Read The Bet (Blazing Hearts, #1) for Free Online Page B

historical society were up front, manning their booth, asking for volunteers. Lexie was there, smiling and assisting taking names. Her green gaze wavered when it came to him. Her cheeks flushed.
    He stepped forward, removed his hat and held it in his hands. Tension rose through his body with each step he took. He nodded his head to the other older women at the table. “Howdy.”
    The women shared a look and then turned their attention to Lexie. She squared her shoulders. “Are you here to volunteer? If not, the armadillo racing sign up table is over there.” She pointed to the right and then turned her head as if to dismiss him.
    Tyson huffed. “I’m here to speak to you.”
    She leveled her gaze on him. He’d never seen such fire behind those eyes before. “You should hurry to the sign up table. You might have time to squeeze a bet in.”
    The verbal punch to the solar plexus hit its mark. He drew in a sharp breath and nodded. “I deserve that and more. Yeah, I accepted a bet, but not for the reason you’re thinkin’.”
    “You wanted the horse and to get laid.”
    Tyson waited for the women from the historical society to appear shocked and horrified by Lexie’s words. The woman to her left, Mrs. Timeston, nodded and then tsked Tyson. “You young men thinking you can barter women. Shame on you. You tell him, Lexie.”
    Lexie offered a tight lipped smile. “Go away.”
    “No.”
    She blinked. “What?”
    He set his hat on the table. “Lexie Garnes,” he said as loud as he could, drawing attention from all around. “I’m not taking one step away from this table until you agree to be my wife.”
    The historical society ladies smirked, as if they’d suspected he’d say as much. He wasn’t sure how the old goats got so damn wise. He looked at Mrs. Timeston. “Tell her to marry me.”
    “Do you love her?” Mrs. Timeston asked.
    “No,” Lexie said.
    Tyson leaned in and put a hand over her mouth. “Yes, ma’am. I’ve been in love with her for years.”
    Lexie grabbed his wrist and pulled his hand off her mouth. “Tyson?”
    He stayed close to her. “I love you.”
    She teared up. “No you don’t.”
    “Dammit, woman. Stop bein’ so stubborn and admit you love me too.” He leaned all the way over the table and put his mouth to her ear. “If you don’t admit it, I’ll spank that sexy lil’ ass of yours for all to see right here and right now. And, I’ll hogtie you. See, I know you want tied up. You begged me. I’m not above doin’ here and now. Best you admit I love you and that you full well know it. Better admit to lovin’ me too or else.”
    Mrs. Timeston tossed her head back and laughed. “Oh sugar, you best tell that boy the truth.”
    Lexie was a deep shade of crimson as Tyson drew back from her. She shook as she stood. She looked around at the crowd they’d gathered and then bit at her lower lip. She nodded. “I love you, too.”
    With a hoot, Tyson rushed around the table and pulled her into his embrace. It suddenly sounded as if the entire town erupted into applause.
    THE END

About the Author
    S mall Town Romances with Big Time Spice!
    Kennedy Kovit loves real men. Men who are raw, sexy, say what they want and know how to please a woman. She loves crafting stories surrounding them and enjoys sharing her views on living in a small town. When not writing, Kennedy can be found enjoying the outdoors. You can read more about Kennedy and her upcoming releases by visiting www.kennedykovit.com