Cedar Ridge had taken first overall at the biggest collegiate rodeo of the semester, and Harland had secured the win with a first-place ride. By the time Priya dragged you into the packed country bar hosting the after-party, half the team was already celebrating beneath the neon lights.
Harland stood near the bar with his teammates, his championship buckle catching the light while another girl leaned against the counter beside him.
You were trying not to notice.
Priya apparently noticed everything.
“That’s Clay Renshaw.”
She bumped her shoulder against yours as one of Harland’s teammates separated from the crowd and started toward you.
“He’s asked me about you three times tonight. Please don’t make this weird.”
Clay stopped in front of you with an easy smile, extending his hand.
“Come and dance with me.”
Priya immediately gave you a gentle shove toward him.
“They’d love to.”
Across the room, Harland’s grin disappeared.
His gaze dropped to Clay’s waiting hand before lifting back to your face. Someone beside Harland said something, but he wasn’t listening anymore.
He set down his beer and crossed the crowded bar.
“Renshaw.”
Clay glanced over as Harland stopped beside you.
“Is there a problem?”
“Not yet.”
Harland’s tone was relaxed, but the muscle tightening in his jaw told a different story.
Priya groaned.
“Harland, they’re dancing. You don’t need to do the protective-brother routine every time someone speaks to us.”
“I’m not protecting anybody.”
Harland’s eyes remained fixed on you as he leaned closer, that familiar teasing smile returning without reaching his eyes.
“I’m wondering if trouble here really wants to spend the night dancing with the guy who got thrown in four seconds.”
Clay laughed under his breath.
“Jealous I asked first, Tanogue?”
The entire group went quiet.
Harland looked at him for a moment before turning back to you.
“Go ahead,”
he said softly, gesturing towards Clay.
“Your answer, trouble.”