Rodeo Beta: M|M Cowboy Shifter Romance: Whisky & Scars Series, #2

By Jean. K. Hart

Charlie Cox was no ordinary Beta... 
He lived for the thrill of competition, the raw power of raging bulls, and the burn of whisky down his throat. With his massive frame and alpha-like presence, he attracted countless buckle bunnies, but nothing excited him more than seducing Omegas with his rodeo cowboy charm.
For Charlie, there was nothing like the rush of the rodeo. 
The dirt, the rain, the heart-stopping power of a bucking bull – it was a challenge he craved with every fiber of his being. He was determined to be the best, to ride higher and harder than anyone before him.
That was until he met his match.
Liam Bell was a former rodeo champion, a snarky Omega with scars and a reputation for taking on any Alpha. And had a tongue so fierce it was like being lashed with a whip. Charlie's heart was gone the moment he laid eyes on him.
But things were not always what they seemed. Liam had a dark past left by a cruel Alpha, a gaping wound that refused to heal. Things were going fine until that Alpha showed up.
Was Charlie willing to risk it all for the Omega who had stolen his heart with a wicked smile and a warm embrace? Or would Charlie summon all his strength to get his Omega back, even if it meant going up against a feral Alpha?

 

Warning: this is a standalone M/M cowboy shifter romance, M/M enemies-to-lovers romance, and M/M hurt and comfort romance that deals with mature themes like alcohol and former abuse but guaranteed HEA. Please be advised. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jean. K. Hart
• Release date: Oct 14, 2023
• ISBN: 9781998809264

Jean. K. Hart

Jean K. Hart is a romance author who writes steamy cowboy romances set against the backdrop of the American West. Born and raised in the heart of Toronto, Jean has always been captivated by the rugged charm and unbreakable spirit of the cowboys who shaped the frontier.

Book preview

Rodeo Beta

M/M Cowboy Shifter Romance

Jean. K. Hart

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Copyright © October 14th, 2023 Jean. K. Hart All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

Cover design by: Jean. K. Hart

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Disclaimer

The information and opinions expressed in this book are solely those of Jean K. Hart, the author, and do not represent the views of the publisher. The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Jean K. Hart and the publisher disclaim any liability for errors, inaccuracies, or omissions, and assume no responsibility for any consequences arising from the use of information contained within this book. Readers are advised to consult with appropriate professionals regarding their specific situations. The inclusion of any links or references does not imply endorsement or guarantee the accuracy of the linked information.

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Trigger Warnings

Mentions of sexual assault, physical and emotional abuse

Death or Grief: Content involving the death of a loved one or grief-related themes.

Sexual Content: Explicit sexual content, scenes, or discussions.

Sexual Harassment or Abuse: Scenes or discussions involving sexual harassment or abuse.

Explicit Language: The inclusion of strong or explicit language throughout the book.

Slow burn romance

Contents

1.The Champion

2.The Clown

3.Rodeo Rivalry

4.A Brush with Death

5.Unexpected Allies

6.The Alpha Champion

7.A Deal with the Devil

8.Chasing the Bull

9.A Night Under the Stars

10.The Heat of the Moment

11.Running Wild

12.Unbridled Passion

13.The Call of the Pack

14.The Hunter Becomes the Hunted

15.A Dangerous Game

16.In the Eye of the Storm

17.Heartbreak Ridge

18.A Second Chance

19.Facing the Past

Other Works

About the Author

1

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The Champion

Liam Bell's heart thundered in his ears as he sat across the opulent dining table from Murdoch Gill. Their house, which used to be a symbol of grandeur, seemed to close in around him, suffocating him in its oppressive embrace. The clattering of silverware against porcelain echoed through the room, each scrape of the fork and knife intensifying Liam's anxiety.

I need to go. Now. Liam swallowed, trying to act normal as he ate, but the food was turning into ashes in his mouth. He couldn't ignore the throbbing pain of the rope marks on his neck, a constant reminder of the torment he had endured under Murdoch's cruel reign. Dried blood caked his nails, evidence of his desperate fight for freedom. The memory of greedy hands holding him down made his stomach coil and bile surged hot and thick in his throat, making it impossible to eat, but Liam would be damned if he ruined tonight.

I’ll get away, even if it costs my life. Every moment in Murdoch's presence was a living nightmare, a twisted dance between survival and submission.

