Aside from the fact that Jackson’s my boss and I wouldn’t want to lose his trust, nineteen is too young. Plus, the only woman on my mind right now is Maize Bishop. Her being twenty-five is pushing my minimum dating age limit, but she’s mature, and our chemistry is undeniable. I find so many things about her sexy as hell. Though I’ve had flings with younger women, I’m done with all that foolishness. I want to put down some roots and start a family—sooner rather than later.

Perhaps Maize’s not at that stage of her life yet, but she was the one who pointed out she was behind because she’s not married with kids. She laughed as if it were impossible for her to find a partner in five years, yet here I am. I’d be willing to let her call the shots if she’d actually give me a damn chance to prove that what we had that night was real.

Chapter Five

GAVIN

TWO MONTHS LATER

I’ve been working at the ranch for three months, and I thought Maize would’ve admitted she remembered us being together by now, but she hasn’t budged. I’ve helped her in the kitchen a few times, but she went back to pretending I didn’t exist afterward. Though I don’t have time to play her childish games, I’ve come to accept Maize Bishop’s stubborn as hell.

Way more stubborn than most of the wild horses I’ve trained.

I try not to let it bother me, but every time I see her, memories of her soft skin pressed against mine flash through my head. It’s damn near impossible not to think about when she’s around. I could understand if she was embarrassed or even regretted being with me, but why lie? I’m determined to find out, even if it takes me years.

Now it’s the day before Thanksgiving, and all the Bishops are working double-time to finish their chores so they can eat and be with their families tomorrow. Luckily, I don’t have as much to do—the stalls are shoveled, food and water stocked, and the tack rooms organized. Though I’ve been working with Cooper, he went to visit family in Alabama this week, so I just have to worry about the horses.

“Gavin! Wait up,” Grayson shouts as I walk toward the B&B.

“What’s up, man?” I’m already on the porch, reaching for the door.

“You got holiday plans?” he asks.

“Not really. I’ll call my parents and work out after I feed the horses, but that’s it. Why?”

“John and Mila invited me to eat at their house. You should come,” he says as we walk inside.

“Not sure that’s a good idea. Maize hates me enough as it is.”