My place of business.

I had to do something.

Say something.

“Has anyone ever told you that you have a Kacey vibe?” I blurted.

He didn’t answer, just blinked once very slowly, likely wondering if I was having a break from reality.

“From Yellowstone,” I added quickly.

Another blank look.

“The TV show,” I continued lamely. “It’s about cowboys.” I drummed my fingers on the counter, wishing I could hide beneath it. “Well, not just about cowboys. It shines a spotlight on the commercialization of family ranches, the theft of land from Native Americans, and yes, it’s got a sufficient amount of badass scenes and great romantic subplots. It’s the best show on television. Multifaceted.”

Oh my god, what are you talking about?

My ears flamed in embarrassment as I waved my hands manically. “Anyway, it’s great. You’ve got a Kacey vibe. He’s a former Marine.” Why I couldn’t just shut the fuck up and ask for his order was beyond me, but I was in too deep now.

His brows were furrowed a tad, and the corner of his mouth turned upward in what looked like amusement. I couldn’t tell for sure, though. I was spiraling now.

“A Kacey vibe mixed generously with a Rip aesthetic,” I continued to blather. “Rip is the best and most complex character on the show in my opinion. He has a tragic backstory and can be ruthless and violent, yet he’s gentle, kind and patient with Beth.”

Oh my god, I want to die.

I seriously considered cutting my losses, turning and running from the counter, going through the kitchen, through the back door, getting into my car, and driving out of town never to return.

But I couldn’t abandon my business, my home. And my car was almost out of gas.

So I stayed put, likely flaming red, definitely sweating and utterly mortified.

“Beth is a badass,” I explained for no other reason than I must’ve lost my damn mind. “She’s tougher than any man and ten times smarter. You think she’s got a cold heart, but it’s a ball of fire for those she loves.” I continued to thrum my fingertips on the counter, hearing my pulse thrashing in my ears as well as the sensible, mortified part of me screaming from somewhere deep down to shut the fuck up.

Though I could be considered to be somewhat dramatic, I was also shy. Timid even, Nathan had said. I was not known to babble about characters on my favorite TV show to complete strangers.

Yet, there I was.

For the life of me, I couldn’t figure out what else to do at that moment but stare at the man who I’d made my pretend boyfriend for months and who would likely never come here again because he’d been accosted by the insane owner.

I forced my lips shut, gripping on to the counter for dear life, waiting for him to say something. Maybe something polite, or hopefully he’d just ignore me altogether, place his order, giving me something to do other than stare at him like an idiot.