Page 62 of Worth the Fall
Colton was beaming at me. “Man, you’re pretty good at your job, huh?”
I tucked my hair back behind my ear. “No, my company-”
Colton shifted gears and pulled onto the main road. “Listen, Ally, if there’s one thing I’ve learned about doin’what you’re passionate about, it’s that you need to accept the compliments you’re given.”
“Why’s that?”
He shifted in his seat, thinking about the answer. “Because the people that are complimentin’ you are the ones that want to see you succeed.”
I thought about Dennis’ words about my script. “Well, in that case, thank you, Colton.”
“You’re welcome, Ally.” He popped his gum and stole a glance in my direction.
“Okay, my turn for a question,” I said, leaning on the middle console.
“Shoot.”
“Why do you call me Ally?” It no longer punched me in the gut like it used to. The way Colton said it, with that Southern twang and a hint of a flirt, I was starting to love the way it sounded all over again.
He glanced at me, a hint of worry in his gaze. “Do you prefer Allegra?”
I swallowed, not sure how deep I wanted to dive into this right now. “Well, there’s only been one other per…it’s just that you’re the only person who calls me it, so I was curious why.”
“I can definitely call you Allegra if you’re more comfortable with it, but as I said, I knew you were a country girl from the minute I met ya. I mean, I was sweatin’ in my boots just talkin’ to someone as beautiful as you, and then “Ally” just sorta slipped out.” He was rambling, like he was nervous. “Ever since then, it’s how I know ya.”
I took his calloused hand, squeezing it tight. “Well, I reallylike that you call me ‘Ally.’”
His hand relaxed in mine. “Good, ‘cause I like calling you ‘Ally.’”
He pulled behind the rodeo arena, squeezing my hand. “If I could bottle up the feelin’ I get before a ride, they’d sell it for millions.”
I squeezed his hand back. “I think they call that whiskey.”
We climbed out of the truck.
The Lazy E arena was an impressive size for how small a town Gurthie was.
The world’s largest indoor rodeo arena.
It could fit over seven thousand people, was home to the original Professional Bull Riding, and was one of the few arenas with a 100% dirt foundation-something the high-performance horses thrived in.
“I’d better head in to talk to Thompson before the show,” I said, mostly to myself.
“Kiss me first,” Colton commanded.
Yes, sir.
His hands were around my waist, mine on his neck. He tilted his head, inviting me even deeper into his mouth.
“You’re going to do great,” I whispered as I pulled away.
This was a big show for him. There would be a big event after the show, with sponsors, press, and of course, NFR judges.
Colton’s stats were incredible, but he still had a few more shows to get him qualified. I could feel his nerves, no matter how cool he seemed.
“Thank you, Ally. I’ll see you around the show?” He asked,a soft look in his bright green eyes.
“Yes. I’ll come see you as soon as you’re finished with your ride,” I promised.
