That’s hilarious coming from the disturbance himself. “I’d like to get down.”
“Why?” He smirks. “You look good up there.”
“This isn’t my idea of a safe space.”
His sturdy grip is around my waist in the next second. Before I can question him, a seamless motion sweeps me off the seat. My boots land in the dirt while my chest presses entirely too close to his. I scurry back two steps before instinct gets the better of me.
“Uh, thanks.”
Byron gives me another scorching look. “Did you enjoy the ride?”
My jaw drops. “We don’t need to discuss it in detail. You were there.”
“On Greta,” he amends.
“Oh.” If my face burns any hotter, I’ll have to bury myself in the snow. “Yes, she’s a very good girl.”
“You two make a great team,” he rumbles.
“Very funny. Are we done?”
“Somewhere else you need to be?”
My mind goes blank. I need at least an hour to decompress after this mental marathon. But admitting that is a weakness.
“Do I have to ask for permission?” I counter hotly.
He sighs, tugging at his hat almost in agitation. “I was thinking about taking Ronnie to visit Uncle Dennis. Want to join us?”
“Only if forced,” I mutter.
Byron flinches. “Not planning to do more of that.”
My nod appreciates that he’s admitting fault in his actions, but the follow-through remains to be seen. “I think I’ll spend the rest of the day testing the limits of this newfound freedom.”
Dennis hoots and hollers along with the rowdy celebration from the latest bingo winner. Luck hasn’t been on his side tonight, but that doesn’t stop him from joining in the ruckus. It’s about community and moral support for him.
“Break time,” he tells us. “We can stretch our legs.”
“I’m busy.” Ronnie’s tongue is poking out as she covers her sheet in dots.
My grin approves of her rapid-fire method. “Looks like a winner.”
“It’s not, but that’s okay. I’m gonna get all the numbers next time.”
“That’s the spirit!” Dennis shouts above the dull roar that’s spreading through The Paddock like a victory lap.
This is the place to be in Cloverleaf Meadows for most notable social outings. Bingo is just one of many on their weekly event calendar. Not only is there a mega-jackpot coverall round, but they also provide a separate game for kids with a wide variety of prizes. The whole family can join in the fun and my little girl is taking advantage.
“B-I-N-G-O,” she sings. “And soon they’ll call my name-o!”
Dennis applauds her optimism. “Speaking of planning for the future, how are you ringing in the new year?”
“Same as usual,” I drawl. Unless there’s a kid-friendly event nearby that celebrates before bedtime, we’re tucked safely at home for the occasion.
He scoffs. “That’s not true. You’ve got a new member in your household. She’s gotta account for a few changes ‘round there.”
My gut clenches at the mention of Frankie. Our situation is more complicated than she’s willing to admit. If she thinks I’ll be satisfied with a one-and-done, she’s going to get another spanking. There’s a noticeable twitch in my dick and I inhale a calming breath.