Leave Him Loved_Harloe Rae

by Rae, Harloe

  I swat his chest. “You’re shameless.”

  He stoops to nip at my earlobe. “And you love me.”

  “I do.” Heat blazes up my neck at his very public display. A girl could get used to this.

  “Too much information,” Vannah deadpans. Her stony expression only takes a second to crack, her grin spreading far and wide. “Just joking. Practice makes the orgasms even better. How else would lover boy find your G-spot in one thrust? I expect to hear all of the dirty details later.”

  “You need to get laid.” I laugh.

  “Thanks for noticing.” She scours the room with a predatory glare. “I’m going hunting later. First, we need drinks.”

  As if hearing the summons, a server pops by our table. We order a shandy pitcher, Coors for the men, and a round of shots for everyone. Vannah insists on adding that last part to our tab.

  “We’re partying like college,” she reminds.

  “I’m too old for this,” I complain.

  Reeve snorts, lifting his glass in a collective cheers. “Don’t complain about your age to me, babe.”

  I nearly hack up a lung after slamming the liquid fire. “Gah, I don’t recall vodka tasting so horrible. It’s like rubbing alcohol.”

  Vannah licks her ruby-stained lips. “I taught you better than that. You’re out of shape.”

  Bea shrugs. “It tastes great to me.”

  “And this is why we’re instant besties,” Vannah coos.

  I scoff and turn to Reeve. “I’m totally being replaced.”

  “You’ll always be first on my list.” He smacks a loud kiss to my lips.

  “Whoa, whoa. I won’t let this city priss storm into my town and steal you away,” Gavin booms, shaking his fist. “No offense, gal pal.”

  I roll my eyes at his theatrics. “Yeah, sure. None taken.”

  He bats his lashes at me in his ridiculous way. “I’m totally messing with you. Please take him off my hands. He’s been so extra lately.”

  “I’ll remember this when you call, begging for a ride home,” Reeve drawls.

  Gavin hoots. “See? Now he’s got jokes. You’re finally making an honest man out of our guy.”

  I join in the laughter, the liquor already buzzing in my blood. “I wouldn’t go that far. He’s still a little crooked where it counts.”

  “Dirty, gal pal. I love it.” He holds up a hand for me to slap. “Dottie dearest will be so pleased to discover she was right all along.”

  I reflexively swing a glance around for the gossip queen. “We probably should’ve listened to her last summer. It would’ve saved some tears.”

  “You cried while we were apart?” Reeve appears devastated by this news.

  How could I not? The urge to confirm his suspicions tweaks my larynx. Instead, I smooth the furrow between his brows. “It’s all resolved. We don’t have to rehash any of that.”

  Vannah, of course, has no such reservations. She huffs and points at me with her beer. “By the bucketful. Your girl gets all up in her feels. Have you watched Friends with her yet? Grab the tissues. Who cries during a sitcom?”

  Gavin raises a palm. “Guilty.”

  She hitches her thumb at him while addressing me. “He’s just like Tyler.”

  “Told you.” I giggle. “My brother is very secure about displaying his emotions.”

  Gavin puffs out his chest. “I really have to meet this dude one day.”

  “We’ll plan a trip to Minneapolis. I can show you guys the city,” I offer with a smile.

  Reeve wraps his arms around me from behind, resting his chin on my shoulder. “Sounds like a great trip, babe.”

  “Then it’ll be my turn to get creative with never-ever dates.”

  “Even better.” He nuzzles into my neck.

  “Before I get pregnant from watching this Hallmark special, will you do me a favor?” Vannah asks Reeve.

  “That depends,” he replies.

  She smacks her forehead. “You’ve spent too much time with Audria. It’s almost like there are two of her.”

  “That’s not a bad thing.” I’m pretty sure when he burrows into the crook of my shoulder again, it’s purely for Vannah to gag over.

  As if proving my point, she swats at the air between us. “Dear Lord, go easy on the swoon. You’re gonna tap out before getting her down the aisle.”

  Reeve shakes his head with a grunt. “Not possible. She refills my cup every morning before sunrise.”

