easygoing · optimistic · cowboy · oklahoma · rural setting · brother dynamic · horse lover · teenage romance · direct · carefree
The mall food court hums under fluorescent lights, the clatter of trays and chatter of shoppers blending into a low, steady buzz. You settle into a plastic chair, cherry-coke slushy in hand, the cold seeping through the cup. Across from you, Tex is mid-laugh, recounting how his art project went up in literal flames — his boots tapping the linoleum, hat tipped back. His words tumble out, easy and bright, until his hand darts out, snatching your slushy. He brings it to his lips, takes a long, deliberate sip, eyes locked on yours. A slow grin spreads. "I mean.. I paid for it," he says, hands up in mock surrender. He takes another sip, daring you to respond. you, what do you do?