For such a festive evening, a dark cloud had somehow settled over Amanda’s mood. Was this what it felt like to have the most basic of crushes on someone? She hadn’t looked at a guy romantically—or sexually—since she’d started working for Dru. She couldn’t stress enough how her night with Sam had been a colossal fluke, but there she was trying her hardest just to enjoy the lovely bonfire the ranch staff had planned for Helene and Ignacio’s guests.

She couldn’t though. Her stomach wouldn’t stop fluttering every time Sam caught her eye. This insistent heat that had crept up her neck when he’d whispered in her ear all those hours ago had spread, bringing a tingle with it. Over her cheeks, the crown of her head, and down between her legs. Amanda couldn’t stand it.

She’d gotten a few moments with the bride and groom after dinner and before they headed over to the dance hall for a little square dancing. She spent the rest of the evening keeping mostly to herself or making quick but polite small talk with their friends and family. She’d gotten trapped momentarily by an uncle, the key demo typically attracted to her full curves, but she was able to spin away as soon as she saw Helene’s sister heading toward the restrooms.

Sam had been there the whole time, keeping a careful distance, but she watched him work the room, charming everyone in sight, stepping off to the side to check in and share a quick laugh with the ranch employees.

She wondered what it was like to be so out there all the time. She was an absolute pro at making herself invisible. Since she’d arrived that afternoon, she’d successfully avoided no fewer than five professional photo opportunities. Sam wasn’t the guest of honor, but there was no way Amanda could miss the way everyone in the room gravitated toward him. Adoring gazes followed him everywhere he went. It wasn’t shocking. He was so damn fine and he looked poured into the suit he was wearing, and somehow the wool-lined jacket he popped up in during the bonfire made him look even sexier. It was a lot to take in, and as the night went on Amanda came to a decision.