Page 124 of Lost Trust

Royce

I spend the entire time waiting for Axle’s second ride, wondering where Marina went.

She was there one minute, and the next, she wasn’t.

And every time I glance toward the dance floor, the bar, the tables, she’s nowhere in sight.

Someone taps my shoulder, and I turn to find Cabe beside me.

“Hey, bro. I’m heading out with a friend.”

I look toward the woman waiting near the door, then back at him.

“Everything good?” I ask.

“Yeah.” He nods. “Just wanted to let you know I got a ride.” He leans closer. “And to let you know Marina’s out on the patio.”

My pulse kicks.

He gives me a look like he knows exactly what I’m thinking before he disappears into the crowd.

I force myself to stay put.

Axle’s ride is next. I tell myself I can find Marina after.

The lights dim slightly as the camera cuts to the chute. Axle is already aboard. The announcer’s voice booms through the speakers. The gate flies open.

Axle hangs on.

Eight seconds.

Then, somehow, everything goes sideways. He’s suddenly over the bull’s head, and he lands on one of its horns. The bull jerks its head, launching him through the air and straight into the bullfighter.

The guy catches him, spins with the momentum, and sets Axle right back on his feet.

For one frozen second, the entire bar holds its breath.

Then Axle grins, tosses his hat in the air, and starts pumping his fist as he stomps around the arena.

The place goes absolutely fucking insane.

I laugh. “Holy shit.”

Micah throws a hand up, and I smack his palm.

Jovie is laughing beside us, and I squeeze her shoulders.

“That was like watching a fucking ballet,” I whisper in her ear.

The score flashes across the screen.

He clinched it.

I barely give the celebration another second before I’m moving. I’ve seen him handed enough gold buckles in person. I need to find Marina.

I push through the crowd, shove open the patio door, and step outside.

She’s standing near the railing with her back to me.