Chapter 51

He turned from his grooming to see Rio leaning on the stall door, grinning at him.

“Oh, uh…nothing,” Lex fumbled. Then to change the subject, he added, “Congratulations. That was a great ride today.” He patted the horse and walked toward the stall door.

“Thanks,” Rio said, opening the door for Lex and stepping aside to let him pass. “You did all right yourself.”

Rio reached out and tapped the silver All-Around Champion buckle Lex wore. He traced its shape with his hand, a finger brushing Lex’s abs.

Lex stopped and looked at Rio, startled at the gesture of familiarity from someone he barely knew.

“Um, yeah…I did okay,” he mumbled, looking into the cowboy’s face.

Rio smiled. “You got any plans for tonight?” he asked, his finger lingering at the crest of the buckle.