Mustang Hollywood: A standalone, small town, enemies-to-lovers romance (Mustang Ranch Book 3)

by Eva Haining

  I’m sporting a semi at the mere thought of it. I don’t want to react to her. If anything, I’m trying to forget the fact that I kissed her in a drunken haze. She’s my work colleague, and she has to stay in that lane. Anything else spells disaster, and yet here I stand unable to tear my gaze from her body.

  Today is going to be my own personal hell.

  By the time she glides over to where I’m standing, I think I could benefit from throwing myself in the river. My cock is straining against my jeans, and I’m struggling to adjust and hide it from the entire cast and crew, and more importantly, Maisie.

  There’s a shyness to her as she evades my gaze—dipping her pretty painted toes in the edge of the river, her head thrown back, breathing in the warm morning air.

  “Morning, Maisie. You ready for today?” Without a glance in my direction, she exhales in a plea to the heavens.

  “As I’ll ever be.” Her skin glistens in the unforgiving Texas heat, and I’m mesmerized by the way her fingers dance over her clavicle, soothing their way down her chest.

  I’m thinking of anything else, running my lines over and over until they’re clinical and ready to be executed with the utmost professionalism.

  She seems unfazed by our late-night dalliance—my epic lapse in judgment.

  We’ve been at it for hours, and I can’t seem to get it right. Every movement feels forced and awkward. I’m trying too hard to focus on making it mundane. I know it needs to be full-on sex appeal on screen, but translating that seems beyond my reach today.

  Hazel calls an impromptu break, asking Maisie and me to take a moment to speak with her.

  “What’s going on? This was electric in the audition, and no offense, but it’s painful to watch today.” Maisie drops her gaze, and I know she thinks it’s her fault. I was hoping it would become laborious, but every time I pull her into my arms, my pulse starts racing.

  “My head’s not in the game. Sorry. I’m overthinking it.” Hazel can sense my bullshit a mile away.

  “What’s there to overthink? Grab her, kiss her like she’s the love of your life. Do I need to show you?”

  “No! I’m aware of the process.”

  “Then show me. There’s no one else around.”

  “Is there something I’m doing wrong?” Maisie interjects. And, it just pisses me off.

  “I don’t need either of you to explain a passionate kiss to me. I’m not feeling it today. Let’s just call it for the day. I’ll be fine tomorrow.” I don’t wait for a response, heading for the main house. Maybe a beer and a chat with Maddox will calm me the hell down. I don’t understand why this is so difficult.

  Hazel shouts after me, but as her voice gets lost in the breeze. I shake off the day, finding myself on the now-familiar back porch of the Hale family. I wrap my knuckles on the faded wood doorjamb, but the door flies open before my hand is back at my side.

  “The baby’s coming!” Mad leaves the door swinging on its hinges as he disappears inside.

  “Oh, wow. You going to the hospital?”

  “Yeah. I’m just…” He’s running around like a headless chicken.

  “Mad. Stop. Take a deep breath. What do you need?”

  “I had a plan. The girls were going to go to Kirby’s house, but his kids are sick. A.B. wanted Savannah and Jax to be at the hospital, but they’ll need to look after the girls for me. I can’t ask Jax’s mom to watch them. Rae says her house smells weird.” A low rumble comes from the bedroom—a primal cry. It’s A.B.

  “I’ll watch them.”

  “What about work? The movie.”

  “We just wrapped for the day. I’ve got nothing but time. Let me do this for you. We’ll have a blast.” His expression is equal parts gratitude, trepidation, and relief. He’s smart enough not to refuse me when another feral moan echoes down the hall.

  “You’re a lifesaver.” Grabbing his keys, he disappears into the bedroom, emerging with A.B. cradled in his arms. Dashing to the front door, I grab the suitcase that’s been sitting by the entrance for weeks in anticipation of this very moment.

  Once A.B. is nestled in the front seat, I turn my attention to Maddox. His normally tanned complexion is eerily pale.

  “You got this. Don’t worry about the girls. They’ll be fine.”

  “I told Rae to wait in her room with Ruby. They were freaking out hearing their momma in so much pain.”

