Page 91 of Roping My Rival

“No shower sex.” I laugh. “Save it for the road.”

Warren

Darla’s birthday party is a success.

Dane has never stressed over anything as much as this party. He runs a business and writes exams, practices roping and pulls his weight around the house. Yet the details over a party for his sweet sister sent his stress through the roof.

The gathering room in the care home had balloons and her favourite flowers. We had a cake large enough to feed the town and presents. Good lord, did she have presents. Both my brothers, Maise, and my dads, came to help her celebrate her 30th birthday.

Maise thought it was so awesome to have an auntie, and the two of them spent more time together than anyone. Dane had fretted for nothing, but I understood why he was nervous. It was a lot to get used to, going from the two of them to an entire family again.

Because that’s what we are. Family.

Just because there aren’t rings on our fingers doesn’t mean Dane and Darla are outsiders. One day, maybe, we’ll make it legally official, but until then, I’m more than happy with the way things are.

“She loved all the Rolos you bought her. She’s gonna get cavities or a bellyache or both,” Dane says as we clean up the wrapping paper in the common room.

“But did you see her face?” I laugh, and Dane does too.

“Sure did. You’re her new favourite, I think.”

“Nope. That will always be you.”

He pauses and glances around the room. Most of the guests have gone, and Darla wanted to organize her gifts in her room, leaving me and Dane to clean up, which isn’t a problem.

“I never imagined I’d get to do something like this for her. I know it’s just a party, but…it sort of makes me feel like we have a normal life now. I’m glad I can make her happy with something like this.” There’s a shine to his eyes, and I put my garbage bag down.

“God, you are such a big softie. Come here.”

Dane laughs as he hugs me. “It was easier when I was an asshole. You teased me less.”

“Well, yes, but now I get to kiss you after I tease you.” I kiss the side of his neck. “And I get to sleep with you every night.”

“You also hog the blankets.” Dane laughs.

“But then you snuggle closer. It’s all part of my plan.” I laugh and step away from him. “We should see if your sister needs help. We still have a rodeo tomorrow, and we’re gonna kick ass.”

“We are winning the championship this year, Warren. When we do, it’s the start of a dynasty, baby. We’re making up for all the lost years. When I quit, when you had to take care of yourself, and while I was suspended. Team roping won’t know what hit them.”

“I’m all in, Dane. Let’s do it.”

November

Rodeo Finals Championship

Dane

When I promised Warren we’d win the championship, I wasn’t just saying that. I meant it. We had a stellar season this year. I’m tired, though. Between roping and working on the business, I need a break. But not until we have that prize money and those buckles.

Only then will I stop.

The crowd is the biggest I’ve ever performed in front of. The money is the biggest pot, and the man I’m with? He’s the best thing to happen to me, and I’m not about to let him down.

They announce our names as we move into the chutes, and for the last ten minutes, Warren hasn’t said a word. I know he’s ready, but it’s so unlike him to remain completely silent.

We take our chutes, and Petey shuffles a little under Warren. Once they’re both still, a momentary silence falls. Warren lifts his chin, and we’re off.

Last night we spoke about how we wanted today to play out. Warren’s throw would go almost immediately after the barrier, and he’d count on me to predict the throw to the steer’s heels. Both of us play to our strengths and trust each other to get the job done.