My Cowboy Prince (*unedited)

Chapter 5

Luke had asked me to join him for breakfast out at the back, and now we are sitting on a picnic bench under a large oak tree. The morning sun filtering through the leaves, cast dappled shadows on the ground that adds a tranquil charm to our surroundings. It's not too hot here as there is a constant gentle wave of breeze that sweeps by. The warm and rich aroma of our breakfast mingles with the fresh, earthy scent of the great outdoors. It's an intriguing scent.

"So," Luke begins. He takes a gingerly sip from his mug then looks at me. "Tell me about you? Where are ya from? Any close relatives? What do ya do in the city? You can tell me anything..."

I pause for a moment, mid-scoop of putting eggs and bacon onto my buttered bread. My city life is quite mediocre and unlike like the vibrant, picturesque scenes around me now. I place the bread down for a bit as I try to collect my thoughts, I want to share something meaningful. "Well, I live in Manhattan and work there as a Marketing Manager. Uh, I am Jamaican American..."

Luke's eyes light up with interest at that. "So that's where that bit of accent came from. That's so cool."

I smile. "Yeah, my mom is Jamaican. She moved to the States before I was born, but we still have a lot of family back there. I try to visit whenever I can. It's always a good time with family, food, music and just the overall vibe. It's really different from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan."

Luke nods, leaning forward slightly as he listens. "I bet, Jamaica seems chill and Manhattan sounds intense. What's it like living or being in both places?"

"Well for Manhattan it's fast-paced," I say already picturing the crowded streets and towering skyscrapers... and the unbearable noise of late or early traffic. "There's always something happening at every corner which can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. The noise, the crowds... sometimes it's just a lot to take in you know. That's why being out here feels so refreshing. It's a breath of fresh air much like back in JA."

"I can imagine," There is a thoughtful look in his eyes. "I've never been to a big city like that or even thought of ever leaving the country. I guess I'm more of a country boy at heart."

"The country does has its charm," I admit, glancing around at the serene landscape. "I can see why you love it here."

Luke smiles. It's a slow, genuine smile that reaches his eyes. "It's a good life. Simple, but good. And it's nice having you here to share it with, even if it's just for a little while."

I feel a warm blush creeping up my cheeks at his words, the sincerity in his tone makes my heart flutter. "Of course... So now tell me about you Cowboy. What about your other relatives? Are a cowboy at day and possibly a vigilant at night? How do afford to help keep this place running?"

He laughs. It's a deep, rich sound that seems to vibrate through the air. "Grandma Bea is the only family I have as far as I'm concerned. My father is out of the picture, he's been for some years now. As for your vigilante question, City Girl, I help Joe at his garage occasionally if he needs a hand or I might run some errands for folks around town."

I nod thoughtfully. He seems to hold some resentment to his father and he haven't spoken of a mother. Is she around? Did she die? The questions bug my mind but I push them away. I'll ask at another time. "What about this place? Business doesn't seem to be booming at the moment."

I glance around at the sprawling property, its potential is very evident despite the quietness that lingers in the air. This gigantic place only has five tourists that are occupying the rooms. At breakfast, I saw and met two more people I had not seen before. It's a damn shame that this place is not doing well; it's so nice here.