Page 34 of Bouquets and Buckles

“Remember all that when the next guy comes along.”

Chapter 24

My house is filled with people, music, and laughter.

Brad is in his fucking element, practically buzzing with joy as he makes sure everyone is enjoying themselves and putting on one heck of a night to celebrate the ranch.

I gotta hand it to him, the kid knows the value of networking and beingpeopley. Thank fuck he’s got the gift because I certainly don’t.

Instead, I’ve been firmly planted in front of the grill, keeping busy with the night air for company and an excuse to be away from the crowd. There are plenty of people I know here tonight, and most have sought me out for a chance to chat and catch up, shooting the shit before heading back inside into the warm.

Another reason I’ve kept myself occupied in this spot, is to not follow Skylar around like some kind of stray dog. The girl deserves a night with her friends, and I wish it was a different set of circumstances between us, but it’s easier this way.

The night is crisp, not below freezing, but cold enough that I’ve been pleased to have a hot flame to warm myself in front of.

It’s getting closer to midnight, and I know I should probably put in an appearance inside. Mingle, or some shit.

Just as I’m steeling myself to enter the house, my phone buzzes in my pocket. That small vibration sends a twitch through my lips and a jerk straight to my cock.

Sweetheart:

Where are you?

Outside, packing up the grill.

Having fun?

Not as much asif you were here.

I know you’ve been hiding.

I catchmyself smirking at my phone like a goddamn teenager.

How much have you had to drink?

Not much,a couple earlier on.

Aren’t you enjoying yourself?

I’ve been waitingfor midnight…

What happens at midnight?

You meetme at the barn.

A dark groanescapes out of me as I scrub one hand over my mouth at the sight of those six words on screen.

I don’t think that’s possible.

There are too many people. How are you gonna slip away?

I’ve already toldBrad my parents want to video call me at twelve, so I’ll need to disappear off somewhere quiet to chat with them.

Don’t you think it’s too risky?

Well,either you meet me there and fuck me at midnight, or you can watch me ride my fingers until I make myself come when I send you the video.

Your choice.