  “Go! Focus on A.B. and on getting that baby boy here safely.” With a sobering nod, he pulls me in for a manly hug, slapping my back so hard it winds me.

  “Thanks, Jasper. I’ll call you when we get there. Tell the girls their mommy’s going to be just fine.”

  “I’m on it.” Rather than wait to wave him off, I head back inside. The best thing I can do for them right now is to occupy Rae and Ruby. Calling out their names, I’m putting together a plan. I’ve never babysat for anyone before, but these girls have gotten used to me being around over the past few months, so hopefully, they won’t mind spending the rest of the day with me.

  “Rae! Ruby! It’s Jasper. Your mommy and daddy are on their way to the hospital to have your new little brother. Do you two lovely ladies want to come and spend the day with me?”

  They come barreling down the hallway, knocking me on my ass. Wrapping their little arms around my neck, I’m flooded with warmth like the Grinch. My heart just grew three sizes.

  “Is Mommy okay?” Their eyes search mine as I lay on the ground still pinned beneath them.

  “You don’t need to worry about your mom. She’s doing exactly what she needs to right now. Before you know it, she’ll be back home with your little brother. Your daddy is taking great care of her.” Ruby takes me at my word. Rae stares me down until she’s convinced I’m telling the truth.

  “Can we get ice cweam?” How can you refuse a toddler?

  “Sure thing, cutie-pie.” I don’t have a car, so we’ll have to walk into town. Thankfully, Rae is old enough to steer me in the right direction.

  “Okay, Mr. Jasper. We need sunscreen. Ruby needs to go the restroom before we leave, and her stroller is on the front porch.” Sunscreen—check. Stroller—check. Restroom with a toddler. I have no idea what I’m supposed to do.

  “Can you help Ruby in the restroom, or do I need to figure it out?”

  “I can do it.” I breathe an audible sigh of relief.

  It takes me a few minutes to figure out the stroller—it’s like some sort of IQ test just getting it open and secured in place. Next to the stroller there’s a bag chock-full of wipes, bibs, a blanket I assume is Ruby’s, sippy cups and pacifiers. What the hell, I grab it and stuff it underneath the stroller. Better safe than sorry, right?

  Today has taken a strange turn. I’ve gone from failed cowboy Casanova to daycare novice in the space of an hour. In truth, it’s a welcome distraction. When they’re ready, Rae helps me click Ruby into the stroller, and I go over the top with the sunscreen. The sun seems hotter here in Texas. I know it sounds crazy, but you can literally feel yourself baking at the height of the afternoon sun. I’m not taking any chances. If I hand these girls back to Mad a bright shade of lobster, he’ll have my guts for garters.

  What would normally be a ten-minute walk alone takes a good half hour with Rae skipping alongside as I push Ruby in the stroller. The rhythmic lull of the wheels is oddly relaxing and has Ruby out for the count in the first five minutes.

  Sally Rae is full of beans, but I can tell she’s worried about her mom.

  “Did you know my mom didn’t think she could have kids? That’s why Daddy has been scared this whole time. He tries to hide it, but he can’t hide his worried face.” I’m sure she’s not supposed to share this kind of personal information with me, but it gives me more of an appreciation for why Mad was so on edge.

  “All dads are apprehensive when it’s time for babies to be born. Your mom has to do all the hard work, and your dad has to stand by feeling kinda useless.”

  “What does Momma have to do to get the ba
by?” Holy shit. I just inadvertently opened a can of worms.

  “I’m an actor, not a doctor. Probably best to talk to your mom about it sometime.” I quickly change tactics. “What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? I’m a mint guy.”

  “I like to get two scoops. Always two different kinds. It’s more interesting and fabulous.” Now that her mind is occupied, our conversation jumps all over the place as we stroll through town, a window into the complicated mind of a nine-year-old. I can barely keep up!

  By the time we reach the café, this morning’s shoot is a distant memory.

  The locals have been so welcoming and respectful of my privacy. We haven’t been inundated as we enjoy our ice cream sundaes. The girls are the stars of the show. Rae has been telling everyone that Mommy went to the hospital to have a baby brother. That earns her an extra scoop and her favorite sprinkles from the guy behind the counter.

