Roping the Cowboy (Circle B Ranch .5)

I laugh at the way she groans. Since I close early on Saturdays, I won’t be so dead tired, so I actually consider going. “And be the third wheel?” I pop a brow. “I don’t think so.”

“No way! I’ll help you find a hot cowboy. Please? Please, please, please?” She bats her eyelashes and pouts out her lower lip.

“Ugh, fine.” I smile. “But no tequila this time.”

The next morning rolls around quickly, and I’m glad it’s finally Friday. This week has been long, and I’m ready to sleep in an extra hour tomorrow. I do my normal delivery to the B&B and somehow miss Braxton again, though I’m sure it’s not by accident. He’s more than likely avoiding me. Coward.

I make it back to the bakery just in time to flip the closed sign to open for my morning regulars who anxiously wait for their muffins and coffee. The elderly ladies in this town love their routines, and ever since I’ve opened, my bakery has become one of their stops.

“Mornin’, Charlotte,” I greet as soon as she steps to the counter. “I have a poppy seed muffin with your name on it!” I smile wide. She’s in her eighties and in great shape.

“Don’t forget my raspberry truffle,” she reminds me like she does every time.

“I’d never! You’re my favorite customer.” I bag her items and hand them to her.

“I think you say that to everyone.” She snickers. “But I appreciate it nonetheless.”

“Tell Mr. Davis I snuck a donut in there for him, too.” I flash her a wink, and she shakes her finger at me.

“You know a way to a man’s heart…” Charlotte begins. “…is through his taste buds.”

“So I’ve heard.” I chuckle.

“Then why are you single, dear? You’re a professional baker! You should have a line of men waiting to ask for your hand in marriage,” she tells me earnestly.

I snort, not meaning to, but I can’t help it. “Not sure.” I shrug. “Guess I intimidate them all.” I half-smile, wishing that were the truth.

“You gotta go out there and fetch them. They don’t just come crawling to you, darlin’. Men are like fish. You have to bait them properly.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” The corners of my lips tilt all the way to my eyes at her advice. Hell, maybe she’s right. I’m going out tonight to do just that.

Chapter Four

Braxton

I repaired fences and ran miles of barbed wire for the entire day. After I finish, I head home and quickly grab some leftovers from the fridge to eat, then jump in the shower. Once I’m done, I put on a button-up shirt, some clean jeans, and my nice cowboy boots. I’m going out tonight and can’t wait to drink the thoughts of Kat away.

Since it’s Saturday and my day started a little later, I was able to avoid seeing her this morning. I skipped breakfast Thursday and Friday, so I haven’t seen her for three days, which is a relief.

After I’m dressed, I grab my phone and walk to my truck. Before I drive off, I text Colton and let him know I’m on the way over.

Colton: Wanna just meet us there? Dunno how long it’s gonna take Presley to finish gettin’ ready.

Braxton: You put a ring on it, and you’re instantly whipped. See ya there!

Colton’s reply of the middle finger emoji makes me laugh. I drive straight to the Honky Tonk, where I plan to drink and dance the night away. Though I’m happy he found a nice girl to settle down with, I can’t help but wonder about myself. Between my reputation with women and my reservations, dating hasn’t been easy. And to make matters worse, I have Kat poisoning my mind.

I blast the radio, hoping it’ll put me in the right mood, and decide I’m going to have fun tonight.

Soon I’m parking and walking inside. Heading straight to the bar, I order a drink. I’m not surprised to find the dance floor crowded since there isn’t much else to do in this town. As soon as I have my beer, I down it in a few gulps. I’m ordering another one right as I hear my name being called behind me. With a smirk on my face, I turn and see Colton with Presley and following behind her is Kat.

My smile transforms into a scowl, and I turn to face the bar. I’m pissed and annoyed, considering Colton knows the whole story. A moment later, I feel a tap on my shoulder.

I swivel around and find myself face to face with her. “What are you doin’ here?” Kat asks, shooting daggers at me.

I roll my eyes, wondering if the universe is laughing at me right now. Shaking my head with a grunt, I grab my beer, then go to the dance floor. I know Colton followed me when I feel a firm hand on my shoulder.