MORE FROM SERENADE PUBLISHING
BrigadierStationSeries
BySarahWilliams:
TheBrothersofBrigadierStation
TheSkyoverBrigadierStation
TheLegaciesofBrigadierStation
ChristmasatBrigadierStation(AnOutbackChristmasNovella)
TheOutbackGoverness(ASweetOutbackNovella)
Heartofthe HinterlandSeries
BySarahWilliams:
TheDairyFarmer’sDaughter
TheirPerfectBlend
BeyondtheBarre
ByVirginiaTaylor
ForeverDelighted ForeverAmused ForeverHeartfelt
ANewPage byAimeeMacRae
ItHappenedinParis
ByMichelleBeesley
MiddleWomen
ByJackGarrety
MimandWiggy’sGrandAdventure
ByJayMcKenzie
ADyingSecondSun byPeterA Dowse
WinnerWinnerChickenDinner bySarahJackson
Resurrection MHAustin
For more information visit: www.serenadepublishing.com
Everstaredintothestoicfaceofherfather.Theywereatanimpasse,neitherwillingtobudge.Hottearsstunghereyes asshetriedtokeepheremotionsandmountingangerincheck Why was he being so unreasonable, so unyielding, so unsupportive? shethoughtseeinghismouthhardeninastraightline
“No, Ever. I will not support you moving that far away.” Hardin Wolton repeated as he glared into the face of his disbelievingdaughter.
“ThisiswhatIwanttodowithmylife.Can’tyouunderstandthat?Icannotbeawaitressforever.Icannotspendmylife herebalancingyourbooks,justwaitingforsomeguytocomerescuemefromamundanelife!”shecontinued “Iwantmorefor myfutureandthisistheonlythingIhavebeentrulygoodat!Andothersthinksotoo!Itishardtogetacceptedandtheywant me!”
“No.”herepeated,slamminghishanddownonhisdesk,makingheracceptanceletterfalltothefloor.“AndthatisthelastI wanttohearaboutthis!”
Everglaredbackatherfather,herfaceredwithanger,still fightingbackthetearsthatwerethreateningtoescape “Dad, youdon’tknowmeoreventrytoknowme.YouhaveneversupportedmydreamsandnowIhaveachancetopursuethem,and youshutmedown!”sheshouted,risingfromherseat.“Maybeyoulovethisfarm.Maybeyouarecontenttobeheretherestof yourlife,butIwantmoreformylife!”
“Ifyougo,youarecompletelyonyourown!”hereplied,hisfacetwistedwithirritationandfrustration “Youwillnotget financialsupportfromme”
Ever leanedover hisdesk,her tearsnow falling,andchargedhimwithher brazenhazel eyes.Furyintheir depths.“You thinknotgivingmemoneyisgoingtostopme?”sheasked,unwavering.
“Ihopeyouareprepared.”Hecontinued,adisparagingtoneinhisvoice.“Itsnoteasyoutthereintheworldandyouare notexactlyacitygirl”
Ever threw her hands up and started to pace her father’s office, steamrisingfromher as she turned to face her father, closed her eyes, and took a long deep breath, trying to calmher frustration. “Daddy, I amnot a little girl anymore”, Ever whisperedvoicecrackingwithemotion.
“Ever….”hestarted,andsheboldlyheldupherhandtohim,haltinghisnextcomment.
“Daddy,Iloveyou,butI’mgoingtodothiswithorwithoutyoursupport”
ThelateAprilskydancedinhuesofpinkandpurplewithahintoforangereflectingonwhatwasleftofthesun.Ever
Woltonturned downthe gravel road leadingto her familyfarm Alarge woodensigncominginto view withthe wordsPrairieSkyAcresdisplayedinboldblackletters Wornanddesperatelyneedingapaintjob,thesilhouetteofahorse, llama,andsheepstillvisible.Shesmiledasadsmile,thinkingofherlatefather.Everturnedleftandslowedtoastop,putting hervehicleintopark,takinginthelongdrivewayleadingtothetwo-storyfarmhouse,cuteandpicturesque.Aclassictwo-story homepaintedacheerfulyellow andtrimmedinwhitewithaninvitingcoveredporchwrappingaroundthefrontofthehouse. Thehouse,setadistancefromtheroad,hadalushgreenfrontyard,wassurroundedbywheatfieldsoneithersideandbehind thehouselaythefarmyardandpastures.PrairieSkylookedlikesheremembered.Justasitlookedinherrear-viewmirrorten yearsagowhensheleft,swearingnevertoreturn.
