Chapter 6

He takes a break from his hoeing and walks across the street. He stands on the sidewalk: sweating, glowing in the heat and sunshine, beyond attractive. “You’re watching me, aren’t you?”

I say nothing to him. Silent. Dizzy. Baking in the heat. Summertime has me over its lap, and I’m being spanked by him.

“What do you see in me, Parker Rexx?”

It’s a legitimate question. The answer is a long story in the folds of my imagination that Glossner Books might publish.

“You’re a good-looking man. I’m not ashamed to admit this. I’m attracted to you.”

“And what do you want with me?” It’s the first time I don’t see him smile. So genuinely serious. Straight-faced. Somewhat arrogant, but in a sexy way.

I tell him I’ll stop watching him, even if it’s a lie. Honestly, I can’t help myself, obsessed with his cowboy looks, drawn to him. My crush. My toy for the summer. My game. I like him a little too much to stop my hobby. Someone help me. Anyone.

He asks for a beer. “I think you owe me one.”