“There’s my champ,” I say when she’s closer and wrap my arm around her. For a second, I think she’s going to pull away, but she doesn’t. Instead, she leans in, giving me an awkward side hug, then creating space. Just like the curious horses.

“I haven’t won yet,” she reminds me, just as the next sheep bursts out with a little girl on its back. She holds on tight and ends up staying on until the announcer tells her to let go. There’s a time limit to stay on just like in bull riding. She gracefully slides off, gets up, and dusts the dirt from her jeans, then gives a thumbs-up to the audience.

“Yes!” Maize hoots and hollers, then throws a fist pump in the air.

I chuckle.

“I love seeing girls break barriers like that.”

“Around the states, mutton bustin’ is gender-neutral. But she totally kicked ass.”

When she walks past us, Maize claps loud and compliments her. I love her enthusiasm. A few more kids ride, and we decide to sit in the stands. We’re so close the softness of her skin brushes against mine.

“If you’re this excited about mutton bustin’, you’re gonna have a hell of a time in an hour.”

She licks her lips. “I’m sure I will. Honestly, I’ve never watched the bull riders.”

I tilt my head. “Why not?”

“Wasn’t interested in the big egos.” She shoots me a wink.

I clap my hands together and laugh. “Some of the assholes who ride love being in the spotlight, but most of the people who hung out with my circle kept to themselves. It was more about winning than being a celebrity. Super competitive.”

She lightly elbows me. “I was just kidding. With my schedule, it just never interested me to take a day off and come out here. Plus, most of the girls my age flocked to the men who were in town just passing through. It’s not my vibe, if you know what I mean.”

I tuck hair that’s blowing in her face behind her ear. “I understand.”

“You were an exception,” she says. “The only exception.”

Placing my hand on my chest over my heart, I grin. “Means a lot. I’m honored. Shouldn’t I get a trophy or something, though?”

She snorts. “Sometimes you’re an ass.”

“I’m not trying to be. Scout’s honor.”

My phone buzzes, and I realize it’s the alarm I set to wake Cooper. He has an hour to get ready before he has to check in.

“Wanna walk with me to get Cooper?” I ask.