#waitress!black!reader

There truly was nothing quite like a Kansas summer. 

The humidity made your already form-fitting t-shirt conform to your curves like a second skin and all that work you did to tame your coils were for naught. You adjusted your shirt as best you could and made your way towards the back door of the Ragin’ Bull, Creek Spring’s oldest and rowdiest bar. 

Creek Springs, Kansas was one of those towns you blow right through, a little blip on your way to your final destination. It wasn’t without its charms, though: beautiful, ornate architecture juxtaposed with modern stores, cozy shops and businesses, and most of the denizens were the epitome of Midwestern hospitality. Nothing short of one of those towns you see in movies or on a postcard. 

“Well, well, look who’s back!” Maurice Jenkins, former quarterback for the Creek Springs Prairie Dogs and current line cook, let out a low whistle as he said your name. “The West Coast treated you mighty well, didn’t it?”

“And the Midwest kept you just the same, didn’t it, Mo?”

Two of the other cooks, Carter Laskey and Joel Pearce, cackled behind him. 

Mo nodded towards the door leading to the main area. “Boss is waitin’ for you out front.”

You made your way to the door when Mo called to you. 

“Hey, I heard about your mama. Give her m’best, yeah?”

You gave him a small smile. “Thanks, Mo.”

A wave of nostalgia hit you as soon as you crossed the threshold.  

Your eyes scanned the packed floor and you saw some familiar faces: Jeremiah Clayton, a veteran barfly, was drunkenly swaying to the clean electric guitar slicing through the air. Your late father’s former coworker, Ben Grant, was sitting with his wife, Rachel, in their usual booth near the old jukebox you were certain was more decoration than functional. The disco ball that you watched your father and uncles help install still above the dance floor. 

Then there was the subtle differences to the Bull itself. The tables weren’t the sticky laminate top that you were sure were donated from the local church in the fifties but were beautifully stained mahogany. The bar glasses were uniform and nice crystal instead of the cheap red, hard plastic cups of your youth. Guess Doc Lowell meant it when he said that Lou was cleaning the place up. 

“You lost, darlin’?”

You turned. He had to be at least over six foot the way he towered over you. His dark brows were pulled down, blue eyes giving you a once over. He wasn’t overly muscular but from the way his biceps flexed as his arms were crossed, you could see subtle muscle definition. The black t-shirt he wore was stretched over a broad chest and broad shoulders. But what did you in was the full, silvery hair that curled along his shoulders. Your fingertips itched to run through the tendrils, lightly scratch along his scalp. 

“Uh, no. My shift starts tonight.”

He lifted a brow and leaned in closer to you, a smile stretching along his lips. “And what’s a pretty face like you doin’ in a rough place like this?”

“Old men like to tip pretty faces well.”

His laugh was low and warm, a rumble of thunder before a summer storm. “That they do. ‘M sure you get tipped the best in this joint.” He held a hand out to you. “Wade Garrett.”

Your face warmed. “The fixer guy?”

He ran a hand through his thick mane. “Oh, I don’t know about that. I’m just here lendin’ a hand.”

You hummed. “So do I answer to you or is Lou still my boss?”

“Bit o’ both. For now, everybody’s been answerin’ to me. Lou’s just watchin’ and learnin’.”

“Okay, then.” You smoothed down the front of your shirt. “Where do you need me, Mr. Garrett?”

Something passed in his blue eyes and one of his large hands cupped your elbow. “Mr. Garrett’s my father. ‘M Wade, honey.”

“My mama raised me with manners so I’m goin’ to call you Mr. Garrett,” you said, smirking. “Now where do you need me?”

Wade chuckled, shaking his head some. “What did Lou bring you on for?”

“When I was in high school, I used to wait tables.” You straightened up some. “I was a bar-back in college to help pay for school.”

“How about this? Help behind the bar and we’ll circle back at the end of the night?”

You nodded and turned on your heel to leave. You were about halfway to the bar when you realized that you never gave him your name. 

By nine o’clock, the bar was in full swing. The band, a local group of high school kids that you recognized as the siblings of some of your former classmates, played the soundtrack of the chaotic event. A few patrons made attempts to grab at you from behind the bar but Vicki James, one of your mother’s best friends and veteran bar back, signaled for Grant Torrence, the bouncer, to escort them out. 

“Bull ain’t changed much since you left, huh, Dandy girl?”

You snorted. “I think I’d be disappointed if it changed completely.” 

“Aw, so you did miss us.” 

You lightly swatted at her with one of the bar towels. You caught sight of Wade out of the corner of your eye; he was leaned up against the far side of the bar, his arms crossed tight along his broad chest. He seemed so…ordinary compared to the legends you heard about him from Lou. You were expecting someone the size of Grant: big, broad, and solid. Built like a brick house with sharp, icy eyes and several tattoos peeking out from beneath the collar of his shirt. To be fair, Grant was a sweetheart outside of the bar, always volunteering at the church or spending time with his wife and two little girls. 

But Wade had this way about him that perplexed you. He wasn’t this foreboding figure but you’d seen in more than one instance as the night progressed that grown men younger and older than him didn’t dare test him. Hell, even one of Percy McTavish’s guys cowered when Wade stepped to him. 

“You keep starin’ like that and he’ll catch you.”

You jumped and Vicki stifled her giggles beside you. “Jesus!”

“I never pegged you as the silver fox type,” she said, raising a brow. 

“‘M not lookin’ at him.”

“Mm-hmm, and I’m ten feet tall.” She bumped her hip against yours. “How you been, honey?”

You frowned. “What do you mean?”

She gave you a flat look. “You just uprooted your life to take care of your mother. That’s a huge adjustment.”

Your eyes went to the glass in your hand. “She’s been so lonely since Daddy passed. I couldn’t let her go through this alone.” 

“Doc said that she ain’t been goin’ to her appointments. How’s she supposed to get better if she won’t get help?”

“She’s scared, Vicki.” You turned to face her. “She told me last night that she might stop treatment soon.”

Vicki’s brown eyes widened. “And what did you tell her?”

“I told her that I support her decision and I’ll be here for her.” You sighed. “As much as I don’t like it, it’s not my choice to make.”

She shook her head. “I told her I’d help if she needed me.”

“You know how Mama is. Proud as a lion when she wants to be.”

“Well, well, the prodigal daughter returns,” a voice drawled. 

Vicki turned back towards the bar. “What can we get you, Danny?”

“Dandy knows my order.”

“I used to,” you answered, wiping down the other end of the bar. “People change in ten years.”

“I’ll take a bourbon. Neat.” Vicki nodded and Danny shifted to the seat in front of you. “How you been? Mama told me that you moved back but I didn’t believe her.”

“Your Mama’s never been a liar.”

“Hey,” he put a hand over yours, “I heard about Miss Alma. ‘M sorry.”

“Thank you. I’ll pass on the sentiments.”

Danny leaned back some, a wide smile on his full lips. “What time you off? We should catch up.”

“Here’s your bourbon.” Vicki cut in between you and Danny, setting the glass down on the bar top. “$4.25.”

Danny’s brows creased. “It was $3 a few weeks ago.”

“And now it’s $4.25.” Your eyes flitted up, Wade clapping a hand onto Danny’s left shoulder. Your mouth went dry at how big it was. “Now, you’re not botherin’ my staff, are you? ‘Cause I’d sure hate to have my buddy Grant escort you out.”

Danny shook his head. “No, sir, Dandy and I was just catchin’ up.” His brown eyes lazily dragged up and down your form. “Ain’t that right?”

“Actually, Mr. Garrett, Danny was just leavin’.” You carefully took the glass from his grasp and dumped it down the sink, your bored gaze never leaving Danny. “Ain’t that right?”

He kissed his teeth and let out a hard scoff. “I’ll see you around, Dandy.” He shrugged off Wade’s grip and gave the older man a once over before leaving the bar. 

Wade turned back to you and Vicki. “You all right?”

She waved him off. “Danny’s just stuck in the past. He’s harmless.”

His eyes were on you. “You sure, sugar?”

You blinked and stuttered out a yes. “Danny’s just an old classmate. He won’t be a problem to the bar.” 

Wade grunted. “Nobody said anythin’ about the bar, darlin’.”

“Don’t worry, Wade,” Vicki cut in, “nobody’s gon’ hurt our little Dandy girl. This is a family town.” She pulled you into her side and planted a sloppy kiss to your cheek. “Her mama’s been my best friend for 30 years, y’know?”

“That right?”

“Mm-hmm. She was Miss Rodeo Queen Kansas by the time we graduated high school.” Vicki nodded towards you. “Been takin’ care of Miss Dandy here since she was in diapers.”

“Vicki…”

She held her hands up. “All right, all right, I’ll stop.” She lightly swatted at you and went to take care of another customer, leaving you and Wade alone. 

“I’ll make sure that he doesn’t come back if you don’t want him to.”

You shook your head. “Don’t pay Danny any mind. He just has a hard time of lettin’ things go. I’ll be fine.”

“Let me take you home tonight.”

“I don’t think that’s appropriate, Mr. Garrett.” You smirked. “This town’s small enough for gossip to bloom quicker than you can blink.”

“Didn’t you know, darlin’? I’m already the talk of the town.”

Last call came and went and you and Vicki were taking liquor inventory for the night when Lou called you into his office. 

It felt odd being in the room without your father in tow, like you were a child in the principal’s office. Framed pictures of Lou’s life, parts of yours, and Creek Springs itself hung from the mahogany walls and adorned every tabletop. What he was most proud of hung above his desk: a signed picture of him and Muddy Waters from ’75 at a blues bar in Chicago. 

“Take a seat, Dandy. You always make me nervous when you’re just standin’ there.”

You smiled. “You never call me in here unless I did somethin’ wrong or you need somethin’, Louis Winslow.” You took a seat in the chair in front of his desk. “Better?”

