You spun, a little too fast, a little off-balance, your vision a blur of swinging braids and cowboy hats. The spin move came, and you threw your weight into it with more enthusiasm than precision.

His hands were still on your shoulders. You could feel the calluses through your shirt. The contact was electric, a sudden, shocking warmth that had nothing to do with the crowded room.

Cole’s gaze flickered to his friend, then back to you. He slowly, carefully, removed his hands, as if letting go of something hot. A faint pink tinged the tops of his cheekbones under his tan.

The song chose that moment to crash to its final, abrupt halt. The sudden silence was deafening, leaving the two of you standing in a pocket of quiet, surrounded by the chatter and movement of others heading for drinks. Jackie and George exchanged a single, loaded glance, their eyebrows raised in perfect, amused unison.

He shifted his weight, his boots scuffing the sawdust. The blue eyes held yours, hesitant but intent.

Jackie subtly nudged your foot with the toe of her boot. George just smiled, folding his arms and waiting.