Closinghereyes,memoriesofherchildhoodfloodingbackintoherconsciousness,shewipedawayastrayteartryingto escapethroughherlonglashes Pullingoutacompactmirrorfromherpurse,shedabbedatherfacewithatissue Herfacewas flushedredandeyessoreandpuffy Shehadcriedsomanytearssinceherfather’ssuddenpassingtwomonthsago Thelong drive fromToronto to her Manitoba familyfarmgave her far too muchtime to think. Swallowingdownhard, she drew ina deepbreathandletitoutslowly,tryingtogaincontrolofheremotions.
“Youcando this,” she whispered as she shifted into drive, makingher waydownthe remainder ofthe longdriveway leadingtothehouse Pullinghervehiclenexttothehouse,sheparkedonthegravelparkingpad Exitinghercar,shescanned the farm site across the yard A large red hip roof barn stood like a beacon at the end of a path, surrounded by several paddocksanddensepasturebeyond.Thesoftwhinniesofhorsesandbleatsofsheepechoedsoftlyinthebreeze.Evergathered herlongmahoganywavyhairaroundtheside,closedherhazeleyesandbreathedindeeply.Theairwasripewiththesmellof sweethay,livestock,andlilacs.Shesmiledanostalgicsmile. Smells like home
Shakingher head,she came aroundher car,puttingher keyinthe trunk's lock Suddenly,she was startledbya shrill,yet recognizablesqueal
“Ever!”theknownvoiceshouted.EverturnedtoseethefamiliarfaceofherchildhoodbestfriendBeaBaxterleaningover thesiderailingofthefarmhouseporch,handintheairwavingvigorously.
“HeythereBea!Iwasnotexpectingyoutobeheretonight!”
Disappearing,Bea’sfootfallswereheardboundingdownthewoodensteps,thewalkway,thenaroundthecornertoEver’s car,stoppinginfrontofher.Herwildcurlyredhairandbrightgreeneyesbeaminginwelcometoherchildhoodfriend.Bea’s petitefive-footoneinchframe,asalways,makingEverfeellargenexttoherpixiesizefriend.Despitehersmallstature,she made upfor itwiththe size ofher personality.Boldandsassy,she was as fieryas the hair onher headanda fiercelyloyal friend WrappingherarmsaroundEver,shesqueezedwithsurprisingstrength
“Ihavemissedyou,Bea!”
“Ihavemissedyoutoo!”shereplied,lookingupatEver,heremeraldeyestwinklingwithdelight.“Welcomehome!” Ever andBea releasedtheir embrace andturnedtoface the farmyardbefore them.The friends bothstoodthere,takinga quietmomenttoreflect.BeaturnedherheadtolookupatEverwithsadnessinhereyes.
“Iamsosorryaboutyourdad”
Ever mether sympathetic gaze and swallowed downthe constrictinglump buildinginher throat Her dad was gone and
nowshewasheretosortouthisaffairs.Heretodealwithallthememories,bothgoodandbad,thendecideonthefateofthe familyfarm.Herdadwasastrong-willedmanshebothlovedsomuchandresentedallthesame.Amanshemissedmorewith therealizationthathewasnolongerhereonthisearth TheweightofthesituationlaylikeacinderblockonEver’schest To avoidthetearsthreateningtoescapeagain,Everpusheddownheremotionsandturnedbacktoherfriend,givingheraresigned smile.“Thanks…”sherepliedwithadeepsigh.“NeverthoughtIwouldbehereagain.”