“Much.” His hazel eyes bored into yours, a fond smile on his lips. “You’ve grown up on me, Dandy. I don’t like it.”

“You’ll always be evergreen to me, Lou.” He had gray hairs at his temples and beginning to show in his beard, but still had that smile that crinkled his eyes at the sides. He was still a broad man — all strong shoulders and back, like a sturdy wall. 

He was like an uncle to you and one of your father’s best friends. “So, what’s up?”

“Just wanted to see how you were doin’, first night and all.” He clasped his hands together. “How you likin’ Wade? He treatin’ you well?”

You lifted your shoulders. “He treats me like an employee. I haven’t spoken to him much, though.”

“Vicki told me that Danny showed up. Tried talkin’ to you.”

“You know Danny,” you rolled your eyes, “he’s just…stuck in the past. I’m sure he’ll find some nice piece to distract himself with soon enough.”

“Wade mentioned that he wanted to take you home tonight. To be on the safe side, of course.”

You raised a brow. “And he asked your permission before mine?”

Lou held his palms up. “I told him that he needed to discuss that with you! He’s old fashioned like that, I s’pose.”

“And, what, he just expects me to leave my car behind? And how would I explain that to Mama? She stays up to wait for me.”

“Now, hol’ on, hol’ on, calm down!” He leaned forward and took hold of one of your hands. “He was real adamant on you goin’ with him, so I’ll tell you what: I’ll drive your car ‘round back and keep it covered. I’ll tell Vicki to pick you up for work tomorrow.”

You narrowed your eyes. “And just why do you care about me gettin’ a ride from Wade Garrett?”

“Anybody willin’ to care about you is good in my book, sugar, you know that.” He gave you a warm smile. “Your mama would have my hide if somethin’ happened to you on my watch.” 

“Lou…”

“There ain’t no funny business, Dandy, Hand to God.” His easy smile didn’t falter, his brown eyes almost pleading. 

After another ten seconds passed between you, you let out a defeated groan and agreed. “But I’m givin’ your new buddy a piece of my mind.”

Lou chuckled. “I’d be surprised if you didn’t, Dandy.”

“Night, Dandy.” Grant scooped you into a bear hug. “I’ll have to tell the girls that you’re back so they can plan a day to see you and your mama.”

You smiled, stepping out of his embrace. “We’d like that very much. How old are my babies now? Twelve and nine?”

Grant smiled brightly. “You remember!”

“‘Course I did! I babysat little Tasha while Jeannie was pregnant with Lisa-Lee.” Tasha was such a shy little girl back then, but she opened up to you and became one of your favorite people. “Give them my love and I’ll see you tomorrow night.”

He nodded and waved goodbye, Wade coming towards you from behind him. His arms were crossed along his chest and he had a wry smile on his lips. 

“Didn’t know I was in the presence of celebrity.”

You playfully waved him off. “’Creek Springs is just very small. ‘M pretty sure half the town knew about my college acceptance before I did.” You put a hand on your hip and held his steely gaze. “So you askin’ Lou for permission to take me home behind my back?”

Wade let out a nervous sound as he ran a hand through his locks. “I should’ve asked you first, darlin’, I know.”

“I’m capable of takin’ care of myself, Mr. Garrett.” You moved a few steps closer to him. “And while I appreciate your concern, I don’t think it’s appropriate for me to get a ride from you.”

“That so?”

You nodded, your throat dry all of a sudden. 

He took a step towards you, the heat from his body up against your front. “How’s about you do me a favor then, darlin’? You let me take you home tonight and, from now on, I’ll make sure to get your permission from now on.”

You giggled. “You don’t need my permission for anythin’, Mr. Garrett. ‘M just sayin’ that I’m a grown woman and I’d like to be treated like one.” You tilted your head to the side. “But I guess I can let you take me home since you went through all the trouble.”

“I’m just outside.”

“Absolutely not.”

Wade looked over at you, his lips curling into a smirk. “What?.”

You clutched your purse to your side, unease clawing at your chest. “When Lou told me you were takin’ me home, I assumed it would be in a car.”

The sleek, black Harley seemed darker against the backdrop of the road behind it, almost invisible. Your mother drilled into your head that you were never to ride on the back of a motorcycle. They were a quick ticket to never coming home. 

He lifted a shoulder, a wry smile on his lips. “Don’t tell me you’re scared of motorcycles, darlin’?”

You pursed your lips. “‘M not scared of them. I just…Mama said that they’re dangerous and I’ve never looked at one since.”

“I thought you lived in L.A.?”

“I do,” you sniffed, “Doesn’t mean that I’m ridin’ around on the damned things.” 

He strides up to you, his blue eyes burning into yours. His cologne smelled of sandalwood and cedar and it filled your lungs. “Tell you what: I’ll give you my helmet and drive as slow as I can, just for you.”

“Why did you offer to take me home?”

“A man can’t offer someone a ride?”

Your breath caught. “I’m just sayin’ that this could be misconstrued as somethin’ that it isn’t to the rest of the crew.” 

Wade waved off your words. “I ain’t lived this long carin’ much for what other people think o’me.”

“How nice for you,” you murmured offhandedly. 

“If anybody says anythin’ to you, tell ‘em to talk to me.” That same simmering gaze he wore when he spoke to you after Danny left was back. It sent shivers up and down your spine, would’ve sent you to your knees if you weren’t so entranced by his gaze. 

“Anybody ever tell you how shameless you are?”

“Anybody ever tell you you’re really bad at stallin’?” he teased, smiling broadly. “C’mon now. Get on the bike.”

Your stomach flipped. His tone was firm with something else behind it. Not angry, not bored, not annoyed. No, he said them in a way that made you hot all over. 

“You promise to drive slow?”

Wade put one hand on his chest and the other palm up to you. “Hand to God.”

“I’m sorry.”

Your palms were slick with sweat, clasped in a vice tight grip around Wade’s torso. Though awkward, you managed to burrow your helmet clad head against the back of his shoulder blade. Your eyes were screwed shut. 

“S’fine, darlin’. I’ll move as soon as you’re ready.”

You were being difficult, you knew that, but you couldn’t help it. How he managed to coax you onto the back of the bike was almost akin to sorcery. But now that you were on it, you were frozen with fear. Your calves strained along either side of the body of the bike, the burn of the tension adding to your trepidation. 

“What’s your favorite ice cream?”

“What?”

“What’s your favorite ice cream?” he repeated. “Vanilla, chocolate?”

“Pecan praline. If I can’t find that, butter pecan.”

Wade grunted. “You’re one of those, huh?”

“Don’t tell me you’re one of those pecan haters, Mr. Garrett.”

“I never much cared for pecans. More an almond or walnut man myself.”

You let out a soft chuckle. “Remind me to bring you some of my mama’s pecan bars. They’ll change your life. Hand to God.”

His laugh reverberated through you, a smile curving into the corners of your mouth. 

“I’ll take your word for it, darlin’.” He turned to glance at you over his shoulder. “How you feelin’?”

“Better,” you answered, nodding, “I think I’m ready.”

“All right. Just hold on tight and keep the wind guard over your eyes.” 

“That wasn’t so bad, was it?”

You were leaning in front of the small mirror trying to fluff out your hair. “Y’know, it wasn’t.” You glanced at him over your shoulder, a corner of your mouth lifted. “Maybe those guys in LA had the right idea.”

“You ain’t got to go to LA just to ride a bike, darlin’,” he chuckled, “I’ll teach you how to ride whenever you want.”

You ignored the thrum of pleasure that went down your spine at his words and straightened up, turning to face him. “Thank you for the ride home, Mr. Garrett. Even though I think it’s unnecessary, I still appreciate it.”

Wade nodded. “Anytime. But I’ll warn you: if that Danny kid comes near you again at the bar, I’ll do a lot worse than sic Grant on ‘im.”

You smiled. “I can take care of myself, Mr. Garrett, don’t you worry.”

“Oh, I ain’t worried about that at all, honey.” He ran a hand through his silvery tresses. “Doesn’t mean I won’t keep it from gettin’ to that point if I can help it.”

“And just why would somethin’ happenin’ to me matter to you, Mr. Garrett? We’ve only just met.”

He chuckled. “I have a feelin’ you’ll be someone I’ll never forget.”

“Sounds like you had an interestin’ first night back.” Your mother was sitting at the kitchen table, a smirk on her lips. 

You set your keys on the console and started toeing off your shoes. “Mama, why are you still awake? It’s well past midnight.” 

“I wanted to know how your first day went!” She put her palm against the surface of the table, steadying herself. 

“Mama,” you quickly crossed the room and took hold of her right wrist, “don’t overexert yourself.”

A wet cough left her lips and your heart sank. She leaned into you as the fit subsided. “‘M fine, baby.”

You helped sit back in her chair. “Since you’re up, did you want me to make you somethin’ to eat?”

She waved you off. “Tell me about your day, baby girl. Who brought you home on that bike?”

“Just one of the guys from the Bull. It’s nothin’ big.” She raised a brow. “I’m sure you’ve heard about that famous bouncer. The one that Lou hired to clean up the Bull?”

“He mentioned hirin’ somebody before you came back. Something Garrett.” Her brown eyes rounded some. “He drove you home? What happened to your car?”

You snorted. “You remember Danny Hyde? From high school? He showed up tonight and started carryin’ on and Lou got worried. Thought he’d try somethin’ once I was on my way home and asked Mr. Garrett if he’d take me home. The car’s at the bar and Vicki’s picking me up for our shift. Everythin’s fine.”

“I never liked that Danny Hyde.” 

“Yeah, well, some people never change.” You put a hand over hers and smiled. “How was your day? Did Mara stop by?”

She rolled her eyes.

“Mama, I agreed to your terms to stop treatment. I didn’t agree to leavin’ you alone.”

“I’m not a child — ”

“You’re sick, Mama.” She stopped. “You’re really, really sick and you’re actin’ like everythin’s fine when it’s not.” Tears glistened in your eyes. “Why won’t you let them help you? Is it because of Daddy?”

