Page 28 of Timber's Line

“This is date number three. You ready?” Carlton asks.

I nod for the camera.

“Timber, meet Lucas.”

Lucas Teller. His name has made its rounds. I don’t know much about him, just heard the guys talking about his fights.

“Nice to meet you,” I wave awkwardly.

“Likewise. Our date is horseback riding.”

I nod and follow him. Linc hands him the reins to Sammy and eyes him warily.

I give him a warning look.

Lucas pulls himself up into the saddle with ease, and then pulls me up with him. Not what I was expecting.

“I know you like to ride,” he practically whispers in my ear. I can’t help but blush.

The crew follows on an ATV.

We stop in the meadow where Ever had her wedding.

“Picnic,” he says and helps me down.

“Thank you.” I take his hand and we walk to a blanket set up.

“Sparkling cider.” He hands me a glass and winks.

I giggle. I guess he knows I’m not old enough to drink.

“You’re a fighter,” I say, and he nods.

“And you work with animals.”

“I do. After the dates, I hope to show the ones who remain exactly what I do. Not all of it is as glamourous as red carpets.”

He laughs. “Blood isn’t glamourous either.” He’s got a point.

“What made you do the show?”

“I’m not sure. I know others found love on the show and I hoped I would as well,” I say honestly.

He looks over my shoulder for a moment, his eyes darkening. “Maybe you will.” Cryptic, but okay.

“What do you love about animals?”

“They don’t talk back,” I laugh. “And they’re innocent. They need us to help them because they can’t help themselves.”

“Admirable. Do you like MMA?”

“I do. I watch Memphis and Brick fight.”

“I’m not in the same weight class as Memphis. If I was, I wouldn’t want to fight him. He’s ruthless.” He is.

“What made you come on the show?”

“I was intrigued by the concept. And nothing better to do since I’m not training right now.”