Beafrownedandgaveheranothersupportivesqueeze,knowinghow difficultthishomecomingwasforherfriend.“Let’s goinsideandgetyousettled,”shesuggested
Pivotingtofacethecar,EverunlockedthetrunkandBeareachedforaheavysuitcase,pullingitoutwitheaseandstarting upthepathtothestairsleadingtotheporchandfrontdoorofthefarmhouse.Evershookherheadinamusementandchuckled asshegrabbedtheremainingtwodufflebags.
Meetingontheporch,Everretrievedthekeyfromitsusualhidingplaceunderthelargeceramicflowerpotnexttothedoor. Dustingitoff,sheputitintothelockandturnedthekeytoherchildhoodhome Openingthedoorslowly,arushofmemories overtookher,memoriesshewasnotsureshewasreadytorelive
Withhesitation,her eyes roamedthenarrow frontentranceandstaircasewiththebanister leadingtotheupstairs.Along hallwaytotherightledtothekitchenatthebackofthehouse.Anarrow woodenentrancetableagainsttherightwall helda brightlycoloredceramicbowlshehadmadeforherfatherduringamiddleschoolartclass.Asetofkeysoccupiedthebowl, alongwithsome loose change Above it, the antique mirror she used to checkher hair as she ranoutthe door to catchthe schoolbusormeetherfriendsforwhateverfunactivitytheyhadplanned.Nexttotheentrancetablewastheslidingdoortoher father’s office.Slidingthedoor openafoot,shepeekedinside.Alarge,heavyoakdeskwas coveredwithstacks ofpapers, oakshelvesfilledwithwornbooksandmagazines,andaworn-outbrownleatherofficechair.Inthecornerbythewindow,her father’soldwell-lovedrecliner andoppositefromtherecliner wasatall setoffilingcabinets Sheslidthedoor closedand resignedthatsoonshewouldhavetogothroughhisthings
To the left ofthe front entrance was a cased openingto the livingroom. The rustic stone fireplace withthe oakmantel againstthefarwalldisplayingphotosoffamilyandfriendsandalarge-framedsketchofherfatherwithhisprizedshowhorse hungaboveit.AlargebrownleathercouchangledtofacethecornerwithanoldermodelTVonaweatheredwoodencabinet.
Thehouselookedthesame Alittledusty,butlikenothinghadmovedorwasoutofitsplace Justasitlookedthedayshe left
Ever ranher hand over the backofthe leather couch, the softness ofthe leather invitingyouto sitand stayawhile. She rounded the couchand stopped to lookatthe sketchabove the hearth. She smiled, knowinghow muchher father loved that sketchandalwayssaiditwasoneofhisprizedpossessions.Pickingupaframedphotooffthemantle,shegrinned.Sheandher fatherwereonhorsebackafteratrailride Shewasaround12yearsoldandlovednothingmorethantheirtimeridingtogether Herheartswelledattheirhappyfacesinthepicture Itwasasimplertime,atimebeforeanimositycloudedtheirrelationship Atimewhenshethoughtherdadhungthemoon.
Suddenly,anoverwhelmingfeelingoftrespassingwashedoverher,andherfather’sharshandhurtfulwordsranginherear. If you think this place is not good enough for you, leave!Go and don’t even think of coming back!
Evercouldstillfeeltheexcruciatingburnofhiswordsandseetheangeranddisappointmentonhisface Closinghereyes, shetookinadeepbreath,lettingitescapeinalong-painedexhale.
“Areyouokay?”Beaasked,alookofconcernonherface.
“Yes,sorry.”shereplied,shakingherheadtowipethememoryfromherforethought.“Justalotofmemories.”
Beagaveheraknowingsmileandsilencefilledtheroomasthepairstoodtheretogetherinsilentreflection Breakingthe silence,Beaasked,“Howlongdoyouplantostay?”