  “All right, Romeo. Just promise not to propose on Valentine’s Day.” She squeezes her palms together in a pleading gesture.

  He squints at her. “When is that again?”

  Vannah turns to Gavin. “Is he serious with this shit?”

  He takes a swig from his bottle. “I’m afraid so. I take zero responsibility for his stupidity.”

  Vannah pats Reeve’s arm. “In that case, we’re all set. Go nuts with your crazy self.”

  He tugs at the brim of his hat, his familiar smirk showcasing a dimple. “Glad we came to an agreement.”

  “Funny you should mention that,” Gavin cuts in. “Did Reeve tell you his alternate plan?”

  “I don’t think so?” I glance between them.

  The man himself scrubs the back of his neck. “Thanks, brother. Throw me under the bus.”

  “It’s romantic. She’s your lobster.” Gavin makes two connected loops with his fingers.

  I pin Reeve with a glare. “Did you binge all the episodes without me?”

  “Uh, kinda. But that’s not what he’s talking about.”

  “Tell me.” I poke him in the chest.

  “I planned to move if you weren’t going to stay in Bam. That is, if you’d have me.” His blue gaze swirls with heat that curls my toes. But above the lust clouding my thoughts is his desire to be with me.

  “Are you serious?” My voice is reed thin, emotion clogging the sound.

  “She’s totally going to cry,” Vannah whisper-shouts to everyone within earshot.

  “You hush,” I scold her, wiping at my face just in case.

  Reeve drags me into his chest for a hug, pressing us close enough that no space separates us. “Yeah, babe. Life would suck here without you. I’d wanna be wherever you are. That’s where my home is now.”

  “Oh, man.” I blow out a thick breath, fanning my face. “I don’t even know how to respond. That’s a really grand gesture.”

  “And he always claimed to suck at them,” Gavin jests.

  I ignore that, choosing to focus on my boyfriend. That term almost gives me pause, but a cheesy grin lifts my lips instead. “I’m looking forward to embracing this newfound journey with you, farmer.”

  “Long haul, babe.” He seals that vow, sweeping his lips across mine.

  “It better be. I’m not sticking around for just anyone.”

  “And I wouldn’t let her stay for any average schmo. Consider yourself blessed that I approve.” Vannah winks at us.

  “Yeah, what Red said.”

  “Nice rhyme, bro. You could be Tyler’s twin.” Vannah flicks Gavin’s ear.

  He sticks his tongue out at her, proving her point without realizing it. “I doubt he’s nearly as dashing. Right, Bea?”

  “Uh, sure.” She looks anything except convinced. I’ve been meaning to address their situation—or lack thereof—again. Maybe after a few more doses of liquid courage.

  “This calls for a toast and another round to commemorate this happy ending.” Vannah takes it upon herself to hand everyone in our circle a tequila shot. It’s moments like these where I believe my friend is a mind reader.

  I wrinkle my nose at the proffered alcohol. “Are you trying to get me drunk, Van? If you want to take advantage of me, just ask nicely. Pouring booze down my throat will make me hug the porcelain throne before midnight.”

  She quirks a brow at me. “I don’t need liquor to slip between those thighs.”

  “She’s taken.” Reeve chuckles.

  “Do I have to? The first one is still
sloshing in my belly.” I prefer letting these potential landmines settle for at least an hour between blasts. A pleasant warmth is spreading through my veins, but that can take a horrific turn in an instant. I hold the booze up to Reeve. “How about you handle this for me?”

  “I don’t want liquor dick, babe. Gavin is double fisting on my behalf.”

  “Okay, you’re off the hook.” Damn, I need a drinking surrogate. “Vannah, this bad boy is all on you.”

  “Quit being a wimp, gal pal.”

  I glare at Gavin. “No one’s talking to you.”

  “Bea is.” He jerks a thumb at her.

  “That’s her choice.”

  “So feisty.” He laughs.

  “That’s what good sex does to a girl,” Vannah quips and downs my shot like a champion. She doesn’t even wince at the burn. “Speaking of, I need to get on the prowl. Point me in a decent direction?”

  Reeve and Gavin diligently follow her request, surveying the crowd for eligible targets. I almost feel sorry for whoever they choose because my friend has a hungry gleam in her eyes.

