Page 40 of Property of Hayride
“Okay.” I’m a bit nervous, but it doesn’t seem like he’s about to say something that will upset me.
Hayride looks a bit uncomfortable, but only in the sense that he’s got something on his mind and maybe doesn’t know quite how to say it. Either way, I know it’s going to be fine.
“I’m just gonna come right out and ask because I’m no good at explaining shit I feel when I’m nervous.”
Aw. How adorable.
“Tell me.”
“You’re it for me, Natalya Scott. I feel you, right here.” He pauses to tap his chest over his heart. “And I know we haven’t been together long, but it doesn’t matter. Not to me. I know that I want to be with you,only you, so I need you to end my torment and say you’ll be mine.”
I blink, processing his words. It’s not a declaration of love, but the closest to it. And do I need that? Words that aren’t backed up by meaning? No. I’ve had that.
I want to feel something deep and intimate. A bond that’s more than sex. Something more than words can ever describe.
I think I can have that with Hayride.
“Well?”
My answer is easy. I lean forward and kiss him.
When he tugs me onto his lap, I wrap my arms around his neck. I hear him pull on the cord, and the blinds close.
“Is there a lock on this door? Because I’ve never had sex in a hospital.”
Scandalous.
“Pretty sure we’ll get caught.”
“Isn’t the idea of it a turn-on?” He’s teasing me.
“I don’t know about that,” I laugh.
“Just remember, Hayrides aren’t just for fall, my gorgeous girl. They’re a special treat available year-round.”
The arrogance of this biker. He’s so damn cocky.
I love it.
“Just remember that my father is here and he’s in the room with Thad.”
Hayride groans. “There goes my erection. No need to worry now.”
I can’t help giggling.
Everything really is going to be okay. My brother isn’t missing anymore. I’ve found a guy I’m beginning to fall for. And it’s autumn, one of my favorite times of year, in a town where Halloween and all things spooky are embraced.
Raven’s Crest is a place where I can make a home instead of wandering, never finding where I feel like I fit in. And Hayride is making the transition easy.
I think I can finally let a little happiness in and embrace it.
THREE DAYS LATER
“DAD SAYS YOU’VE GOTa boyfriend.”
It’s the first thing Thad says to me as he wakes up, groaning as he moves into a comfortable position. His voice sounds froggy and raw, raspy in a way it never has before now.
I don’t draw any attention to it. “My prince charming in a town known for carnage,” I laugh, reminding him of what he said to me at the Mayfield Inn.
