all.
He’ll love them. Now I just need to meet him.
two
Rhett
Country music fills the cab of my truck as I glance in the tow mirror to check on the horse trailer behind me.
Wilbur has to be exhausted, and I should probably stop and let him have a stretch, but I’m almost at Kissing Ridge. I just want a hot shower and to sleep for a week. All this driving and moving takes a toll. I’m looking forward to not staring out a windshield for a while.
Tater, my beagle mix, whines on the seat next to me.
“Let me guess. You need a break, too?”
Tater nudges my thigh with her nose, and I smooth the fur on her head. “I guess we’re all making a pit stop, then.”
I’ve travelled this highway enough times driving to rodeos that I know there’s a rest stop to suit a horse and a curious dog in a few more kilometres. Probably wouldn’t be a bad idea for me to take a break from behind the wheel as well.
