Page 40 of Knot The Only Onee

“James?” Bridget called, her voice filled with despair.

No, no, no. I couldn’t watch her crying over me.

I shook my head, grabbed my hat and coat, and ran out the door and toward the barn.

I needed to clear my head, and the only way to do that would be with a good ride across the pasture.

On autopilot, I brought Sage out of her stall and got her saddle. After I finished, I placed my foot in the stirrup and swung my leg over.

“Good girl, Sage.” I ran my hand up and down her strong neck. “Let’s go for a good run. How’s that sound?”

She stamped her feet and gave me an approving whinny.

I barely even squeezed my thighs together before she took off onto the familiar trail.

I stayed out until the last rays of sun were setting over the horizon. I would have stayed out even longer, but I knew Sage needed a rest, and Lucas would likely scold me for how I behaved.

As I groomed and rubbed Sage down, I thought more about Bridget. I’d been processing our relationship the entire time I was out. There was little else to think of.

Well, other than Ashlei.

Fuck. I screwed up.

“Wish me luck, Sage. Hopefully, Lucas doesn’t murder me.” Sage just tossed her head and snorted, demanding I give her her treat. I retrieved the apple I’d brought for her, which she munched on happily as if I existed only to provide her snacks.

With a heavy sigh, I strode toward the house, preparing to receive my tongue lashing.

Hm. Maybe afterward, I’d make Lucas use that wicked tongue in some other areas.

CHAPTER19

Bridget

Iskidded to a halt at the entrance to the kitchen and watched as James grabbed his stuff and left the house like he couldn’t wait to be rid of me. Letting out a sharp exhale, I rubbed at my chest, trying to soothe the growing ache.

“Darlin’, come here,” Lucas whispered and opened his arms for me.

The tears didn’t start until I was secure in his embrace. My fingers curled into the fabric of his soft shirt as I inhaled his familiar scent. “I’m sorry, Lucas.”

I wasn’t sure what I was sorry about, but I was. Sorry for crying. Sorry for driving James away. Sorry for the sadness lingering in his heart.

“Shh,” Lucas cooed while he ran his hands up and down my back. “James has a hard time with emotions. Today is a particularly tough day for him. I know he can be an ass, but just give him a bit of time.”

With a shaky exhale, I withdrew from his embrace and wiped away the tears lingering on my face. “It feels like as soon as I take a step forward with him, something happens, and I’m two steps back again.”

Lucas gave a strained smile but touched my cheek again. “I have an idea. Why don’t I make you an incredibly delicious picnic for tomorrow, and you go out with James and have a heart-to-heart? Sometimes you have to hit him upside the head with a shovel to get his stubborn butt moving.”

He pulled my face forward with his hand under my chin. “Or a cleverly timed make-out session.” His words purred as his lips brushed against mine, teasing and tantalizing. “Want to practice?”

This incredible beta was the only one of the trio who hadn’t held back his desire to be with me. He was always so honest, even though it scared me initially, but his kindness, playfulness, and smiles broke down my walls.

I wanted to kiss him. I wanted to be held by him. Even if I had only known them for two weeks.

I know I had tried to convince myself that it was wrong before, but these men were meant to be mine.

Lucas began to step back, but my hand on his chest stopped him. His bright eyes were curious as he watched me.

“Bridget?” His voice had deepened, making goosebumps form along my arms.