Liam's gaze darted to Murdoch's smooth face, searching for any flicker of empathy, but finding none. The alpha's eyes, cold and calculating, bore into his soul, seeking any signs of defiance. The fear coiled within Liam, threatening to consume him. Murdoch had no soul. No feelings.

Liam never knew a man who could be so ruthless. Then again, his father, Elias Bell, was no different. Perhaps he just went from one hell hole to the next. A few weeks ago, he had received a letter from the neighbors and a select group of close friends in town, informing him that his father's condition had deteriorated, leaving them with no alternative but to get his permission to admit him to an asylum. Liam knew that he had to leave before his father was put away for good.

Murdoch would never agree to take care of him, and Elias was the only person in his family he had left. When they first married, Liam had been in his prime, signed by Spur & Saddle Co., which was the largest rodeo firm in the business. He’d got his big break and was slowly making a name for himself as the first omega that could take on a bull. He had shattered all the records, even going as far as to have the Omega Loyalty Act rewritten, just so people could see him ride in public. Omegas weren’t allowed to walk around without chaperones, and they couldn’t compete without express consent from their alphas, but Murdoch had a nose for talent and after they married he brought the issue to Congress.

Murdoch became the pioneering alpha to grant his consent, marking a historic moment where an omega was finally allowed to compete in national sports. Soon, numerous others followed suit, compelling Congress to overhaul the laws that had long prohibited omegas from participating in these competitions.

But pride led to a fateful stumble, causing the champion to crumble. A day never went by when Murdoch didn’t remind him how worthless he was. It wasn’t always like this. Liam liked to think there were good times between them, but over the years they became few and far between. Murdoch was now nothing but a soulless, money-grubbing monster.

Murdoch devoured his meal with a brazen disregard for decorum, and Liam's unease deepened. The sounds of cutlery scraping across the china pierced the silence like a haunting melody, raising the hair on Liam's neck. He couldn't bear another second in this torture, couldn't endure another minute under Murdoch's sadistic gaze. A lock of hair slipped from the confines of its gel and rested on Murdoch’s forehead, and then his green eyes snapped to Liam’s.

What did you do all day? Murdoch's voice sliced through the air, crisp and biting. Liam felt a surge of panic rise within him, his throat constricting with the weight of unspoken words.

Nothing much, went to the arena to practice and hung out with Solomon. That’s all really. He must tread carefully, navigate the treacherous waters of deceit, or risk further torment at Murdoch's hands.

Solomon? Murdoch snorted. Why do you entertain that slut, anyway? He’s fucked half the block. You could throw a rock and everyone within five miles would have fucked his omega boy cunt.

Liam swallowed around the knot in his throat. It was an old argument. One he didn’t feel like relieving. Regardless of what Solomon was, he was still Liam’s best friend and confidant.

Stay away from him from now on, Murdoch ordered, his tone absolute. We signed him because we thought he’d be the next best thing. Who knew he wouldn’t even compare to you?

Liam’s hands trembled. He could barely breathe around the alpha command. It was an order and if he dared to refuse, he knew what would happen. The Victorian house felt frozen in time, surrounding them with its faded elegance. The once vibrant wallpaper, now dulled by years of neglect, hung like a specter on the walls. Heavy curtains, like guardians of secrets, shielded them from prying eyes, while the dim glow of chandeliers added an eerie mystique to the room's opulent furnishings. Liam hated this place. Just as much as he hated Murdoch.

Liam couldn’t remember why he chose to marry him. Perhaps it was his tailored suit, dark and foreboding, that accentuated his dominance. Back then, he had been young and stupid, only eighteen and trying to get away from his hometown in Silverclaw Falls, not realizing the dangers that lurked out there. His mother, Tabitha had passed away, and Liam couldn’t stand his father’s unrelenting fury, which got worse and worse over the years. Eventually, the surly alpha was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and since then, Liam hasn’t heard much about him. He hasn’t been home in years.

Not since he got married. That was all thanks to the Omega Restraint Act. According to the laws, omegas are legally restricted from traveling or relocating without the consent of their alpha. It requires omegas to obtain a special travel permit from their alpha or a designated authority to leave their current residence or the jurisdiction controlled by their alpha. It was sickening. Back in his hometown of Silverclaw Falls, things were much less restrictive for omegas.

Liam longed to go back there.

Back home.