She sighed. “When… your daddy died, a part of me did with him. I won’t deny that. But we’d known for years that I was only goin’ to get worse.”

You frowned. “What?”

“I went to get a check up when you were in high school. Your sophomore year, I think.” She let out a shaky breath. “At first, the tumor was benign. They removed it before you were home from school. Then, a few months after your daddy died, I went for another routine check up and it was back. Had spread too fast to contain.”

“That’s when you called me.” She nodded. “You must’ve been so scared.”

“I’m so sorry, baby.” She wiped at her face, catching tears with the pad of her thumb. “I never wanted to burden you with this.”

“Mama, you’re never a burden.” You pulled her into a hug. “We’re doin’ this together, no matter what.”

“You’re takin’ care of your mama instead of livin’ your life! That ain’t a burden to you?”

“You listen here, Geraldine Estelle,” she cocked her head, a sharp brow raised, “You’ve been by my side since I came into this world and I’ll be by yours until you’re gone, you hear me? But until then, I need you to let me help you. Let me take care of you.”

She let out a short laugh, wiping your tears. “You’re just as dramatic as your daddy.”

“You’re the same way, old woman.”

She scoffed. “Now, tell me more about this Mr. Garrett.”

You lifted a shoulder. “There’s not much to tell. Everybody at the Bull likes him, says he’s the best thing that’s ever happened to Creek Springs. He seems nice from the little I’ve talked to him.”

“Well, it was nice of him to take you home.”

You chuckled, shaking your head. “I’ve already thanked him, Mama. Now let’s get you back upstairs and go to bed, yeah?”

Your mother chuckled as you helped her to her feet. “You should invite him over for dinner. So that I can properly thank him.”

“I’ll think about it.”

“Well, lookie here! She lives!”

You rolled your eyes as you got into Vicki’s Mustang. “Ha, ha.”

“Oh, don’t be like that! Me and Lou were just worried about you and wanted to make sure that Danny didn’t try nothin’.”

“Danny Hyde couldn’t tell left from right on a sober day. I highly doubt he’d try anythin’ funny with me.” You let down the passenger mirror to apply your mascara. “I had to ride on the back of a motorcycle.”

Vicki chuckled. “Wade actually got you on the back of that thing?”

You gave her a flat look. “The point is that I think y’all were blowin’ the whole Danny thing out of proportion and didn’t need to ask Mr. Garrett to step in. I can take care of myself.” 

“No one said you can’t.” She put a hand on your knee. “It’s okay to let people help you. ‘Specially family.”

The words gave you pause. Suddenly you thought of your mother; how her pride kept her alone more than you cared for. You nodded, closing the flap to the mirror. 

“So is he as dreamy as you thought he was?” 

“He was a perfect gentleman, thank you very much.” You cut her a glance. “But, yeah, he kind of was.”

“That why you gettin’ all gussied up to see him?”

You pouted. “I am not! I get better tips when I wear makeup. You know that.” 

“Mm-hmm,” Vicki hummed. “If that’s what you’re tellin’ yourself, Dandy girl.”

“Anyway,” your hands plaited and coiffed your hair, “do you know why he’s calling us in so early today?”

She shrugged. “I think he said somethin’ about learnin’ new drink recipes. He’s turnin’ the Bull into one of those fancy-schmancy places you see in the movies.”

“He’s tryin’ to turn the Bull into a respectable business. Lou’s been losin’ money left and right from all the hooligans scarin’ off the tourists and the locals too scared to come in.” You leaned back in the passenger seat. “I think it’s admirable.”

Vicki gave you a knowing smirk before she pulled out of your mother’s driveway. 

“So what’s with you and that Danny fella? He an ex of yours or somethin’?”

You made a face. “I wouldn’t say that we dated so much as we went to the roller rink on the weekends with the same friend group. Then, sophomore year, I let him kiss me in the bed of his daddy’s F-150.” You shuddered. “Got more spit on my chin than he did kiss me and he kept squeezin’ my shoulder all tight.”

Wade laughed; a deep, warm sound that you wanted to hear more of. “That wasn’t your first kiss, I hope.”

“My first high school one, I’m afraid.” You shook your head. “I didn’t even think he was anythin’ special. I felt kind of sorry for him actually.”

“Why?”

“He used to talk about me like I was some kind of dream, y’know? Like a heroine in a story. But I was just a person. Same as I am now.” You lifted a shoulder. “I guess I thought I was bein’ nice.”

“It ain’t your fault that most men take kindness as consent,” Vicki piped up. She was carrying two baskets of mozzarella sticks and french fries from the kitchen. You and Wade had jumped away from each other but you could tell from her syrupy smile that Vicki still caught you. “Nice or not, y’all haven’t seen each other in a decade. You’ve changed and he’s stayed the same and he should respect that.”

“Yeah, well, if I keep ignorin’ him, he’ll back off.”

Wade and Vicki shared a look. 

“What was that?”

“I’ve been in this business for twenty years and a man a whole lot longer, sweetheart.” A grave expression colored his features. “Men like Danny don’t respect women enough to learn the difference ‘tween bein’ nice and likin’ someone.”

You let out a snort. “All right, enough about Danny.” You turned to face Wade. “So are we hostin’ someone special tonight?”

“Not that I know of.” He leaned in close to you. “That why you got all dolled up?”

“You know me, Mr. Garrett. Always gunnin’ for the best tips.” Your eyes dragged up and down his figure. “Why? You don’t like me gettin’ all dolled up for work?”

He let out a rough chuckle, rubbing at the back of his neck. “It’d be inappropriate to tell you how much I like it, sweetheart.”

Despite the stutter in your chest, you smiled.  

“I have no problems kickin’ out the son of a bitch that makes you uncomfortable.”

You raised a brow, your cheek dimpling. “You in the habit of startin’ fights wherever you go, Mr. Garrett?”

Wade’s smile was wide and boyish. 

“Only when I know I’ll win ‘em.”

“Well, ain’t you a sight for sore eyes?”

Oh, great.

You looked up towards the voice and gave your sweetest smile. “Evenin’, Cora. What can I get you tonight?”

Cora Bryce was the girl when you were in high school. Tall and beautiful, she was the most popular girl in school. Her parents were one of the few affluent families in Creek Springs so, of course, she always had the latest fashions and accessories. You’d known Cora Bryce since the first grade. While she was curt and borderline rude, she’s always been an intentional person. Her words, be they insults or backhanded compliments, were carefully strung together. Even her worst insult sang like poetry. But she’s never been outright cruel. That didn’t suit her. 

“I didn’t believe Louise when she said that you’d moved back and yet,” she made a swinging motion with her hands, “here you are.”

You put a hand on your hip. “Did you know what you wanted to order?”

“Oh, yeah. Um, can you get me a lemon drop?” You turned away from her to start making her drink. “‘Member when you said at prom that you felt sorry for me? ‘Cause all I’d ever be is the high school prom queen?”

“I also remember you tryin’ to fight me over Isaiah Landon because you didn’t like that he asked me to prom in the first place.” You set the drink down in front of her. “That’ll be $5 even, honey.”

Cora wrinkled her nose. “Seriously? This ain’t Wichita.”

“It’s our new pricin’, Cora, I don’t make the rules.” 

She slammed the note on the counter and gave you a tight smile. “So you couldn’t make it in California? Weren’t you valedictorian?”

“Cora, I’m sure Louise couldn’t help herself in tellin’ you why I came back, so cut the shit. We’re grown now. You don’t have to like me and I don’t have to like you and we can keep high school in high school.” You leaned in closer to her, your features darkened. “But what I won’t allow is you makin’ light of my mama’s condition. Deal?”

She made a face but nodded in agreement. “‘M sorry about your mama. Genuinely.”

“Thank you.” You nodded to her left hand. “Congratulations.”

Cora frowned some before following your gaze. “Oh! Yeah, me and Isaiah got married two years ago.”

You gave her a small smile. “I always thought y’all were a handsome couple. Y’know, all things considerin’.”

She chuckled. “I was horrible to you back then, wasn’t I?”

“You were,” you agreed, “but like I said; we’re grown now.”

Cora smiled. “Yeah, we are. Listen, do you want to hang out this weekend? Louise and I have brunch at this cute little place an hour from here. Join us.” You were frozen. She must’ve interpreted your silence as a refusal because she uttered out, “You don’t have to come if you don’t want to, Dandy. Nice as you are, I wasn’t the kindest so I get it.”

“No, no, I’ll come.” You threw her a quick smile. “I’d be happy to.”

“You havin’ fun, darlin’?”

Wade was beside you suddenly, a broad smile on his lips. 

You pointed to the stage. “I babysat some of the kids in the band when I was in high school. They’re not half bad.”

“Me and Grant have been watchin’ you dance over there.” His eyes burned into yours. “Everybody here’s real fond of you, Miss Dandy.”

Heat bled into your cheeks and the pit of your belly, a hoarse chuckle leaving your lips. “Nostalgia, s’all.”

“S’More than that,” he continued, “You’re like a piece of this place.”

You took a wet cloth to the sticky countertop, tilting your head to hide your smile. “My daddy helped Lou build this bar way back when.”

“Did he?”

You nodded. “I practically grew up here. After Daddy died, I got a job here waitin’ tables to help pay for school and the little amount of bills Mama would let me pay for. Bein’ here’s a home away from home, y’know?”

Wade grunted in response. “Losin’ a father can be hard on a little girl.”

“Losin’ a parent in general is super hard.” Your mother’s smile flashed behind your eyes. “But over time, the memory hurts less and you don’t feel like pieces of you are missin’.”

“You’re a very wise woman, Miss Dandy. Anybody ever tell you that?” 

You playfully rolled your eyes and cheered as the band ended their set. “So what can I do for you, Mr. Garrett?”

“I just wanted to make sure that you were havin’ a good night, sugar. ’S all.”