  I’m aware of people staring, but it’s different. It’s not because I’m J.J. Savage. I think they’re questioning Mad’s decision to let me watch the girls! These two are royalty in this town. It’s refreshing to sit back and watch.

  Rae’s attention turns to the door as the tinkling bell heralds a new customer.

  “Maisie!” She’s up and out her chair, throwing herself into Maisie’s arms, and is met with overwhelming warmth.

  Maisie’s gaze moves to where I’m sitting with Ruby perched on my knee, her face covered in ice cream. Disturbed, she turns her attention back to the young girl staring up at her with adoration. “How are y’all doing? Where’s your momma today?”

  “Haven’t you heard? Mommy and Daddy are at the hospital. The baby is coming! Mr. Jasper is looking after us. Will you come join us?” Maisie looks to me, shifting on her heels—uncomfortable at best. “Please, please, please?”

  She shoots an apologetic glance my way as she accepts Rae’s invitation. “I’d love to. Let me give them my order, and I’ll be right over.”

  Rae comes skipping back toward us with a grin plastered across her sweet little face.

  Deep breaths.

  This morning was just a blip. Same as me kissing her drunk was a blip, and also my inability to speak to her for more than five minutes without starting a fight.

  Sliding into the chair across from me, I’m uneasy at her proximity. When did I become a simpering idiot, devoid of style and charm?

  “So A.B. left you in charge? That’s surprising.” There’s a playfulness to her tone.

  “A.B. was a little preoccupied. Maddox was freaking out, and I happened to appear at the right time. It’s the least I can do for them. They’ve been so welcoming.”

  “They’re great. Where was Jax in all the excitement?”

  “He and Savannah are going to the hospital. At least that’s what I think is happening. Mad was all over the place and could barely string a sentence together. Poor guy.” A snort escapes her, much to her chagrin. It’s comforting to witness her derision of a man other than me.

  “They’ve waited a long time for this.”

  “Yeah, Rae mentioned something on the walk here. I had no idea. I’m pleased for them. They really are such a great couple.” And just like that, the conversation flows. Maisie regales me with the folklore of A.B. and Maddox Hale. I’m enthralled. It has all the elements of an amazing love story, and the actor in me wants to pick their brains for this movie. Not that they’ll have the time or the inclination any time soon.

  Ruby’s getting restless. “Can we go pway at the park?” I squeeze her tight to my chest.

  “I’m not sure where the park is.”

  “Maisie knows!” Rae interjects. “She can show you.”

  “I’m sure Miss Maisie has other plans. We can’t take up all her time.”

  “Actually, my plans were canceled. Something about not feeling it.” A wry grin creeps at the corners of her lips.

  “Whoever said that is clearly disturbed.” I’m rewarded with a soft chuckle. “If you really don’t mind?”

  Pulling Rae close at her side, her eyes find mine. “Not at all. I love spending time with the girls! Plus, I’m not sure you should be let loose at the swing park without adult supervision. All the mommas will swarm you like bees on honey.”

  “And you’re going to swat them off? Careful, you almost sound jealous.” She’s blushing.

  “Hardly! I’m just worried your movie-star ego will get stuck on the chute, and the girls will be stranded. I’m concerned for their safety.” Scraping the bottom of her glass with the long sundae spoon, she can’t even look me in the eye. Rae is sporting a sly grin as she shifts her gaze between my co-star and me.

  “We better go before my giant ego can’t get out the door, and we’re stuck in here all day.” I shoot a wink in Rae’s direction. I think I’ve got an ally.

  With Ruby strapped back in the stroller and Rae close at my side, we head out into the late-afternoon sun. Sauntering through the town square, I let Maisie lead the way. Everyone we come across has a kind greeting for their local star and send well wishes for A.B. as Rae excitedly exclaims the news of her impending sibling.

  No one pays me any mind. I’m just a guy standing in the shadow of a hometown sweetheart. It’s like being in the twilight zone, and I’m thoroughly enjoying it.

  I hate to admit it, but Maisie Bryant isn’t the worst company. She’s got brains and beauty.

