Page 4 of Jade

Tilly suffers from anxiety, and sometimes I’m the only one that can bring her out of her spirals. The trauma she suffered after being kidnapped and held at gunpoint takes its toll when she’s stressed. She doesn’t like change, and she sure as shit clams up when she feels spooked.

“What if she has no choice? You know how these people are; they’re underhanded and ruthless.”

I steer Mustang to the left so we’re now side by side. I tilt Tilly’s chin gently with my fingertips. “Nothin’ is gonna happen. I won’t let it. Got me?”

She slowly nods, a weak smile on her lips. This isn’t like her. When she’s had anxiety attacks in the past, it’s usually regression, or something triggering the past that upsets her. To Tilly, losing this place—her home—is catastrophic.

My words are gentle, but the meaning behind them is clear: she’s safe. With me, she will always be safe.

“Tilly St. Clair.” She blinks. “Breathe, baby girl.”

She swallows hard, and I kick myself for not having a paper bag handy. We’ve gone over breathing techniques before, but she isn’t in a full attack. I can bring her back. “I-I’m fine.”

“You’re safe. Nobody is gonna set foot on this property without gettin’ shot,” I say. “That’s a goddamn promise.”

“I’m just being dramatic.” She rubs her palms over her cheeks, pinkening them further. “Don’t mind me. Sometimes things trigger me without warning.”

“Hey.” My words are soft. “It’s not dramatic. I just don’t want you to worry. You’re a huge part of what makes the Stilettos a success. You know that, right?”

“Well, I am the newest patched member, so I haven’t contributed like some of the others⁠—”

“That isn’t true, and you know it. You’re the glue around here: the peacemaker, the voice of reason.”

“Really? I thought that was Pearl.” She laughs.

Pearl is the mother hen of the group.

I smirk. “She does round everyone up like their tails are on fire.”

Tilly reaches for the reins again. Puddles is such a good girl, standing still, waiting for her next command. I pat her head, my eyes still on Tilly. “She sure does.” She thumbs behind her. “I should be getting back.”

“You got errands to run? I’m goin’ into town later. I can give you a ride.”

Her posture relaxes; she’s through the worst of it. I’m proud of her. I’ve had anxiety attacks myself, and they’re no picnic. “That would be great. Thanks, Dusty.”

“Race you back to the house?”

“What are we, twelve?”

I scratch my head. “You have a point⁠—”

“The last one back is a rotten egg!” She turns Puddles, applying steady pressure on the reins, then takes off with a, “Go, Puddles, go!”

I grin behind her, circling as I lead Mustang forward, knowing full well I’m gonna let her win.

CHAPTER 3

JADE

What the hell is the matter with you? I chide myself when I make it back to Rustic Grove with Dustin and Mustang on my heels. I swear to all that is holy, that man can get anything out of me. I didn’t mean to get so anxious, but everything got overwhelming for a second, and I forgot how to breathe. At least Dustin doesn’t look at me like I have three heads. He’s sweet and caring.

“I forgot Puddles is a wonder horse.” Dustin laughs when he makes it back to the stables.

I pat her, leaning down to kiss her neck. “She’s the best.”

“Mustang’s ego is a little bruised.”

“Oh, really? Are you sure yours isn’t?”