“You came all the way over here just to check up on me? You could’ve just asked Vickie or Grant to do that.” You put your hands on your hips. “What’s really goin’ on?”

Before Wade could get a word out, you heard your name being called from across the room. Jessica Powell, your best friend from school, ran up to the bar. You ran around Wade into her outstretched arms. “When my aunt told me you were back in town, I called her a bold-faced liar. I said, ‘I know that Miss Dandy wouldn’t come back to the Creek and not call me.’”

“Last I heard, you were in Chicago!” You pulled back to look at her. Her locs were shoulder length now and gone were the chubby cheeks of childhood. She wore an expensive black and gold Roberto Cavalli blazer-skirt combo (that you were sure costed more than you were making in a year) and simple pearl earrings with a deep burgundy lip. She looked like an off-duty model. “Are you back home?”

“I’m visitin’.” Her smile softened. “I heard about your mama. How you holdin’ up?”

You shrugged. “She’s not as bad as she could be but she’s not the same. It’s been an adjustment for sure.”

“Well, I’ll be here for a few days so I’ll come visit. I’ve missed Miss Gerri.” Jessica’s gaze flitted over your shoulder, widening ever so slightly, before meeting your eyes again. “Now, Dandy, just who is that fine specimen of man behind us?”

You looped your arms through hers and walked her away from Wade’s earshot. “He’s our new temporary boss. Kind of.”

“What happened to Lou? I know that old goat ain’t retire already!”

“Lou hired him. You notice how there ain’t been any fights breakin’ out or how different the Bull looks?” She looked around, nodding. “That’s all thanks to Mr. Garrett.”

Jessica hummed, her gaze behind you. “Enterprisin’ and gorgeous, too.”

A thrum of…something licked at your chest as you watched one of your oldest friends ogle Wade. “I s’pose. In that rugged cowboy kind of way, I guess.”

“You know what they say about savin’ horses,” she drawled. 

Jessica’s always been boy crazy. It was one of the things that you admired about her. How charming and effervescent she was, how magnetizing she could be. But now, it made your stomach twist in painful knots. Jessica was so glamorous and beautiful, more captivating than plain ol’ you. Anybody would fall over themselves just to get her to glance their way.

But you and Wade…weren’t anything. Outside of being something of your boss, you’ve only exchanged a few lingering glances and small jokes. You’ve only known the man for less than two weeks. Whatever this was — a crush? Infatuation? — couldn’t go anywhere even if you wanted it to. 

“Hey, Jess — ”

“Is he datin’ someone? Mr. Garrett?”

Your brows pinched. “You don’t think he’s a little too old for you?”

She threw her head back, laughing. “Girl, he’s probably younger than my daddy! It’s all cool.”

You chewed on your bottom lip. “I don’t think he’s seein’ anybody. I can ask.”

She squealed in delight and pressed a quick kiss to your cheek. “You’re an angel! I’ll call you tomorrow, okay?” You agreed and she threw you a wave over her shoulder before leaving the Bull. 

“Everythin’ okay, honey?”

You jumped, clutching at your chest. You whipped around to swat at Wade, his big grin making your heart stutter. “Jesus Christ, Mr. Garrett!”

“You’re a jumpy little thing, ain’t you?”

“Only when people sneak up on me.” Jessica’s inquiry played in your mind. “Can I ask a question?”

“Anythin’.”

“It might be inappropriate.”

His blue eyes lit up with amusement. “Now I really want to know.”

“My friend that just came in? She was wonderin’ if you were single.” Your cheeks burned at his surprised expression. “Forget I said anythin’ —”

“I am.”

You nodded, a tight smile on your lips. “I’ll let her know then.”

“Now, hold on —”

“I’ve got to get back to the bar,” you said hurriedly. You half-sprinted back to your post, Vicki’s brown eyes on wide as you appeared next to her. 

“What’s gotten into you?”

“You mind if I go on a fifteen? I need some air.”

She put a palm to your forehead. “You do feel kind of flushed. Want me to see if I can get one of the boys to cover while I take you home?”

Your stomach twisted. “No, I don’t want to worry Mama. I’ll be fine once I’m outside. I promise.”

Vicki eyed you suspiciously. “What happened? Did somebody upset you?”

You let out a something between a chuckle and a scoff. “I did it to myself.”

“Oh, baby…”

You shook your head, tears burning in your eyes. “Fifteen minutes, Vick. Please.”

She gave you a small smile and waved you off. You quickly moved through the crowd, deftly sidestepping the concerned glances you were getting from your coworkers. Once you hit the kitchen door, you all but ran to the back door, the cool air giving you gooseflesh. 

What was wrong with you?

You sat back on your heels, your hands on your face. You’d never known yourself to be a jealous person. You tended to be a ‘the glass is full’ kind of girl than the latter options. But something about the silver-haired bouncer wrought something feral in you. Something that had you clenching and unclenching your fists as if to make room for claws or talons. Wade wasn’t yours. He wasn’t even half yours. If Jessica wanted to date him, who were you to interfere?

“Hey, Dandy girl.”

You looked up, a frown tightening your brows. “You can’t be back here, Danny.”

“I know, I know,” he held his palms up, “I saw you head out here and wanted to make sure that you were okay.”

“‘M fine.” You stood to your feet. “You should head back inside — through the front. I won’t tell Lou you were back here.” 

Danny took a step forward. “What’s your hurry, Dandy? You ain’t miss me all the way out there in California?”

“I’m sure you ain’t thought about me since graduation, Danny.” 

“I think about you e’eryday, Dandy,” he slurred. 

“Are you drunk?”

He hiccuped, a giggly apology passing his lips. Then his brown eyes hardened. “You’ve been actin’ real uppity since you got back.” His hand shot out, curling tightly around your forearm and yanking you into him. “What you givin’ me a hard time for?”

“You’re hurtin’ me, Danny!” You tried shoving him back but that just made his grip tighten. You held up a palm, your tone soft. “How ‘bout we go inside and get you some food and water? Help you sober up?”

“I want you to see me.”

“I’m lookin’ at you — ”

“No,” he hissed, “You don’t see me, Dandy! You never have. You think I put in this much work for tail I can get anywhere?”

You didn’t register that you’d hit him until you saw his head whip to the side and felt the skin of your palm stinging. His grip loosened some and you started to make a break for the door. The collar of your shirt dug into your neck and you were falling backwards, a harsh gust of air leaving your lungs as your back hit the ground. Danny clapped one of his hands over your mouth. 

“Think it’s high time I get to taste what I’ve been chasin’.” He caged your hips between his knees as he fumbled with his belt buckle. You struggled, throwing punches to his stomach and groin, before he punched you in the cheek. “You’ll like it better if you don’t make so much trouble.”

Black spots dotted your vision and there was a high-pitched sound ringing in your ears. But your limbs didn’t stop fighting. You screamed, hoping that one of the kitchen crew would hear you over the music. Danny hit you again and everything started to blur at the edges. The taste of copper filled your mouth; blood from your nose and your mouth, no doubt. Your head lolled to the side, your spotty vision catching…something. What was that?

“…dy! Dandy, talk to me!”

Wade? When did he get out here?

“She’s back here!” You were being sat up, warm hands on your face. “Hey, hey, keep your eyes open for me, okay?”

“Head hurts,” you moaned. 

“I know, baby, but I need you to keep your eyes open for me.” 

You blinked slowly, your vision focusing just enough to see Wade’s relieved smile. You sighed dreamily. “You have pretty eyes.”

“So do you.” His thumb brushed along your cheekbone. 

Realization dawned on you and you clutched the front of his shirt. “Did he…?”

He shook his head. “Damn near close. Grant was escortin’ some knuckle-headed kids out when he heard you screamin’ bloody murder.” A glimpse of something dark passed through his eyes. “I could’ve killed him.”

“Please,” you let out a shaky breath, “don’t tell my mother. I don’t want her to worry.”

“‘Fraid Lou and Vicki beat me to that. ‘M s’posed to take you to the emergency room myself so they can meet us there.”

Well, shit. 

“Is it bad?” 

“Nothin’ a few days’ rest can’t fix.” Wade gave you a small smile. “Let’s get you to the hospital, yeah?”

You nodded and he gathered you in his arms, lifting you as if you weighed nothing. “I can walk, Mr. Garrett.”

“Humor me, honey.”

“Lou called the police and he’s pressin’ charges.”

You nodded absently, turning to face your mother. She was sitting in a folding chair across from you, covered in a thick sweater and knitted hat despite the June humidity. Her gaze was on you, worry all over her face. Her cheeks were starting to sink in, emphasizing her cheekbones even more. Her hands were thinner. Everything about her was smaller now. It made her sickness even more real. You were going to lose your mother. 

“Mama?”

“Yes, baby?” 

“I’m sorry.”

Her brows creased and she put a hand your cheek. “Why are you sorry?”

“I didn’t want them to call the ambulance. I knew you’d want to be here and —”

“If you thought that I’d just sit at home while you were hurtin’, you’re dead wrong, little girl.” She stopped your argument with the most lethal glare you’d ever seen in her dark brown eyes. “You’re my baby. Of course I’d want to be here with you.”

“But you’re sick,” you argued emphatically. “You shouldn’t be up at this hour fussin’ over me.”

“I’m not dead yet, Dandy.” You winced. “You don’t have to handle me with kid gloves. I know what’s happenin’ to me and it’s scary for me, too. But I won’t stop livin’ my life because it might be endin’ sooner than I planned.”

“I hate thinkin’ about it,” you revealed, a choked sob leaving you. “I don’t want you to die.”

“We’ve got more than enough time. It might not seem like it but we do.” She pursed her lips. “Are you okay?”

Were you? In less than thirty minutes, your world had shifted. Bad things didn’t happen in Creek Springs. Or maybe they did and you were never put in a position to notice. Danny Hyde wasn’t that charming, popular boy that harbored an unrequited crush on you anymore. He’s a grown man that assaulted you because he felt that you owed him reciprocity. 

