Page 102 of Savage Heart

Linc grins and shuts the car door.

“It was . . . such a great day,” I tell Maverick. “Linc had the time of his life.”

Maverick smiles and steps closer. “I hope you did too.”

I nod, feeling shy all of a sudden.

“Come back anytime . . . please. Seeing you two out there—it was great for me too. And seeing you ride Lady again . . . just as it’s meant to be.”

He reaches for the driver’s door, ever the gentleman, but his hand catches mine before he opens it. His touch sends a spark up my arm, reminding me of last night all over again.

“Before you go . . . I have a question. How about a proper date soon? Just you and me.”

I pause, my pulse quickening. The idea thrills and terrifies me.

“Where would we ever go around here?” I ask, trying to keep my voice light, but it’s a genuine question.

Small towns like this don’t offer privacy.

He leans in, his eyes locking on mine with intensity. “I was thinking somewhere special, like Nonna Bella.”

Nonna Bella—the Italian place, where everyone goes for anniversaries and celebrations. My mind races.

“You know once we start that, there’s no keeping it quiet,” I say, glancing toward the big house. “Rumors spread like wildfire here. One dinner and the whole town will know.”

He squeezes my hand gently.

“We don’t need to keep it quiet for my sake.” He searches my face. “Think about it. Say yes.”

I hesitate and then nod slowly, not quite committing but not saying no either.

“I’ll think about it,” I whisper, sliding into the seat.

As I drive off, watching him shrink in the rearview mirror, I can’t stop the smile that forms.

Maybe it’s time to stop hiding.

“Did you have fun?” I ask Linc.

“So much fun. Did you?”

I nod. “Yes. I loved riding Lady.”

I smile over at him.

“Hey,” I start. “How would you feel if I . . . maybe . . . went on a date with Maverick?”

The last words rush out, and my cheeks go hot.

I feel Linc’s wide eyes on me.

“That would be awesome!” he says, laughing.

“Now, hold on. Don’t get too many ideas. It would just be a date, nothing too . . . serious.”

I glance at him, and he looks way too excited.

“Okay, nothing serious. But yes! Maverick is the best guy in town.”