Liam, you haven’t responded yet.

Liam's pulse quickened, his breaths shallow, as he caught the glint of malice in Murdoch's eyes, a warning of the dangers that lay in wait. Yes, Alpha.

Fear clung to Liam like a second skin, driving him to the precipice of desperation. Tension coiled in the air; he knew he couldn't wait any longer. The time for escape had come.

The competition is coming up… or have you forgotten about it already?

Fuck you and the competition. No, Alpha.

Good, because you know how important it is to me. This time I want to do something different. Something bold. Daring… His eyes held a sadistic gleam. I want you to train with Betsy.

Liam's blood ran cold as Murdoch's calm voice carried with it a subtle edge that made Liam's nerves jangle. Betsy was the meanest bull in the courtyard, known for killing several riders. Although Liam was skilled in the rodeo, he only took on bulls he knew he could control. Betsy was a wildcard and if he died, then Murdoch wouldn’t care. His instincts screamed at him to tread carefully, to answer without revealing the storm brewing within.

Yes, Alpha.

And you’ll tell me if anyone gives you shit about it, Murdoch began, his voice dripping with deceptive politeness. I don’t think you need to worry too much about theatrics or marketing. Leave it to me. An omega taking on a prize bull is more than enough to make headlines. You’ve got a good gimmick already, plus, most alphas would travel for miles just to see it.

Liam's mouth felt dry, and his heart skipped a beat. And if I died? What then? He wanted to ask, but wouldn’t dare. Yes, Alpha. It would certainly be a show.

Murdoch's gaze lingered on Liam, his eyes searching for any cracks in the façade. And how are you feeling? Any health concerns? You seem tense.

Liam's skin crawled under the weight of Murdoch's scrutiny. The questions, seemingly innocent, carried an undercurrent of menace. He forced a tight smile, trying to steady his trembling voice. I'm fine, Alpha. Just a bit tired, that's all.

Murdoch leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing. Good, good. It would be a shame if anything were to impede your efficiency, wouldn't it?

Liam's heart hammered in his chest, and he fought to keep his composure. He knew all too well what Murdoch was capable of, the extent of his cruelty. The alpha's subtle threats pricked at Liam's senses, like thorns digging into his flesh.

Yes, Alpha, Liam replied, his voice laced with feigned confidence. I understand the importance of my responsibilities and I will ensure they are carried out without fail.

Murdoch's lips curled into a chilling smile, revealing a glimmer of satisfaction. See that you do, Liam. We wouldn't want any complications, would we? Or else, I might be forced to have my friends intervene…

Liam's hands were clenched beneath the table, his nails digging into his palms. The unspoken threat hung in the air, a constant reminder of the danger that lurked just beneath the surface. He could almost taste the bitterness of his fear as it mingled with the tantalizing scent of the meal. Liam Bell was a champion. He had never lost a competition. Even with his body now battered and bruised, the rope marks burned into his skin, he could still ride better than any alpha.

Damn them all to hell, he thought.

Of course, Liam replied. I am feeling tired. I’ll head to bed now. Liam stood, hoping to leave to find solace in the refuge for a few hours in his own room before Murdoch came to join him.

Wait. Murdoch's voice was like a chilling wind, freezing Liam in his tracks. Did you forget your place? In this household, you must ask permission before you leave my presence.

A wave of panic washed over Liam, his body trembling. Shit. Shit. Did I tip him off? Does he know? The room seemed to close in around him, suffocating him with its oppressive presence. He knew the consequences of defiance, the price paid for any slight against Murdoch's dominance. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for what he had to do. With a heavy swallow, he bowed his head in a submissive gesture, his neck bared in a display of obedience he despised.

Alpha, Liam's voice quivered, the words a reluctant surrender. May I be excused?

Murdoch's gaze lingered on Liam, studying him with predatory intensity. The silence stretched, suffocating, as Liam fought to keep his composure.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Murdoch spoke. Yes, you may go.

Relief flooded through Liam's veins, mingling with the residue of fear that still clung to his every pore. With a final nod of deference, he turned on his heels and fled the dining room, his steps quickening to escape the suffocating presence of his alpha. Reaching the solitude of the bathroom, Liam collapsed against the cold tiles, his body convulsing with suppressed emotions.

