Page 92 of Savage Heart

“They can handle it without you,” Vera says.

Otis says pretty much the same thing as Vera, and I tell him I won’t be out late. Maybe I can catch some of the show.

“Have fun. We got this covered over here,” he says.

Russell shoos us out.

Kell and Vera gush over my car the whole way to Hog Heaven.

The smell of barbecue permeates the parking lot. The food at Hog Heaven is delicious—sticky ribs, brisket that falls apart, and the best pulled-pork sandwich—but it’s the desserts that get you. Bread pudding so good it should be illegal. Cream cheese bars that are divine. Rows and rows of pies, always tempting me to try more than one.

We’re halfway through ordering when the door opens.

I feel him before I see him. That subtle pull.

Maverick walks in, hat low, his broad shoulders back. He oozes seduction without even trying. He passes our table and pauses just long enough to tip his hat.

“Ladies,” he says, his low voice sending a ripple through me.

Kell actually sighs. Vera grips my arm like she might faint.

“Oh my God,” Kell whispers. “What is up with him?”

“He’s come into Prairie Rose twice,” Vera whispers, staring at me like I need to spill.

I don’t say a word.

Maverick doesn’t sit right away. He leans against the bar instead, his eyes on me. They stay there. Too long.

What is he doing?

My pulse stutters.

I stand abruptly. “I’ll get us some drinks.”

I cross the room before I can talk myself out of it and stop in front of him.

“What are you doing?” I ask quietly. “Are you following me now?”

His mouth quirks. “I thought I saw your car here.”

I frown. “How did you know that was my car?”

He hesitates and rubs the back of his neck. “Linc told me about it.”

I study him for a second longer, then step back. “Right. Well, quit staring at me.”

“Impossible.” He grins.

I catch the bartender’s eye, and he comes over. “Two rum and Cokes, and one club soda with lime, please.”

He nods and starts working on them.

“When do you think you might come ride Lady?” Maverick asks, leaning in so close that I can feel his breath.

“Uh, I don’t know.”

“You working tomorrow?”