Page 48

Story: The Wrangler

And then there was Reed.

Her big brother looked pained, staring at them like he needed something stronger than whiskey to get through this moment.

Keely arched an eyebrow. “Say something, Reed.”

Her brother raked a hand through his hair. “I need a goddamn drink.”

“There’s one in front of you,” laughed Gavin.

“I need another.”

Laughter erupted around the seating area reserved for them. Jesse’s arm tightened around her waist, his voice easy, steady. “Don’t worry, Reed. I’ll take good care of her.”

Reed narrowed his eyes. “You better.”

She saw something pass between them—something unspoken, something solid. Keely let out a slow breath. Reed would always be overprotective, but he knew Jesse. Trusted him, and that was enough.

Gavin grinned. “With that settled, it’s time for a toast.” “To Jesse and Keely. May their fights be short, their make-ups be legendary, and Reed not have a stroke.”

Dawson laughed. “May Keely always find lots of new ways to make Jesse’s life interesting.”

Hawke chuckled. “Like she needs help with that.”

Jesse shot him a look, but Keely just beamed, taking the drink Dawson handed her.

She turned, standing on her toes to press a slow kiss to Jesse’s jaw. “Ready for forever, cowboy?”

Jesse’s voice was dark with promise as he vowed, “I’ve always been ready.”