Everturnedtoherfriendandreplied,“MyplanisuntilaftertheSeptemberlongweekend.Sojustoverfourmonths.”she answered.“HopefullybythenIwillhavemadeadecisionaboutPrairieSky.”
“Iknowyouwillmaketherightdecision.”Beareassuredasthepairmadetheirwaybackintotheentranceanddownthe halltothekitchenatthebackofthehouse
Theretrokitchenwasbrightandspacious,withbutcherblockcountertopsandwhitewoodencabinetswithblackwrought
ironhandles.Againstthefarwall,anavy-bluevintagestylegasstovestoodwithacopperhoodventoverhead.Totherightof the stove a copper double farmhouse sink, and a navy-blue vintage refrigerator. Lace curtains embroidered with cheerful daisiesframedthelargekitchenwindowoverthesinkandlookedoutoverthefarmyard Alarge,weatheredpinekitchentable withsixchairsoccupiedtheremainingopenspace.Eversmiled,takinginthewelcomingcountrykitchenshehadalwaysloved somuch.
“Ihavestockedthefridge,freezer,andcupboards,soyoushouldhaveeverythingyouneed.Ialsomadeyouafreshpitcher of suntea, just how youlike it, withlemonand sugar” Bea explained, flashingher a sweet smile, thencontinued “I have spokentoyourfather’sfarmhandwhowillmeetwithyoutomorrowmorningtogooverthefarmbusinessandgiveyoualayof theland.”
“Soundsgoodandthankyou.”,shenoddedasayawnescapedwithherreply.Beaputherhandonhershoulderandgaveit agentlesqueeze.
“Youmustbe exhausted after all thatdriving Letme leave youto settle inand geta good night’s sleep The beddingis fresh,andyoushouldsleepwell Ihopeyoudon’tmindthequietcitygirl!”Beajokedwithasassysidewayssmirk “IthinkIcanhandleit.”Everlaughedtiredly.“Honestly,thequietseemsprettygreatrightnow.”
Ever and Bea made their waybackto the frontdoor. “Lunchtomorrow atthe Eazy?” Bea asked, her eyebrow raised in question.
“Yes,soundslikeaplan,”Everagreed,bringingherfriendinforanotherhug
Withabrightsmile,Beaembracedher,thenmovedintothehallway,openingthefrontdoor.Everwatchedasshehopped downtheporchstepstoherbrightblueToyotatruck,exclaiming.“Seeyoutomorrow!”
Startinguphertruck,BeagaveEveraquicktwofingerwaveassherolleddownthedrivewaytowardstheroad.
Everclosedthedoor,andbreatheddeeply,theeeriesilenceofthehousealmostdeafening Turning,Everenteredtheliving roomflickedonthelamps,makingshadowscastonthewalls Surveyingtheroomoncemore,shestrodedownthehalltothe alreadybrightlylitkitchen.Openingthefridge,shegrabbedthepitcherofsuntea,tookatallglassfromthenarrowcupboard nexttothefridge,exactlywheresherememberedthemtobe,andpouredherselfsometea.Takingalongsip,shesavoredthe sweetandsourtasteandsighedatthecomfortitgaveher.Lookingaround,shehuggedtheglassclosetoherchestandglanced atthekitchentable Somanymealsandconversationshadbeensharedtherewithherfather Whatshewouldnotgivetotalkto himagainortohearhisdeep,bountifullaugh Makingherwaybackdownthehall,sheglancedbrieflytotheleftatherfather’s officedoor. Soon, shethoughtassheopenedthefrontdoor andsteppedoutontotheporch.Thelastofthesunsetwasfading intothehorizonasshewatchedthestarsbrighteninthevastcountrysky.