  Dammit.

  Chapter Twelve

  MAISIE

  “Higher, Jasper, higher!” Sally Rae is determined to wring every last drop of daylight from the sky tonight. Ruby is ready to go home and crawl into bed, but J.J. is wrapped around Rae’s little finger, just like every other man in her life. Pushing her as high as she can go on the swing, her laugher echoes out into the night air. It’s infectious.

  Ruby waddles over to where I’m sitting watching from the bench.

  “I want Mommy. I want to go night-night.” Pulling her up into my lap, I play with the soft curls of her hair.

  “What if I come read you a bedtime story? Could I do that tonight? Mommy is still at the hospital.”

  “Okay.” She snuggles against me, and I melt. She’s the cutest little thing.

  A few minutes later, J.J. finally convinces Rae it’s time to go. You can tell he never babysat a day in his life, and I find it strangely endearing. He threw himself in at the deep end today, and after this morning, he seems like a different person right now.

  With Ruby settled in the stroller, J.J. and Rae fall in at my side as we meander toward the park exit. “Have you heard from Mad?” I inquire.

  Pulling his phone from his back pocket, he sends off a quick text. A reply comes through almost instantly.

  “Jax says she’s ready to push. Mad and Savannah are in with her. He’s pacing the hallway.” Tapping a quick reply, he turns his attention to me. “He said he can come back and stay with the girls. I told him to stay there. I can get two small girls to go to sleep, right?” There’s concern in his voice.

  “Umm… it’s nice that you offered. Does that count?”

  “Oh, shit. I just thought Mad could use his best friend. He was so on edge earlier. I’d want my best friend around to hug it out and smoke a cigar with when I have a kid.”

  “Are you planning to travel back to 1950 to have children?” A grin tugs at the corners of his lips.

  “You know what I mean. I just think it’s good for Jax to be there. I wanted to help. Should I message him and tell him to come back?”

  “I don’t mean to tease. It’s actually very sweet of you to step in. Lucky that scene went to pot today, otherwise you wouldn’t have been on hand to swoop in and earn brownie points for effort.”

  “That almost sounds like a compliment.”

  “Maybe it was.” My stomach is filled with unwanted butterflies taking flight. His eyes find mine, usually so blue, they’re almost gray in the fading sunlight, sparkling like diamonds. “What if I walk back with y’all and help get them to sleep? It’s plain sailing on
ce they’re down for the night.” His whole face lights up like a kid on Christmas morning.

  “I’m not even going to pretend to think on it. Yes, I’d love your help. I have no earthly idea what I’m doing.”

  We fall in step as we wind our way back to the town square, but as Rae slows, J.J. sweeps her up onto his shoulders and carries her the rest of the way. She’s gripping his forehead for dear life, pulling his eyebrows up so high, she’s giving him a bad facelift. I can’t help but chuckle.

  He’s so wrapped up in her that he doesn’t seem to notice people staring as we pass. Maybe he’s just used to the attention. I pretty much death stare anyone who gives me the look, the one that says ‘gurl, you bagged J.J. Savage.’ Nothing could be further from the truth, and after what happened on set, I don’t need any more awkwardness heaped on me.

  I breathe a sigh of relief when we hit the outskirts of town. The last burst of daylight drops behind the trees, edging toward the horizon with each lazy step. Crickets provide a welcome reprieve to the silence that spans between us.

  There are so many things I want to say, but I’m struggling for the right words. J.J. finally breaks the silence.

  “Sorry about today.” My stomach starts somersaulting its way up into my throat.

  “You don’t need to apologize. That’s acting, right? Some scenes come easier than others. Should I be doing something different? It seemed to work for us during the audition. Maybe a little too well, but today it felt awkward.”

  “Can we talk about this once little ears are asleep? It’s embarrassing enough.” Why would he be embarrassed? Now I’m nervous, so I fix my eyes on the stroller and walk the rest of the way alone with my thoughts, fears, and insecurities.

  When the porch lights of the ranch come into view, Ruby starts fussing. She’s overtired and underfed. Ice cream isn’t supposed to be a substitute for dinner.