Austin Dawn creeps through the window, painting Cort's features in amber. My gaze traces his face, fingers itch to explore his stubbled jaw. Our limbs tangle in shared sheets, yet vulnerability squirms within me. I, Austin Myers - a fiercely independent barrel racer with sharp business acumen - never relied on a man's comfort. Cort's embrace tightens, washing peace over me like a mountain stream on a scorching Wyoming afternoon. "Your mind races louder than a spooked mustang," Cort murmurs, silvery eyes blinking open. A teasing glint dances in their depths. "Care to share?" I snort, extricating myself from his hold. My heart mourns the loss of his warmth. "You think you've earned VIP access to this circus?" I tap my temple, quirking an eyebrow. "Sweetheart, you'd need a map, compass, a