“I’ll be fine,” you said softly, “I don’t want you fussin’ over me, Mama.”

“Seems like you need fussin’ over.”

You looked towards the curtain in front of you and saw Wade. You were glad that you weren’t hooked up to the EKG machine because your heartbeat was erratic. “Mr. Garrett.”

“This is Mr. Garrett?” 

He tipped his head to your mother. “Nice to meet you, ma’am.”

Your mother snorted. “Ma’am? Outside of the gray hair, I’m hardly older than you.”

“Mama!”

“’S okay, honey.” He looked to your mother. “I was raised to call everyone ma’am. My mother was a real stickler about manners and all that.”

“That’s a good trait in a man, manners.” Your mother gave him a watery smile. “Thank you.”

Wade’s brows kissed his hairline. “I didn’t — ”

“If you hadn’t found my baby, I might be here under different circumstances.”

“I’d do it again,” he vowed.

He sounded so resolute. You were doubly glad you weren’t hooked up to a machine. 

“You should come by for dinner, Mr. Garrett. A proper thank you for savin’ my daughter.”

“Mama!” you hissed. 

“I’d love to.” You gave Wade a deadly glare. “Miss Dandy’s told me about your pecan bars makin’ a believer out of me.”

Your mother looked to you with a brow raised. “Oh, really?”

“Oh, yeah,” he continued, “Said that you’ve turned many a pecan hater into a pecan lover with just one bite.”

“Then Miss Dandy and I will make you a fresh batch. Dinner’s on Sunday.”

Someone kill you now.

“Grant and Mo were plannin’ to string Danny up by his toes, they’re so mad.” 

Jessica had come by your house as soon as you woke up the next morning. She was kind enough not to mention how bad you looked but she, like most everyone at the Bull and in town, vowed to give Danny what for. “I’m glad his mama and daddy had enough sense to let Judge Harland throw the book at him.”

You hummed, your focus on the reflection in your vanity mirror. Your face was so purpled and bruised, you pushed down your guilt at Lou giving you the week off to recover. ‘You need to rest up, Dandy. Can’t have my best girl hurtin’. Somebody’s got to make me the big bucks.’

“Hey,” Jessica put a hand over your knee, pulling you from your thoughts, “don’t do that.”

“Do what?”

“Lookin’ at your reflection like you’re disgustin’. What happened to you wasn’t your fault.”

“But maybe I was bein’ cruel without knowin’, Jess. I never took him serious.” 

“You didn’t have to reciprocate anythin’ you didn’t feel. That would’ve been cruel. Danny Hyde holdin’ on to a crush from childhood doesn’t give him the right to hurt you.”

You knew that she was right. You were just so shaken up by what happened that you did what you would’ve told anyone else not to: blame yourself. 

“So I bumped into that Mr. Garrett of yours.” You snapped your gaze up to hers. “Don’t worry, he let me down gently.”

Your brows tightened. “What?”

She laid across your lap, a smirk on her lips. “Yeah, he told me that he’s got his eye on somebody and didn’t want me gettin’ the wrong idea.”

“Oh.” You deflated some. “I’m sorry, Jess.”

“What for? I’m not.”

“I thought you liked him.”

Jessica laughed, shaking her head.  “You still as romantic as ever, huh? Dandy, that man is smitten with you.” You started to shake your head and she lightly smacked your bare thigh. “Yes, he is! He all but told me so!”

“He can’t, Jessie.”

“Why not?” she asked, exasperated. “He’s single, you’re single. You’re both drop dead gorgeous. What’s stoppin’ you?”

“He’s technically my boss.” 

“Lou is your boss. Wade is a…trainer, kind of. He’s just there to make sure that the Bull can turn a profit. You’re free to do whatever you want.”

“He’s old enough to be my father.”

“But he ain’t.” She smiled mischievously. “Unless you want to call him daddy. That’s all up to you.”

You swatted at her. “Jessica Renée!”

She held her palm up, laughing in earnest now. “I’m just sayin’! ‘Sides, me and Mo are thinkin’ of goin’ to dinner tomorrow night.”

You raised a brow. “Since when do you like Mo?”

“I always have. But you know him: always with one girl or half-engaged to the next.” She shrugged. “I’ve got to strike while the iron’s hot.”

You shook your head, “You’re ridiculous. But I think he’s mellowed out since high school. At least to my eyes.”

“Even if he hasn’t, what’s one night? Ain’t gon’ hurt nobody.” 

You waved her off. 

She sat up, her eyes surveying your room. “Feels so weird bein’ back here.”

Posters of Janet Jackson and New Edition hung from your baby pink walls. Your desk — white with roses and butterflies carved into it courtesy of your father — sat up against the far wall, perpendicular to your vanity. Scholastic ribbons and trophies adorned its shelves. Polaroids of you, Jessica, and your small group of girlfriends were tucked between the mirror and wood framing. Even your bed was the same: same soft pink comforter over the same white duvet with various pink and white pillows. Everything felt like sitting in a time capsule. 

“Right? I don’t think Mama took anythin’ out of here. It’s the same as I left it.” You deflated some. “What if she can’t beat this, Jessie? I can’t lose her, too.”

Jessica gathered you into her arms. “Your mama’s one of the strongest women I know. She ain’t goin’ down without a fight.”

“I don’t know what I’m going to do once she’s gone. I keep tryin’ to picture it but I…” You let out a shuddery breath. “I still need her.”

“We’ll figure that out once we cross that bridge. For now,” Jessica wrapped an arm around your shoulders, “we’ll enjoy the time we have left with her. Miss Gerri deserves one hell of an encore.”

You were finishing tying your server’s apron around your waist when Wade’s gruff voice echoed around the little locker room. 

“What should I bring to dinner?”

 An embarrassed noise leaving your lips. “I appreciate you appeasin’ my mother but you don’t have to come.”

Wade’s dark brows pulled down. “Of course I’m comin’.”

“Mr. Garrett —”

“If I hadn’t made it out there, Danny would’ve done more than just knock you around.”

“You think I don’t know that?” You slammed your locker door shut. “I’m thankful to you, Mr. Garrett, truly. But I don’t think you should be comin’ to my house for Sunday dinner or offerin’ to take me home or —”

“Savin’ you from entitled little pricks?” he said brusquely. 

“I’m sayin’ that I’m not your responsibility, Mr. Garrett.”

“Wade,” he crossed the room, towering over you, “You need to call me Wade.”

Your brows canted. “Why?”

“‘Cause you don’t know what callin’ me Mr. Garrett does to me.”

Your tongue stuck itself to the roof of your mouth.  

He lifted a tentative hand, his knuckles barely brushing the underside of your jaw. His gaze held yours as he started to speak. “I —”

“Dandy, you in here?”

You both jolted at the sound of Vicki’s voice. “Yeah! I’ll be right out!”

“No rush, honey. I just wanted to make sure you were here since you’re bein’ stubborn and all.”

“‘M not bein’ stubborn,” you argued, rolling your eyes. 

She cackled. “Whatever you say, Dandy girl.” 

When you were sure that she’d gone to the front of the bar, you looked back up at Wade. “We should get out there.” You put a hand to his chest and turned on your heel towards the door. 

“Let me take you home tonight,” he rushed out. 

You looked at him over your shoulder, a smile on your lips. “I’ll ask Lou to keep my car here.”

You could barely focus the rest of the night. 

Every time you dared a glance, Wade’s heated gaze found you. The tension was simmering, tightening your belly. Your skin was warm and dewy, a light sheen of sweat on the back of your neck. 

“He’s lookin’ at you like he wants to eat you alive,” Vicki half-whispered. 

You keep your eyes down, serving two regulars their drinks. “No, he’s not, Vick.” 

“Dandy, I’ve been around the block a time or two. I know when a man is interested and Wade Garrett is interested.”

“I don’t have time for that right now.” 

“And just why not?”

“I have to take care of Mama. And ’sides that, Wade travels more than he sees his home wherever that may be. I can’t wait around for him, worryin’ myself sick.” You glanced over your shoulder, his gaze still on you. “I don’t even know if he’d want to stay with me if I asked. There’s just too much to consider, Vick.”

“Hey, look at me.” She put a hand on your shoulder. “Dandy, look at me.”

You turned to her.

“You’re young — don’t give me that look! You are young and beautiful and deserve somethin’ for yourself. Your mama and daddy lived their lives. Got twenty years and a brilliant lil’ girl out of it.” She gripped your chin between her thumb and forefinger, smiling. “Don’t let the fact that Danny Hyde hurt you or Wade bein’ older or whatever it is you keep worryin’ about keep you from livin’. Just let yourself be happy.”

“But I’m not unhappy, Vick. Just…afraid.” You leaned back against the bar, your arms crossed. “These past few months have been terrifyin’ for me and I’m not sure where to go once everythin’s all said and done. What’s the point of startin’ somethin’ I can’t finish?”

“Who says you won’t finish it?”

You had just closed your locker door when Wade appeared in the doorway. 

“You ready?”

“Just about.” You slid your purse strap up your shoulder and made your ways towards him. “I still have to get my tips from Vicki.”

He held up a folded envelope. “Already ahead of you, sweetheart.”

Your heart stuttered at the endearment. You thanked him, your palm held out to him. He started to ease the money into your palm but jerked his hand back before your fingers could curl around the paper.

“I want to make somethin’ clear between us.”

Your brows creased. “Okay...?”

“Regardless of how things seem, I’m not your boss. Far from it.” A light flush of pink ran along his cheeks. “So, as far as us…” He paused and blew out a shallow breath. “I like you, Dandy.”

Your belly tightened. “You do?”

“Thought I was bein’ obvious,” he chuckled. 

“I’ve never been the best at noticin’ when people find that kind of interest in me,” you confessed. “Outside of Danny, I wouldn’t ever find out about someone likin’ me until time had passed.”

