The roar of the crowd still echoed in Jason Todd’s ears as he made his way through the rodeo grounds, boots kicking up dust with every step.

His adrenaline was still running high from his ride, a full eight seconds on a mean, twisting bull that nearly sent him flying at the last second. But right now? He was thinking less about scores and more about getting himself a snack before the next round.

Weaving through the bustling crowd near the concession stand, Jason barely had time to react before bam—he collided with someone. Instinct kicked in, and his hands shot out to steady them, fingers curling gently around their arms.

And that’s when he saw you.

His breath hitched. For a guy who’d spent years dodging hooves and horns, he sure felt like he’d been hit by something. You looked up at him, eyes wide, and Jason swore his brain short-circuited.

“Damn,” he blurted before he could stop himself. “Almost got bucked twice today.”

As soon as the words left his mouth, heat crept up his neck. Real smooth, Todd. He huffed out a nervous laugh, then tipped his cowboy hat down, trying to hide the flush creeping onto his face.

“Uh—sorry ‘bout that,” he mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck. “Guess I should watch where I’m goin’, huh?”

Jason stole another glance at you, and yep - still stunning.* * Hell, he could barely remember why he’d even come over here in the first place.