“And you too, Uncle Jackson,” I say, handing back the microphone. As another judge speaks and entertains the audience, I’m brought to the back to sign some paperwork. They tell me a real check will be in the mail, and I guess I didn’t realize the oversized one was just a novelty item. After I thank them nearly a million times, I return to my family, who are all waiting for me with smiles.

I’m surrounded by Bishops, and all I can do is cry because I’m so damn happy. A few older guys who have been competing in competitions like this all over the state come over and congratulate me.

After the onlookers disperse, I realize how much my cheeks hurt from smiling.

Gavin walks up and wraps his arms around me, nearly swallowing me whole. “Congrats. I knew you’d win.”

“Thank you!” I exclaim as we linger for a few seconds, but he looks around and backs away, creating space between us.

“Congrats, baby,” Grandma tells me, then looks back and forth between Gavin and me with a lifted brow but doesn’t say a word. “Knew you had it in you.”

After I’ve spoken to every single family member, we return to our cooking area and finish packing up the supplies. Once everything is loaded, Gavin walks me to my truck. Before I unlock the door, he looks around, then dips his head and gives me a soft kiss, and I get lost in it.

I pull away breathless, and I meet his eyes, mesmerized by him like he put a spell on me.

“Hopefully, we can do this again sometime,” he suggests.

“Maybe,” I say, liking I can keep him on his toes.

He chuckles and shakes his head. “It’s all about the chase with you, woman.”

“And it’s a marathon, not a sprint.” I climb inside the truck and give him a wave, which he returns. I back out and drive home, feeling the happiest I have in years. I think about the contest, my family, watching the bull riders, and being with Gavin. I’ve had a perfect weekend.

Right now, I don’t know what we are or where this is going, but the chemistry we share is undeniable. The way he makes me feel is incredible. But is he in this for the long term?

Deep down, I want to give him a chance, but I also have to protect myself and my heart.

Chapter Twelve

MAIZE