He laughed, running his hands through his hair. “‘M not surprised by that.”

“So what do we do?”

He raised a brow. 

“I mean,” you motioned between the two of you with your hands, “you like me, I like you. What do we do next?”

“You ain’t never had a boyfriend before, honey?”

Your cheeks warmed, a pout on your lips. “Of course I have! I just mean that you’re leavin’ soon, right? I’m probably goin’ to be back here to take care of my mother.”

His features softened. “We don’t have to talk about that right now.”

“I have to,” your voice broke, “I don’t like not knowin’. If this is just goin’ to be a fling, a moment, that’s fine. But if you don’t let me know where I stand, I’m goin’ to fall in love with you, Wade. I’m goin’ to fall hard and fast and I’d rather land on my feet than headfirst.”

“Dandy…”

“Y’all okay back here?” Lou came into view over Wade’s shoulder, his brows raised in worry. “I was just ‘bout to lock up when I saw the light still on back here.”

“We were just leavin’,” you answered smoothly. “I forgot my purse.” 

“I swear we need to stitch that thing onto your arm, Dandy,” he joked, looking to Wade. “Brightest child I ever met but forgetful as all hell sometimes.”

Wade didn’t look at Lou as he spoke. “I don’t doubt it.” 

You held his gaze, looking for…something. An answer to your concerns, the inevitable goodbye. Anything. But all you saw was the sincerity that you’d come to admire about him.

“I’ll take my tips and meet you outside.” You didn’t wait for an answer as you took the envelope from his grip, walked around him, and gave Lou a kiss on the cheek. “I’ll see you Monday.”

As soon as Wade’s bike met the concrete of your driveway, you all but leapt from the back of it, throwing a soft goodbye over your shoulder. 

“Dandy.”

You stopped. 

“I” — he let out a sigh — “I’ll see you Sunday.”

You nodded, half-glancing at him over your shoulder. “Thank you for the ride, Mr. Garrett. Supper’s at four.” You didn’t wait for his reply (again) and hurried into your house. 

“You’re home early.”

Your mother was sitting on the couch by the fireplace, the reading lamp a dim glow against her face. She doggy-eared the page in her book and fixed you with a smile. “How was work?”

You shrugged and moved to the couch. You wrapped your arms around her middle and rested your head on her shoulder like you used to when you were younger. Her lavender and cotton lotion calmed your nerves. 

She put a hand to your forehead. “You feelin’ okay, baby?”

You shook your head. “I don’t know what to do.”

“You want to talk about it?”

You looked up at her, tears wetting your lashes. “I can’t lose you. I’m tryin’ to respect your decision but I don’t want you to die, Mama, I don’t.”

“I know, baby.” She took hold of one of your hands. “I spoke to Doc today.”

“You did?” 

She nodded. “I’ve been thinkin’ a lot about what I told you before you came back. I was…bitter in some ways, angry in others.” Her voice trembled as she spoke. “First, I lost the love of my life. Now this.” She shook her head. “If this is in God’s plan, I can’t accept it.”

“What are you sayin’, Mama?”

“Doc said that since I’ve only stopped treatment for a week or so, I still have options.” A small smile curved into the corners of her mouth. “Says there’s a trial in California that I’m a candidate for.”

You sat up. “Does he think you’ll respond well to treatment?”

“He thinks my chances are really good, baby.” She gathered you into her arms, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead.

A tremulous laugh bubbled past your lips. 

“You gon’ have to give me a tour of LA. If you’re okay with me bein’ there.”

You nodded, her thumb catching the tears on your cheek. “I will.”

“Half the girls in our class would lose their shit if they were here right now.”  

With it being too humid to go to brunch, she’d suggested you and Louise hang out with her at her and Isaiah’s apartment thirty minutes out of town. Their living room walls were a sage green with high ceilings and a big window that let in the summer afternoon light beautifully. You all were spread out in across the floor: you, leaned up against the green velvet couch with Cora on your left side and Louise in front of you, laid out on the carpet, her limbs brushing up against your leg or your foot every so often.

Cora passed the joint to you. “Full disclosure, the only girls I liked in our class were you, Jessica, Melissa Bancroft, and that one girl.” She snapped her fingers. “Shit, what was her name?”

Your lips wrapped around the end of the joint, taking a slow hit. “Describe her.”

“Short, long, long hair that I’m still jealous about. Sat behind Mary-Anne Bishop in home room? Fuck! What was that girl’s name?”

You snapped your fingers. “Deirdre Porter!”

“Yes! Dee Dee!”

“Most of the girls in our class were bitches, anyway,” Louise said, wrinkling her nose. “And the boys weren’t any better.” Danny flashed in your mind. “I still can’t believe you smoke, Dandy,” she continued. 

“My mama was a teacher. There was only so much mischief she’d allow ‘fore havin’ my hide,” you said, shrugging. “‘Sides I didn’t really start smokin’ until I left for LA.”

“My, my, our lil’ Dandy’s sneakier than we thought,” Cora snickered. 

You beamed at her. 

Louise lightly tapped your calf. “So, Dandy, word around town is you and that Mr. Garrett are givin’ each other the run around.”

You wrinkled your nose. “Don’t say it like that.”

“How the hell do you want me to say it? ‘Hey, Dandy, everybody’s sayin’ that you and that bouncer are goin’ to fuck by the end of the week.’ Is that better?”

Cora guffawed, swatting at her best friend. “Cut the girl some slack, Lulu!” Her eyes found you. “The man is fine, Dandy. What’s holdin’ you back?”

The question sobered you up a little. “I am. He’s leavin’ soon and I don’t want to get my hopes up just to never see him again.”

“He was the one that found you after —” Louise covered her mouth with her hands. “Shit! I’m sorry, Dandy.”

You shook your head, a small smile on your lips. “It’s fine. You can say it.”

“I still can’t believe Danny.” Cora’s voice was steely, lethal. “I oughta tell Isaiah to kick him in the fuckin’ nuts.”

You waved her off. “It’s over now. That’s all that matters.”

“Even after all of that, you still think he doesn’t like you?”

You took a deep breath and explained you and Wade’s conversation from Friday night. They both listened in rapt interest, exchanging looks every so often. “I don’t know, I think I’m overthinkin’ everythin’.”

“Overthinkin’ Wade likin’ you or overthinkin’ tellin’ him at all?” Louise asked.

“Both?”

Cora spoke, “You said earlier that your mama’s goin’ back to LA with you for treatment, right?” You nodded. “Then I’m not seein’ the problem with you just havin’ a night with him before you both leave.”

“I really like him, Cora.” You sighed. “It’s not like he’s my first boyfriend or anythin’, but he’s not like the guys I dated in LA. He doesn’t just want to sleep with me and he never makes me feel uncomfortable or like I’m askin’ for too much. But he’s spent the majority of his life travelin’ all over the country.”

“So?”

“So I’m not askin’ him to drop all of that to be with me.” You sat up on your elbows. “I don’t want him to resent me, if what we have is even longterm.”

“You always been a worrier like this, Dandy?” Louise shook her head, chuckling. “I don’t usually find myself givin’ advice to straight people — ”

“You give me advice all the time, liar,” Cora cut in. 

Louise threw her a glare. “And it agonizes me every time you do it.” She looked back to you. “Do you like him?”

“Yeah.”

“He like you back?” You nodded. “So stop thinkin’ about it so damn much. If it works out, y’all will figure it out. If it’s just a fling, you got to experience Wade and let him go. Not everything has to be so final. Life ain’t all Disney movies and roses. Relationships take work and consistency.”

You smirked. “Well, I’ll be damned.”

“Don’t make a big deal out of it, Dandy,” Louise waved you off, “If we’re goin’ to be friends, we need to be honest with each other, no?”

“We do.”

“Don’t let her fool you, Dandy, Lulu’s a big ol’ softie,” Cora teased. 

You playfully bumped shoulders with Louise. “I’m findin’ that.”

“I’m callin’ my girlfriend to pick me up if y’all don’t stop bullyin’ me,” she glowered. 

You leaned back up against the couch and let out a groan. “I don’t want him to come to dinner tomorrow.”

“He’s havin’ dinner with you and you’re just now sayin’ somethin’!” Cora screeched. 

“Me and my mama,” you corrected. “She invited him.”

“Y’all gon’ do the nasty in your old bedroom,” Louise teased. “You ain’t slick, Dandy.” 

You threw up your middle finger. “Ain’t nobody gettin’ no cuddy in my mama’s house.”

“Mm-hmm.”  

“I’m serious! At most, I’ll be polite. Cordial.”

Cora held her palm out to Louise. “You might as well pay up now, babe. She’s definitely fuckin’ that man in her mama’s house.”

When you were little, Sunday service was one of your favorite things. You weren’t particularly religious, but you loved the communal aspect of worship. Strangers, neighbors, and families all joined together in prayer. Your heart would flutter like a mockingbird’s, your hands would get clammy. And for a moment, while the organist and drummer played a beautiful accompaniment, you thought you could hear God answering. 

“Family, today is a blessed day.” Deacon Henderson outstretched his hands, a broad smile on his lips behind the pulpit. His brown eyes found you and your mother in the pews. “Sister Geraldine is bein’ admitted to a medical trial in California.”

Your mother nodded and smiled as the congregation applauded and gave their gratitude. She tightened her hold on your hand. You knew what she was trying to say to you and you returned the squeeze. 

“And we know that she’ll be in good hands out west,” he continued, winking at you. “Let us give Sister Gerri and Miss Dandy our prayers and thanks before we leave.” He closed his eyes and bowed his head. “Father God, we come to You to ask that You watch over our sisters as they embark on this new journey You’ve laid out for them. Lord, we pray that Sister Gerri makes a speedy and healthy recovery. May she know that she is blessed and loved and in our prayers. We thank you, Father God, in Jesus’ name, amen.”