Relishinginthe quietofthe moment, she breathed inthe crisp cleanair and feltthe chill ofthe late April nightkiss her face Thewide-openspaceofthefrontyardwassuchacontrastfromherhomeofthepasttenyears Shegrinnedinreflection, thinkingofherquaintbutbustlingneighbourhoodintheLowerEastSideofToronto Shelovedwhereshelived Theincredible streetart,interestingshops,galleries,trendyrestaurants,andpatios made itnotonlya funplace tolive,buta greatplace to createandgetinspired.Shelovedherstudioapartmentinacharacterhometransformedintoasix-plexapartmentbuilding.The largebrightwindowsbroughtinnaturallight,perfectforhertopaintby.Atrueartist'sdream.Ithadbeenherdreamforsolong toliveinthecityandevenwithherfarmgirlupbringing;shefitintothisstylishuniqueneighbourhoodlikeahandfitsaleather glove.Itwasperfectforher.Despiteadecadeinthebigcity,Everhadtoadmit,thequietofherfamilyfarmwasawelcome reprieveandexactlywhatshemightneedrightnow.
“Perhaps getting out of the city will be good for you?” Her agent and friend Whitney had suggested. “Perhaps this change in scenery and some fresh air will inspire you to create again ”
IthadbeenthreeyearssinceEver’slastgalleryshowingandithadbeenalmosttwoyearssinceEver hadpickedupher paintbrushes.Attimes,herfingersachedtoholdthem.Eventhen,noinspirationcame.Thinkingofthismadeanall-consuming fear of failure envelop her, and she sighed. Stepping down the stairs, Ever sat down on the top step, looking towards the expanseofnightsky.Thedarknesshadfullydescended,andamillionstarstwinkledbrilliantlyaboveher.Memoriesofsitting hereonthisstepwithherfather,lookingatthestarsashepointedoutconstellations,enfoldedherlikeawarmblanket
She had missed this place so much Sadness and regretconsumed her Despite the bitter lastwords, theyspoke to each
other that fateful day, Ever missed her dad more than words could express. Never had she thought she would never have spokentohimagain.Neverdidsheimaginehewouldbegonefromthisearth.Wipingawayasingletearthatrolleddownher cheek, she swallowed downa sob threateningto escape Grippingthe glass oftea tightlyto her chest, she stood, takingone more look at the beautiful stars shining above her. To the moon and back, Daddy. An excruciating tightness in her throat overtookher,sheturned,goingbackupthestairs,ontotheporchandthroughthefrontdoor,lockingitbehindher.Theweightof loss,regret,andresponsibility,heavyonherheart.
TherefreshingmorningbreezerustledthecurtainsinEver’schildhoodbedroom,bringinginthesmellofsweetlilacs.
Wellrested,shesatup,yawned,andrubbedthesleepfromhereyes Swingingherlonglegstothesideofthebed, she stood up tall, arms above her head in a deep stretch Glancing in the long mirror hanging from her closet door, she appraisedherself.Ever hadalwaysbeentaller andcurvier thanmostofher friends.Thisbeingapointofinsecurityattimes during her youth, she had long embraced her voluptuous body accepting her statuesque figure. Now at 30 it brought her confidence,aswellasattentionfromtheoppositesex.
Adjustinghersleeptankandshorts,shegrabbedherterryrobe,slippingiton,leavingitloosearoundher Makingherway out of the bedroom, she strode down the hall to the bathroomto take care of her morning needs, then down the staircase destinedforthekitchen.Theunmistakablesmellofcoffeeenvelopedher,andshebreatheditinwithappreciation.
Grabbingamugfromthecupboard,shefilledit,leavingjustenoughroomforasplashofmilk,whichsheretrievedfrom thefridge Steamingmuginhandshereachedfor thebackdoor offthekitchenthatledtothebackdeck Sheputthehotmug gingerlytoherlipsasshelookedoutoverthefarmyard Takingasipofthewarmamberliquidsheclosedhereyes,lettingits soothingbitternesswarmherthroat.
“Hello.”adeeprichvoicesounded.
