His wreck had damn near killed him. He wouldn’t survive another one. Hell, he was still supposed to be wearing a helmet, or so the Doc said.
His brain was solid, and his skull was…okay.
“Yeah.” Roper nodded, hearing his thoughts. “But you got a good thing going now. Seriously, has he spanked you yet?” Roper grinned wide, changing the subject as only he could.
“Shut up. He isn’t—he’s a new widower.” Ryder was pretty sure that Charles wasn’t into sex, and if he was, he was going for someone classy. “I’m thehelp, Bubba.”
“That’s not creepy.”
“It’s what it is. It’s okay. I like him.”
Roper gave him a bit of the hairy eyeball but let it go.
“Found the ice.” Charles came back in and set the bucket down on top of the mini-fridge. “The two of you really do look alike. I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t get you confused like that gentleman we met earlier though.”
“No? That would be a trick. Mackey’s the only one who doesn’t. Right, Ry?”
He nodded. “Even Momma can’t tell.”
“Oh, I don’t believe that for a second. But you can test me at some point and see how it goes.” Charles winked at him and sat. “So, Roper, I hear you’re having a good season.”
“That’s what they tell me. I’m solid to make the finals, and I’m healthy. At this point, that’s the secret. We’re getting closer to our finals event every day.”
“That’s great. When are finals?”
“October. I’m excited as all get out.” Roper glanced at him. “You’ll be there, right, Ry?”
“If you make it, I’ll be there, Bubba.” It was only right.
Charles nodded. “I’ll make sure of it, Roper. Not to worry. You just stay healthy, as you say, and he’ll be there.”
They both stared at Charles, and Ryder wanted to just howl at Roper and say, “See? A good man.”
“Thank you, sir,” they said, in unison.
“You’re welcome, boys.” Charles chuckled and got up off the couch. “You have an event to get to Roper, so don’t let us keep you. Ryder is going to walk me around a little. Maybe get a bite to eat.”
“Oh, the boozy milkshakes are amazing!”
He arched an eyebrow at Roper. “You’re eating milkshakes?”
“Stole a suck.” Roper winked at him.
“Hm. I could be convinced to try one of those.”
“That sounds amazing. Let’s do it.” Ryder hugged Roper again. “Good ride tonight.”
“I’ll show off, just for you.”
Charles was quiet but stepped in a little closer, a strong presence behind his shoulder. “I’d be happy to buy a round of drinks after if you’re interested. Just let Ryder know if you feel up to it.”
“Sounds perfect. I’ll see y’all in a few hours. Love you, Ry.”
“Love you more.”
Some things were eternal.
Charles held the door for Roper, then let it close quietly behind him, smiling slowly. “He’s very handsome.”