“Dandy, if you don’t stop workin’ over me, I’m banishin’ you to the living room until it’s time for supper,” your mother admonished. 

You moved away from the kitchen counter, your palms facing your mother. “I’m sorry, Mama. I’m just nervous.”

Her brows flattened. “Clearly.”  

“My boss is comin’ to dinner, Mama. That’s cause for a little anxiety!”

“That man is not your boss,” she put her hands on her hips, “Bosses don’t look at you the way he looks at you. Same goes for you.”

Your eyes rounded and then your shoulders sank. “Is it that obvious?”

“Baby, a rooster crowin’ durin’ church is less obvious than you two eyein’ each other in that hospital room.” She lightly bumped her hip with yours. “Why didn’t you tell me that you were sweet on somebody?”

“I’m not” — you let out an embarrassed groan — “it just happened, all right? I didn’t come back expectin’ a relationship. I didn’t even think he thought of me like that until Friday night!”

“Now that you do, what are you goin’ to do about it?”

“Nothin’.”

A hard scoff left your mother’s lips. “And why not?”

“We’ve still got to pack up, I have to talk to Lou about watchin’ the house while we’re gone, and I have to call my old boss and tell her that I’m comin’ back — ”

“All I’m hearin’ is excuses, Dandy. Give me a real reason why you can’t.”

You opened your mouth to speak, three sharp raps coming upon the front door cutting you off. Your eyes snapped back to your mother’s shit-eating grin.

“Well, go on! Open the door for the man.”

You started to protest but she shooed you out with a wave of her dish towel. “Fine! I’m goin’!” You tried — and failed — to temper your rapid heartbeat but by the time you were at the front door, it had broken into an Olympic gold-winning sprint. 

You wiped your palms against the fabric of your skirt and reached for the doorknob. Time seemed to slow as you opened the door, your eyes drinking in the sight of the man before you. 

His hair was pulled back into a half up, half down style, wavy pieces framing his face. He opted for a light grey pressed button down tucked neatly into the waistband of his Levi’s. A large bouquet of daisies and white tulips sat between you.

You tipped your chin. “Those s’posed to be for somebody or you just bein’ polite?”

Wade let out a nervous chuckle. “I got them for your mother. Help her warm up to me a little.”

You stifled a smile. “She’s fine with you, Mr. Garrett. In fact, you might be one of her new favorite people.” You held the door open wider and motioned for him to enter. “Let me go find a vase to put those in.”

Your fingertips brushed up against his knuckles as you grabbed the bouquet. You let out a small gasp and quickly turned away from him. Warmth gathered at your wrist. You glanced at him over your shoulder, a brow raised. 

“Wade. Call me Wade.” His voice was soft. 

You opened your mouth to argue but decided against it, nodding. “Wade.”

“Well, I’ll be damned.”

You chuckled, setting your chin against the heel of your palm. A smug smile tugged at your mouth. “I told you.”

Your mother chuckled. “I’ll send you off with more of those bars if you’d like, Wade.”

“Please.” The word came out almost orgasmic. You had to force your eyes away from his tongue darting out to lick the sticky toffee topping from his thumb. “So,” he rested his arms on the dining table and leaned forward, a conspiratorial smile on his lips, “what has Miss Dandy told you about me?”

“Almost nothin’,” your mother answered. “I wait up every night for the girl and she ain’t said nary a word about you!”

“Mama…” you groaned, hiding your face in palms. “Please.”

“What! It’s not like anybody else in town’s givin’ me any word on our new guest!”

Wade’s head whipped back and he let out a warm bark of a laugh. “I can guarantee you that I’m not as interestin’ as the locals make me out to be.” His eyes flitted to yours. “But your daughter’s somethin’ of a local celebrity, ain’t she?”

“Somethin’ like that,” she said, smiling. “My girl’s everybody’s favorite ‘round here. She grew up in the Bull, y’know?”

“Her and Lou mentioned that. Your husband helped build it?”

“Terry and Louis are cousins, their fathers were brothers. When Lou’s father passed, he was left a nice sum of money and he wanted to open a bar.” She looked to you, absently surveying your features. “I was about six, seven months pregnant with you when the Bull first opened. Lou and your daddy were so excited, they couldn’t keep still all day. The first night, only ten people showed up.” She let out a chuckle. “Lou was so upset. But then, Terry — like he always did — managed to get more people to come check the bar out. By the end of the year, the Bull became what it is today.”

“He sounds like a fine man.”

Your mother nodded. “He was. I’ve always said that Dandy got the best parts of him.” She smiled. “Did she tell you about our move?”

“She did.” His expression was neutral. 

She hummed. “Where do you come from, Wade?”

“I was born in Texas, Galveston. Don’t have much in the way of family anymore so a job like mine is ideal.” He shrugged. “Like I said, not as interestin’ as I’m made out to be.”

“Have you ever been to California?”

Your eyes rounded. “Mama!”

She held up her palms. “I’m just askin’ a question!”

“I have,” Wade offered, “Well, I’ve driven through California. Never really had a reason to visit.”

“Maybe you could give us a visit once we’re settled in.” I swear this woman will be the death of me. “Wouldn’t that be nice, Dandy?”

“I’m sure Wade has other matters to attend to than to visit us,” you said evenly. 

The front door opened and shut, you and Wade turning towards the noise.

“Gerri? You in here?”

Your brows creased. “Vicki?” You turned to look to your mother, an accusing brow raised. “Mama, what did you do?”

“We’re in here, Vick!” She gave you a light shrug. “I don’t know what you’re talkin’ about.”

Vicki appeared in the doorway of the dining room, her expression confused. “Hey, Dandy! Wade.” Her eyes went to your mother. “Are…you ready?”

“Ready?” you repeated.

“Your mama called me last night and asked if I could come pick her up for one of our movie nights.” A slow smile crept onto her face. “Unless I’m interruptin’ somethin’ here?”

“Not at all,” Wade answered, looking to you. “Dandy and I can clean up here while you and Vick spend some time together.”

Your heart stuttered. “What —?”

“You’re such a sweetheart, Wade,” your mother enthused. She stood up from the table and made her way to you. She wrapped her arms around your shoulders and pressed a soft kiss to your cheek. “Tell him how you feel.”

Your body warmed. “Ma —”

“C’mon, Vick. Let’s leave before they change their minds.” Your mother looped her arm with Vicki’s and half-dragged her towards the front door. 

Once the door closed behind them, the air shifted. You were alone. With Wade. In your childhood home. You stood up from the table, gathering the dishes. Wade started to move but you fixed him still with a look. “I can handle cleanin’ up myself, Wade. Thank you for comin’.”

He grabbed your forearm. “Now, hold on, Dandy.”

“What?” Your voice was rough. Hard. “What do you want from me, Wade? I told you that you didn’t have to come here and you did. I told you on Friday that I was falling in love with you and you brushed me off. Now that I’m leavin’, what?”

“I didn’t brush you —”

You shook your head, taking the dishes into the kitchen. Your hands under the spray of hot water, you tried to steady your breath. What did it matter if he was here now? Lou told you that this weekend was the last weekend Wade would work and then he’d be gone. He didn’t owe you anything. Your eyes blurred with tears.

“Dandy.” 

“Go away.”

His heavy footfalls crossed the room in no time and you felt the heat of him against your back. His arms were on either side of you, caging you in against the sink. “I’m tired of you runnin’ away from me, woman.”

“I’m tired of you keepin’ me in the dark.”

“Maybe if you’d let me get a word in, I’ll give you an answer,” he argued.

You kissed your teeth, turning the faucet off, and carefully turning to face him. Your brows were canted and the set of your jaw was tight. “Floor’s yours.”

His lips twitched, his blue eyes surveying your face. “I’m leavin’ tomorrow mornin’.”

“I know that.”

“And I wanted to spend my last day in Creek Springs with you.” You pursed your lips. “I’ve been thinkin’ a lot about what you said Friday night. About us.”

A wave of embarrassment swam in your chest. 

“It’s taken the strength of God to keep me from touchin’ you. Your face,” His knuckles — ever so lightly — brushed across the apples of your cheeks, “your lips,” the rough pad of his thumb ran along your lips, “Just to remind myself that you’re real.”

You gripped one of his wrists. “But what do you feel for me, Wade?”

“Everything,” he rasped. “I want to wake up with you and I want to sleep with you in my arms. I want to make you breakfast and cook you dinner. I want to kiss you just because.”

“So kiss me,” you breathed. 

Wade’s hands went to cup your face and his mouth slanted over yours. You fisted the front of his shirt, a muffled whimper echoing in your ears. The kiss was searing and all-consuming. Wade took over you, one of his hands moving from your face to curl around your hip and push you into his front. The front of his slacks were tented and a delicious shudder rippled through you at the warmth gathered up against your pelvis. 

He rasped your name. “I need you to tell me to stop.”

You blinked up at him, dazed. “What?”

“If you don’t tell me to stop, I’m goin’ to take you right now, up against the sink.”

The words finally registered in your mind. “We can’t do…that here.”

“That?” he repeated playfully.

“‘M not fuckin’ you in my mother’s kitchen,” you answered flatly. His laugh rumbled through his chest, vibrating through your body. “If you’re not opposed to pink interior and music posters —”

You were cut off by Wade hoisting you over his shoulder, half-walking, half-running towards the staircase. The setting sun spilled from out of your open door at the end of the hall. He set you down on your bed and leaned up against your wall, drinking you in. Sunset bled across his skin and he’d never been more beautiful. 

The tension hung between you, taunting you with the possibilities. You could be bold and entice him, urge that glimpse of dominance he displayed in the kitchen until he was just as debauched as you felt. After what seemed like an eternity, you let out a frustrated sigh.

“One of us has to do somethin’.”

Wade raised a brow, a bemused grin on his lips. “Yeah?”

You nodded, licking your lips. Your fingers went to the buttons of your dress. “Have I ever told you that I’m obsessed with your hands?”