God, I’m so pathetic! The bitter taste of bile rose in his throat, threatening to spill forth as his stomach churned. He stared at his reflection in the mirror, his eyes sunken, haunted by the weight of his captivity. His once vibrant russet skin now appeared washed out, devoid of life. Dark circles marred his eyes, remnants of sleepless nights spent fearing for his life. His reflection seemed foreign, a hollow shell of the man he used to be, stripped of his spirit and reduced to mere survival.

How did this happen to me? Liam wanted to scream, but it was too late now. He was neck-deep in muddy waters, trying to wade through the filth. This was his life now. Tonight, he had to leave, to sever the chains that bound him to this house of torment. The thought of remaining another day threatened to consume him, to extinguish any flicker of hope that remained.

Liam wiped away the beads of sweat that had formed on his brow. He straightened his shoulders, his reflection now bearing the resolve of a desperate man ready to fight for his life.

The thrill of escape electrified the air, propelling Liam forward into the unknown. Time was of the essence, and with each passing second, the threat of death loomed larger. Tonight, Liam would make his stand, reclaim his freedom, or risk being swallowed whole by the pit of despair.

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That night, Liam lay in the bed beside Murdoch, his body tense and his breathing shallow, as he waited for the telltale signs of the alpha’s slumber. Every passing minute felt like an eternity, the weight of his impending escape bearing down on him. Finally, when the room was cloaked in darkness and the sounds of Murdoch's deep, rhythmic breaths filled the air, Liam knew the time had come.

Everything was all set. The divorce proceedings were in the works. Liam had hired a private investigator to look into Murdoch and eventually, he’d uncovered secrets, and hidden motives behind Murdoch's actions. One look into Murdoch’s bookkeeping revealed the truth, and Liam didn’t waste any time notifying the sheriff for a possible indictment. The divorce papers were signed and ready to go. He’d mail them to his solicitor once he reached Silverclaw Falls. Now he could finally leave. He'd planned everything out with Solomon, all he needed to do was wait for the right time.

Liam slipped out of bed, his movements slow and deliberate to avoid any creaking floorboards that might betray his escape. His heart raced in his chest, matching the urgency of his thoughts. He couldn't afford any missteps. This was it. Due to the Omega Restraint Act, he’d have to move quickly. If the authorities caught up with him and he didn’t have a special travel permit from his alpha, it could lead to legal repercussions or worse, notifying his alpha.

I just need to get to Silverclaw Falls. Things weren’t so strict there.

In the dim moonlight that filtered through the curtains, Liam gathered his belongings, stuffing them into a worn leather bag. He knew he had to move, as the rotation of the servants meant that any delay could expose his absence and alert Murdoch to his flight. Ever since he’d moved in, they had kept a close tab on his whereabouts, informing Murdoch about every single detail of his life. At first, he didn’t mind it, but as their relationship went on Liam realized it had nothing to do with keeping him safe, but so that Murdoch could carry out his own indiscretions.

Every rustle of fabric, every clink of metal, sent a jolt of fear through Liam's veins. Time was slipping away, urging him forward. He tiptoed to the bedroom door, his senses heightened to detect any sound that might indicate he had been discovered. But just as he reached for the doorknob, a muffled noise drifted in the air, freezing Liam in his tracks. His heart leapt into his throat, threatening to choke him with its pounding rhythm. Was Murdoch stirring from his slumber? Fuck!

Liam bolted towards the back door, abandoning caution in favor of a desperate escape. The noise grew louder, a foreboding reminder of the dangers that lurked behind him. He couldn't afford to be caught, to fall back into the clutches of his tormentor. The cool night air greeted him, offering a fleeting moment of respite as he sprinted towards the dimly lit streets.

And there, Solomon was mounted on a horse in the shadows like a guardian angel, with another horse saddled and ready beside him. Liam could have wept with joy. Their eyes met, the unspoken understanding passing between them. There was no time for pleasantries, only the urgent need to escape the jaws of this wretched existence. The lights in the house were slowly coming on and it jerked him into action.

Liam leaped onto the waiting horse, the muscles in his body coiling with anticipation.

Hold on! Solomon urged their steeds into a furious gallop, their hooves pounding against the ground, echoing the rhythm of freedom. The night air whipped against their faces, carrying with it a sense of liberation as they raced towards the salvation of the train station.

Behind them, the world they left behind faded into darkness, swallowed by the vast expanse of uncertainty that