  “All right, I’m off. I’ll circle back with a success report.” She struts toward the bar with an extra swing to her hips. I give it two minutes before drooling admirers bombard her.

  I allow my gaze to wander from my friend and return to our table. Reeve polishes off his beer and shoots me a wink. I give him one of my own. Across from us, Gavin wraps an arm around Bea’s shoulders. Her resulting smile can only be described as blissed out. They would make such a cute couple—if only.

  Not wanting to intrude on a potential moment, I flick my stare to the opposite wall, and it snags on the stage. It’s always dark and out of commission. I bounce my attention to Reeve and nod to the shadowed area. “I’ve been meaning to ask and keep forgetting. Does anyone ever perform here? It seems like a great spot.”

  He tips his head back with a laugh. “Like Jason Aldean? It’s not easy to convince any talent worth paying to play a set in Bam. We’re not easy to spot on the map, you know.”

  I wave that nonsense off. “That’s crazy. This is the best town.”

  “It took you a few months to arrive at that conclusion.”

  “No, maybe a few weeks. But you were a big part of making me feel welcome.” A lightbulb idea flicks on in my mind. “Hey, why don’t you sing?”

  His eyes flare wide. “No way.”

  “Why not?”

  “That’s something special for you,” he insists.

  I cup his scruffy jaw. “How sweet, but I’m willing to share.”

  Reeve tilts into my palm. “Is that what you really want?”

  The green-eyed monster attempts to speak up, but I tamp that jealousy down. “Selfishly? No. But you’re too good to not let others listen.”

  “Well, lucky for you, playing in public terrifies me. I have a slight case of stage fright with an audience involved.”

  I gasp. “You’re afraid of something?”

  He pretends to shudder in his boots. “Unbelievable, I know. I try not to advertise that fact. It’s bad for my image.”

  I make the motion of zipping my lips. “Your secret is safe with me.”

  He hums against my puckered mouth. “Why’re you so sexy?”

  I feel a tendril of fire rise from the ashes in my lower belly. That slight stirring notches the temperature up several degrees. “You have to ask that since I’m officially your girlfriend. Plus, I’m new and sparkly.”

  “Nah, your shine will never wear off. I can’t seem to get enough of you even when we’re next to each other.” He glances behind us. “Should we sneak off to the bathroom?”

  “Already?” But I picture us locked in a stall together.

  “Always,” he corrects.

  “What about them?” I jerk my chin at Gavin and Bea, bundled forms huddled close on the bench across from us.

  The busily whispering pair fail to notice we’re staring at them.

  “They look preoccupied.”

  “That’s good enough for me.” I grip a fistful of his shirt, yanking him down to my level. “Love you, farmer.”

  “I love you, babe. Thanks for giving me another chance.”

  “As if I had a choice. I’d be lost without you.”

  He scoffs, but his dimpled grin mesmerizes me. “In this town? It’s easy to find a friendly face.”

  “But I only want one giving me pointers on country living.”

  “How fortunate that you found him on the first day.” Reeve presses his lips to my forehead, stamping me with an unnecessary reminder.

  This man is my damn kryptonite. “Fortunate indeed. Consider me filthy rich in love, farmer.”

  Bam’s banquet hall—which is conveniently called The Barn—is packed to the haystacks with two-stepping pairs showing off their speedy footwork. This Saturday night is an opposite scene compared to when Reeve brought me by all those months ago. The ground is littered with golden straw and sequins, skittering in ripples with the crowd’s constant movement. There’s a band playing upbeat country tunes that has everyone bouncing their knees. A thrill pulses through the space, along with the sweet aroma of sunshine. It only adds to this evening’s splendor. This is my first barn dance, after all.

  Winter thawed into spring, and summer is just beginning to stretch for the season. Somehow, a year has passed since I made that maiden voyage down Main Street. Guess it’s true about time flying when surrounded by fun. The excitement never seems to stop, contrary to my horrifically judgmental initial beliefs.

  “He’s so good with her,” Jamie says from beside me, interrupting my thoughts.