Wade shifted his weight from one foot to the other. “No.” His voice was rough. 

Your dress is halfway unbuttoned, the skin of your shoulders and chest peeking out from beneath the fabric. “I had to remind myself when you were eatin’ those pecan bars that I was sittin’ beside my mama. Otherwise, I’d have licked your fingers clean myself.” You pushed down the sleeves of your dress, your eyes on him. “Been hard to remember I don’t live alone thinkin’ ‘bout those hands of yours.”

Wade pushed himself up from the wall and closed the distance between you. His big hands gripped the meat of your thighs, a low groan tumbling from his mouth. His blue eyes locked with yours and you could’ve sworn you soaked through your panties in that moment. 

“‘M not one of them little boys you’re used to, darlin’.” One of his hands trailed up to the apex of your thighs, his fingertips brushing up against front of your panties. “‘Cause once I get a taste of you, you’re goin’ to feel me for days.”

A ragged moan fell from your lips.

His hands languidly traversed their way up the expanse of your torso to cup your breasts, the calloused pads of his thumbs lightly brushing up against your nipples. His hands molded themselves to the curves of your breasts, pawing and massaging them, transfixed. “So soft,” he murmured.

“Wade,” you whined. 

He chuckled. “You can touch me, too, sugar.” He grabbed one of your hands and placed it against his broad chest. “Don’t be shy.”

Your fingers made quick work of the buttons of his shirt, luxuriating in the feel of him: the coarseness of his chest hair. Raised, scarred skin. Your hands curled around his shoulders and he let out a choked sound; something between and a groan and a huff. “Am I hurtin’ you?”

“Not in the way you think,” he quipped. 

You smirked. “There’s more to me than just my chest, y’know.” 

“Don’t rush me, girl. I’ve been waitin’ to touch you like this for weeks.” One of his hands trailed up the column of your throat and cupped your cheek. “You’re beautiful, you know that? A fuckin’ dream.”

You let out a weak jibe. “Bet you say that to all the girls.”

“You should know me well enough by now, sugar, to know that I don’t say shit I don’t mean.” His lips met yours again, hungry and desperate. You all but ripped open his dress shirt, hastily pushing the garment off of his shoulders. He chuckled as you broke the kiss to work on undoing his belt. “My, my, Miss Dandy, you’re a deviant.”

His belt hit the floor and you looked up at him, a triumphant smirk cutting across your face. “Oh, you have no idea, Mr. Garrett.” Your hand slipped past the waistband of his underwear, his coarse, curly pubic hair tickling your fingerprints. Wade let out a breathy hiss. 

“Don’t tease me, honey.”

“Ain’t that all you been doin’ to me, Wade?” You leaned forward, your lips ghosting against his ear. “Teasin’ and baitin’ me without any care in the world.” The heft of him against your palm sent a pool of warmth to your core. Your hand worked up and down his shaft, your eyes drinking in the sight of him: the slight sheen of sweat across his face, the debauched expression. You smiled. “Talk to me, baby.”

He let out a breathy chuckle. “Baby, huh?”

You eased down onto your knees, shimmying his dress slacks down his hips until they were around his ankles. Dark hair streaked with grey covered his mound, his thighs taut and strong. His cock was flushed pink, half-hard and all girth. You leaned forward and took him into your mouth. You held him in your mouth for half a minute, relaxing your jaw, and slowly taking him further into your mouth. 

“Dandy,” Wade rasped. 

You moaned around his cock, mentally smiling at the twitch it wrought. His large hands gripped the sides of your face and he thrusted his hips forward. Your eyes watered and you were starting to gag, spit trailing down the sides of your mouth. You curved your hands around the backs of his thighs, anchoring yourself to him as he fucked your mouth with a possessed fervor. 

Wade made a choked sound. “You just lettin’ me use you like this? Lettin’ me use your mouth in your old bedroom?”

You moaned around him. 

“What a dirty girl you are, sugar.” You felt his balls tighten against your chin. His movements were getting sloppy, frantic. Your name came out on a grunt as he spilled into your mouth. His breaths were heavy and the setting sun highlighted the thin film of sweat covering his chest and torso. “At the risk of bein’ crass, I don’t think I’ve ever came that fast a day in my life.”

You sat back on your heels, the pad of your thumb sweeping along the seam of your lower lip. “I tend to have that effect.” You licked up the last of his spent, your eyes never leaving him. You hadn’t felt this electric — this alive —  in years. 

Wade eased you onto your feet and into his arms. He laid you across the bed, eyeing you like a priest to the highest deity. He raised his wrist that held his black hair tie to his lips. His teeth stretched the elastic as he moved it up and around his hand. His heated blue gaze on you made the simple act of pulling his hair out of his face the most erotic thing you’d ever witness. 

“You’re so beautiful, you know that?”

“So are you.”

He hovered over you, taking your mouth against his. There were still hints of toffee on his tongue from dessert. You cupped the back of his neck and tightened your legs around his hips, pulling his weight further onto you. One of his hands curved around the plush of your thigh and pushed it up towards your chest, widening the space. His other hand slid the gusset of your panties to the side. His thick fingers played at your slick entrance, gathering your essence, before rubbing at your sensitive pearl. 

“All this just for me, darlin’?”

You fisted the sheets, a sharp hiss leaving your lips. Wet warmth laved at your slick pussy and your hands flew to grip at his silver locks. “Shit!”

He chuckled against your labial lips. “You really have the filthiest mouth, y’know that?”

“It feels — fuck — it feels good. Sue me.” 

His tongue swirled around your clit, teeth lightly gliding against the sensitive skin. You rolled your hips into him. Sloppy, wet sounds and your keens echoed throughout the room. When two of his thick fingers pushed inside of you, your breath caught in your throat. 

“You gotta breathe, sweetheart.” He pressed a kiss above your mound. “It feels better when you’re breathin’.”

Your lungs released a clumsy breath. Wade devoured your pussy with the practice of a man devoted. Tears pricked at the corners of your eyes, familiar pressure building in your belly. You let out a hoarse cry. “Wade, ‘m close!”

“I know, honey.” His voice was rough. “I’ve got you. Let go.”

You came with a broken sob. Back bowed, fingers clenching onto Wade’s tresses, and tears streaming down your face. He didn’t release you from his hold, one hand still gripping your thigh while he worked three fingers in and out of you. 

Your lungs burned as you dragged in heavy breaths. “Wade, I — baby, stop.” You pushed at his head and tried to wriggle up the bed. 

He let out an affronted groan that reverberated against your pussy. “Just gimme one more. I need you to give me one more.”

“I can’t…”

“‘Course you can, sweetheart.” The squelch of your soaked cunt punctuated his words. “Just one more and we can rest, yeah?” His hand sped up, fucking into you at a brutal pace. Your orgasm slammed into you before you could catch up to it, a soundless cry slackening your jaw. “Good girl. You did so well,” he cooed. 

You went limp against the mattress. Your legs were still twitching and your heartbeat pulsed in your ears. Through the fog, you could hear the bathroom faucet running. You winced when you felt a damp warmth against your sensitive sex. 

“How many girls have you practiced those tricks on?”

“My fair share.” He threw the washcloth in the hamper and climbed back into your bed. His arms gathered you against his chest and a soft kiss was pressed to your hairline. “How many guys have you dazzled with your…oral talents?”

You snorted. “Fewer than you, I know that much.” 

“I’m honored to be among the favored few.” 

Now that the afterglow had long left, you looked at Wade. His hair was tousled and half coming out of its hold. His blue eyes were bright as they regarded you. You reached up and ran the pads of your fingers along his kiss-bruised lips. “You really are beautiful, you know that?”

“You got me beat by a country mile, honey.”

“You still haven’t answered my question.” Your fingers moved to dance up and down his sternum, circling and curling a patch of hair. 

“What’s that, darlin’?”

“What are we gon’ do about us? Is this just a one time thing? Are we doin’ long distance?” 

“It’s, what, July?” You nodded. “I haven’t been to California in a while. There’s plenty of bars there to keep me busy.”

You sat up, your eyes rounded. “Don’t play with me, Wade Garrett. You’d try to make this work?”

“Try? Honey, you’re stuck with me. I meant it when I said that you’ll be someone I’m hard pressed to forget.” His hand cupped your cheek. “Plus, I’m not in the business of sleepin’ with beautiful women and leavin’ them behind.”

“So you claim,” you drawled. 

“Hand to God. ‘M gettin’ old, Dandy girl.”

“Hardly.”

“I’m sayin’ that a man knows when to get off the saddle and mark his time slowly.” He brushed back a few of your curls from your face. “I want to slow down with you, Dandy. For however long you’ll have me.”

“I don’t know, cowboy.” A corner of your mouth quirked up. “I’m not as interestin’ as those city girls you’re used to.”

“You’re not like any girl I’m used to, honey.” He cupped your jaw. “What do you say?”

“Ask me properly.”

Wade barked out a laugh. “You goin’ to always be this stubborn?”

“Better get used to it.” 

He pressed a soft kiss to your lips. “C’mon, let’s get dressed. We’ve got a lot of work to do in the mornin’.” 

Your brows pulled down. “We?”

“Somebody’s got to help you and your mama start packin’ up, don’t they? I’d rather it be me than one of them knuckle headed cooks.”

Your lips stretched into a mischievous smirk. “Are you jealous, Mr. Garrett?”

“Damn straight I am,” he said gruffly. “I don’t need any of them delinquents sniffin’ up after my woman.”

You scoffed. “I swear, you men always think that somebody’s lookin’ at their women, plottin’ like villains.” You jabbed a finger into his chest. “Even if they were lookin’ at me some type of way, you think I’m so easily taken?”

“Not at all,” he smiled, “I just like people knowin’ what’s mine.”

His. You liked the sound of that. 

You kissed his cheek. “I can tell ‘em myself, thank you very much.”

𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 — wade garrett, i am free on thursdays and saturdays