Page 13 of Carson

Of course it’s because of me.

“So, we’re going to Nevada. Whereabouts?”

“The northwestern part of the state. South of Reno. Our family and club are there.”

These must be the brothers Chance spoke to me about. He was sad to see them leave his club.

“Nice. I’m looking forward to exploring a new area. And don’t worry, I’ll pay you guys back before I leave.”

“We’re not going to take your money,” Cole says like it’s the most ludicrous statement he’s ever heard.

“Why would you pay for all those repairs? If you won’t take my money, I’ll find another way to pay you back.”

Carson turns his head sharply toward Cole before he can respond. Whatever passes between them, Cole stays quiet.

I sigh, settling back in the seat. Honestly, it’s kind of nice not having to drive.

“I’m sure we can work something out,” Carson says, reaching over to place his hand on my leg.

The minute he touches me, our eyes connect. He swallows hard, glancing between me and the road.

There’s something about his energy mixing with mine that feels good. I give him a shy smile and look away.

He slowly removes his hand, but not before giving my thigh a gentle squeeze.

A cascade of unfamiliar sensations rolls through me. I squeeze my legs together, overwhelmed by my body’s reaction to him.

Cole clears his throat behind us.

I jump from the seat to grab him a bottle of water. I toss it to him and then disappear back inside my closet.

My arms wrap around myself as I try to calm my racing heart.

No one has affected me the way Carson does.

It’s unusual … but also very nice.

Chapter Six

Carson

“What the hell, dude?”

Cole falls into the seat beside me. “I could say the same.”

I shake my head. “Why are you being such a dick to her? That’s not like you.”

“And it’s not like you to go after a girl without me reeling her in.”

“So you’re mad because I’m talking to her on my own?”

He looks away guiltily. “No. That part makes me happy.”

My stomach falls fast. “Is it because you want a shot at her?”

“No. She caught your eye first. It’s just …” His knee begins to bounce up and down, and I know he’s uncomfortable talking about this. “What’s the plan? Like do you plan on her staying at the cabin?”

My head falls against the seat, because now I understand his concern. He’s just keeping me in check. Our mom made us promise we wouldn’t invite a woman into our homes until we were in love.