Page 13 of Timber's Line

“I didn’t steal your girl from you. You messed that up all on your own.”

I can see London making his way toward me once he sees who I’m with. I need to hold it together. No, he’s right. He didn’t steal Snow from me, but he made it seem like I was a horrible guy to the press while he helped her heal. And then he dumped her.

“She is a sweet girl.” I turn to strike when London grabs my wrist.

“Easton, knock your shit off,” he hisses.

“I only told the truth.”

I see the signal, and he knows it’s his turn.

“I’m going to wine and dine this little girl.” He sneers in my direction, and it takes everything in London to hold me back.

“He’s an asshole. Leave it.”

“He will hurt her.” I cringe because I showed I care.

London doesn’t say anything.

At first.

“Do you care?” He raises his eyebrows at me.

I don’t say anything, just stalk toward the table. Everyone is staring at me.

McKenna is the first one to even try to talk to me when she hands me a plate. “Don’t let him get to you. And thank you for looking out for Timber.”

Was that what I was doing? Or was I being selfish? Fuck, I’m so messed up.

I eat in silence, then head to the barn, needing to get away. I hear humming again and I know it’s her.

CHAPTERNINE

TIMBER

I have about twenty minutes before my next date. I know who Easton is. He’s been in the news, and I know he and Dayton have history. I stand in front of Turbo’s stall and hum. He likes it. He’s a high-strung horse, but this calms him down a bit.

“That tune is beautiful.” I whirl around to find Dayton leaning up against the door.

“I didn’t mean to startle you.” He steps in and closes the door.

“I didn’t know anyone was in here,” I say softly.

“I was going to go read in my room,” he replies lightly.

“You read?”

He snorts. “I do. Did you think I was just a dumb jock?”

I don’t even know what to say. Our last encounters were heated and angry.

“I want to apologize for my behavior.” He takes a step toward me.

“I forgive you.” I turn and pat Turbo’s head, then move to Sammy’s stall.

“You’re really good with them.” He holds out a sugar cube for Turbo.

“I like being around them. It’s easier to think.”