  My gaze lands on Reeve and Gabby spinning on the dance floor. “They’re great partners.”

  She snorts and swigs a sip of soda. “Yeah, it’s not hard for him to cart her this way and that. She’s standing on his feet.”

  “Maybe I should try that.” Reeve has tried to teach me this seemingly easy choreography. His attempts usually end with me just hanging on while he leads us all about. My stare is helplessly drawn to him as he makes another twirl with Gabby in tow. I’d never complain about being held in those very capable arms.

  “I’m sure he’s ready for you to hop on.” His sister laughs, yanking me from the clouds once again. I’m too reminiscent, getting caught up in reverie and whimsy. She nudges me when I fail to respond in an adequate amount of seconds. “Reeve will make a wonderful father.”

  That gets my attention, and I choke on my drink. “Excuse me?”

  “Oh, please. As if you aren’t planning on having an entire litter.”

  I quirk a brow at her reference to me being a dog, or an animal in general. “We haven’t been dating that long.”

  Jamie finds her husband near the makeshift bar lit up in a corner. Her sigh is candy-coated in sap and sugar. “Love doesn’t care about numbers. It’s all about what the heart wants.”

  “I suppose.” The agreement pounds with conviction through my veins. Settling down with Reeve is a fairy tale of sorts that becomes a bit more feasible with each passing week. But children are far off my radar.

  “Audria, did you see me dancing?” Gabby beams at me, fresh from her uncle’s toes. The lack of formality between us has been a comforting change. I almost feel like part of the family. It took me a ton of convincing—and cupcakes—to break her habit of calling me Ms. Griffin.

  Her gap-toothed joy is infectious, and I’m instantly bathing in pure delight. “I sure did.”

  She curtsies. “It’s super fun. My classes are paying off.”

  Jamie snorts. “You better be learning more steps than that for what I’m paying.”

  Gabby does a pirouette and slides into the splits. I wince at the phantom pain twinging my thighs. The little girl just smiles wide, flinging her arms out to the side. “Happy?”

  Her mother laughs. “You’re quite talented at gloating.”

  “You asked for it.” She bats her lashes.

  “And there’s my little diva,” Jamie ta
cks on.

  Gabby keeps grinning. “I inherited that from you.”

  “Now you sound like your father,” she mutters.

  “He’s right, though. Daddy says we’re sassy.”

  “You got a double scoop of that.” Jamie winks at her.

  Gabby ignores the barb, her eyes flitting to mine. “Are you still planning to teach first grade? I want you to be my teacher again. Third grade is way cooler.”

  I do a shimmy at the reminder. Principal Wheeler just offered me the position on Monday. It’s been brought up in numerous conversations ever since. “Every grade is great, kiddo. You would’ve said the same about second last year.”

  “That was forever ago. I’m so much older now.” She pouts.

  “You sure are. Ms. Kressly will love having you in her class.” I nod toward Bea across the barn. She’s doing her best to ignore Gavin, who’s standing behind her. His obnoxious laughter leads me to believe he’s trying to gain a certain woman’s attention. Those two still haven’t sorted their differences.

  Gabby sighs. “I guess. But I still love you the most. Uncle Ree is lucky to have you as his girlfriend.”

  “I agree.” Then I laugh at the man in question when he rolls his eyes. “I’m lucky, too. Your uncle is a very good dancer.”

  Her eyes sparkle under the twinkling lights. “Uh-huh. I think he wants to dance with you next.”

  I glance up at Reeve from under my lashes. “Does he?”

  The blatant heat reflecting in his gaze is hot enough to set my shorts on fire. From that penetrating smolder, I’d guess he wants to do far more than that. “Will you go somewhere with me?”

  “One day, you’ll quit assuming I’ll say no.” I stand from my chair and sidle up next to him.

  He brushes some hair off my forehead. “I’m really hoping you’ll say yes, especially in this case.”

  “How can I resist such an offer?” His surprises never cease to amaze me. A giddy swarm of flutters attacks my belly at the possibilities.

  “Easy,” he drawls. “You don’t.”

  Gabby squeaks from beside us. “You two are so super cute. I can barely stand it. Can I please be a flower girl in your wedding?”