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Chapter 8: Performing for the Band
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2024-04-03 14:20:25Carson
A commotion in the far corner of the casino bar draws my attention away from Montana’s pretty face. A DJ sets up his gear, preparing to entertain the growing crowd. The overhead music pauses for a moment, then the DJ starts his first song. It’s no surprise it’s a country song. The decor of the entire place screams wood, cowboy, and country. Patrons around the bar begin moving to the music and singing along.
“The two of you should feel right at home,” Eli states.
“Not everyone in Iowa farms potatoes and loves country music,” Peyton snaps, clearly offended by his assumption.
“What’s the line in The Beach Boys’ song?” Eli presses his luck. “Midwest farmers’…”
“Finish that statement and I’ll demonstrate a city girl kicking your ass.” Peyton raises one perfectly shaped eyebrow in a challenge.
Montana bites her lip, trying not to laugh.
“I’m sorry,” Eli lies. “I didn’t mean to tease you.”
Eli loves to
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CarsonSliding back onto her barstool, Montana thanks us for ordering another round, noting glasses of water are now on our table.“What’s in the bags?” Peyton asks, eyes glued to the large bags at Eli’s feet.He dips his hands into one, handing red cowboy boots to Peyton. From the other bag, he passes brown boots with jade embellishments to Montana.“Why did you buy us boots?” Montana asks, her head tilted to one side, eyes like lasers on Eli.“I dare you to perform your state fair winning routine.” He smirks back at her. “You mentioned you can’t dance in sandals, so I found you boots.”Montana shakes her head. “You didn’t just find us boots. You bought us boots. And I can tell these are expensive, too.”“Don’t mind her,” Peyton says, patting Eli’s arm. “I absolutely love them.”“So, you’ll dance?” he asks, face lighting up with the possibility.“Um…” Montana hops back into the conversation. “New boots give blisters, especially without socks.”Clearly, she h
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