Page 54 of Wilde Hearts

I looked into his eyes…and realized that if I stared for too long, I could easily get lost. “Noon sounds good.”

We stood there for a few moments, neither of us saying a word, before Colt asked, “You’re sure you’re okay?”

Smiling, I replied, “I’m fine.”

He cleared his throat. “They’re about to serve dinner, so…”

“Right. Yes. I’ll let you go so you can use the restroom, or do whatever it was you were going to do in the bathroom. I mean, I know what you’re going to do, but you might need more time to do…um…whatever it is you’re gonna do.”

Another smile grew across that handsome face.

Oh. My. God. What is wrong with me?

I waited for the floor to open up and swallow me.

Taking a step to the side, I pointed in the direction I needed to go. “I’m just going to go now.”

Colt nodded. “I’m just gonna go pee.”

A nervous bubble of laughter slipped free, and before I could do or say anything else, I fled as fast as I possibly could in my high heels.

By the time I made it back to our family’s table, I was out of breath from walking so fast. I slipped into my seat and reached for my napkin, placing it across my lap before grabbing my water and nearly downing the whole thing.

Gatlin leaned in and whispered, “Are you okay?”

“Yes, why wouldn’t I be?” I asked with a forced smile, as the waitress set down our salads.

“Your nose is red and your hands are shaking.”

I whipped my head up to look at my brother. “My nose is not red and my hands…” I held them up to get a look. “Are, in fact, shaking.”

Dropping them back to my lap, I drew in a deep breath.

“Do you want me to go kick his ass? I think he’s in the bathroom. No one will hear his screams. Especially if I flush a lot.”

It took everything I had not to start laughing. Instead, I said, “No, but keep the offer open for future need.”

He winked. “Will do.”

Smiling, I bumped him with my arm. “I love you.”

“Not nearly as much as I love you, sis. But honestly, are you okay?”

“Yes,” I said, as I took his hand in mine and gave it a light squeeze. “At least, I will be. I’m meeting Colt for lunch tomorrow to talk.”

“Want me to come with you?”

I chuckled. “I think I’ll be all right.”

When I looked across the large round table, I caught Emeline’s gaze. I smiled, and she returned the gesture.

“Aunt Ensley?” Katie said, tapping my arm.

“Yes, sweet girl?”

“Can you teach me about horses?”

A feeling I’d never experienced before hit me right in the middle of my chest. “Me? You don’t want Emeline to do that?”