Startled, Ever jumped and looked around her quicklyto be metbyanunexpected stranger sittinginher father’s rocking chair, holdinga cup ofcoffee ofhis own He had perfectlytousled lightbrownhair, a full groomed beard and mesmerizing oceanblueeyesthatslowlycrinkledonthesides Helookedruggedinaplaid,wornworkjacket,fadedbluejeansanddusty blackworkboots.Everscannedhimcautiously,onlytobegreetedwithawarm,amusedsmile.Hissmilereassuringher,she lethershoulderssagasshebreathedoutandletoutanervouslaugh.
Risingtogreether,heputouthishandinafriendlygesture.“Sorrytostartleyou,Ms.Wolton.Thebackdoorwasopen,so Imadeussomecoffee MyapologiesifIoverstepped”
Eversurveyedhimtakinginhislargeframethattoweredoverher Hisshouldersandchestwerebroad,hisphysiquethick andmuscular.Hispresenceoverpoweringthespacebetweenthem.Despitehisintimidatingsize,heradiatedakindgentleness thatbothcalmedandintriguedher.
Realizingshehadnotyetspoken,andtheawkwardsilencewasgrowingbetweenthem,sheclearedher throatandshook herheadtoregainherwits Puttingoutherhandtotakehis,shereplied,“PleasecallmeEver Andyouare?” He took her hand quickly in a firm shake and apologized again, “So, sorry. Ben Hastings, your father’s, umm, your farmhand.” Theybothlookeddownathis huge handholdingher muchsmaller one.The contrastinsize almostcomical.She slowlylookedup,meetinghisintoxicatingbluegaze,swalloweddownhard,andgavehimanamicablesmile.
“Nice to meet you, Ben” she greeted, suddenly feeling self-conscious as she glanced down at her robe and pajamas Noticingthetops ofher breasts threateningtoescapeover thetopofher sleeptankandlongbarelegs onfull displayinher veryshortpajamashorts,herfacereddened.
Ben’seyesinadvertentlygrazedoverherbodyand,realizinghisstarelingeredtoolong,hequicklylookedaway. “Sorry.”Everlaughednervouslyandwrappedherrobeoverhercurvesandtiedittocoverherself.
“It’sokay,thisisyourhome,”Benrepliedwithahintofasmileonhislipsashelookedintheoppositedirection “Ihope youdon’tmindthatImade us some coffee Your father andIwouldalways enjoya cupbefore we tackledthe chores ofthe
day.”
Ever puther hands onher hips, cocked her hip to the side and looked up athim, her eyes twinklinginthe morningsun. “Anytimeyouwanttobreakinandmakemecoffee,youarewelcome!Doyoumakebreakfasttoo?”sheteased,givinghima playfulwink.
Ben,entertainedbyherlightheartedquestion,matchedher.“Areyouoffering?”heaskedwithabaritonechuckle.
Ever grinned, takinginhis question, bringingher hand to her chinas if givingit some thought. “Eggs and bacon?” she asked,eyebrowsraisedinquestionassheturned,openingthestormdoortoenterthekitchen “PrettysureIhaveallweneedto makeaheartyfarmbreakfast Cannotworkonanemptystomachafterall”
BEN RAN his handover his thickcoarse beardandgave Ever a broadsmile ofagreement Followingher intothe kitchen,he stoleamomenttotakeinthecurveofherbodyandrichreddish-brownhair,softwavesbouncing,stillmessedfromsleep She wasmorebeautifulthanhehadremembered.
Havingbothattended Primrose HighSchool, he was a senior whenshe was a freshman, makingthemalmostfour years apart in age. Normally their paths would seldomcross despite the small size of their high school, however every day he admiredherfromthebackofthebusasshedriftedonandtookherseat Tallandlankyinhisteens,hisheightmadehimstand out,butbecausehewasquietandselfadmittedlynerdy,heneverfitinwiththepopularcrowd.FromthemomentEverentered PrimroseHighSchool,shewasthe“it”girl.Thegirlalltheboyswantedtodateandwas,withoutquestion,completelyoutof hisleague.
ThroughhisfinalyearofhighschoolandaftergraduationBenstartedworkingfull-timeatthelocalfeed-millsobytheage oftwentythehardlabouralongwithafinalgrowthspurtnotonlyhelpedBenbulkupfullybutalsobroughthimtoatowering sixfooteightinches.LeavingPrimroseat21foruniversity,helivedinadormonlycominghomeonweekendsandwouldsee Ever fromtime to time around towneither withher dad or withher friends. Everytime he did, he was awed ather natural beauty.Andnow,manyyearslater,thatundeniablebeautyhadonlyincreasedasshegrewintoastatuesque,stunningwoman.
BenstoodbackandwaitedasEverrummagedaroundinthecupboardsandfridgetoretrievethetoolsandfoodsheneeded tomakethembreakfast “CanIhelpinanyway?”heaskedeagerly,rubbinghishandstogether
“Sure!”sherepliedbrightly.“Howaboutyoucrackthoseeggsintothatbowlandgivethemascramblewiththatwhisk?”
“ThatIcando!”Benexclaimed,takingoffhisworkjacketandrollingupthesleevesofhisgreyblueHenleyshirt,takinga spotonthecounternexttoher.“Howmanydoyouwant?Iusuallyeat4or5.”
Everunapologeticallylookedhimupanddown,makinghimfeelveryawareofhersoftpresencenexttohim Sheoffered himacheekygrinandreplied “Ihavenodoubtyoudo”
Bensmirked,givingherasidewaysglance.
“Twoeggsarefineforme,bigguy!”shejoked,asshelittheburnerandaddedthebacontothecast-ironskillet.
Benwas never so thankful for his full facial scruffas he was now, feelinga warmblushcreep up his cheeks fromher flirtatiousteasing
AsEverfinishedtheirbreakfast,Benseatedhimselfatthekitchentable,takinginthegracefulwayshemovedaroundthe kitchen. Dear Lord, she is gorgeous.Realizinghewasstaring,andhismouthhaddried,hetookalongsipofhiscoffeeasEver platedtheirbreakfasts.Turningaround,Everpresentedhimwithabigplateoffluffyeggsandbacon.
Takinghisplate,heofferedheranappreciativesmile “Thankyou,thislooksamazing!”
Evertouchedhisforearmandgavehimanappreciativesmile Herfingertipslingeringbrieflybutmemorablyonhiswarm skin.Itwassuchasmallgesture,buttheeffectofhertouchmadehisbodyinstantlyawareofher.“Whileweeat,canyougive mearun-downofwhatwearedoingtoday?”sheasked,takingaseatnexttohim.
Henoddedandshifted,givinghermoreroomandcouldnothelpbutenjoyherproximitytohimandhowtheirarmsbrushed astheybothdugintotheirbreakfasts Astheyate,theytalkedlightlyaboutthegeneralmorningchores,whatneededtobedone today,andthemenagerieofanimalscurrentlyresidingonthefarm
Ever picked up a slice of perfectly cooked bacon. Taking a bite, she closed her eyes and let out a low moan of appreciation.
Ben’s head turned to her, his blue eyes widened, and he swallowed downslowly, feelingthe guttural sound deep inhis core.
Sheopenedhereyesandmethis,hercheekstakingonarosyhue.“Baconismyaphrodisiac.”Shelaughednervously.
Almostchokingonhiscoffee,heclearedhisthroatandreturnedhisgazetoher.“Noted.”Benreplieddeadpan,thecorners ofhismouthslowlyliftinginagrin
BothBenandEver burstoutinafitoflaughter astheyreturnedtotheir breakfastandconversation Drainingtheir mugs, theybothstoodfromthetable,takingtheirdishestothesink.
“I’ll do these later.” Ever declared, reachingoutto take his plate. As she grabbed his plate her hand covered his. Both slowlymeteachother’seyes.Somethingintangiblepassedbetweentheminthatmoment.Anintensesparkofattractionmaking goosebumpsinstantlyriseonhisarms Noticinghershiverandherbreathhitch,hecouldseeEverfeltittoo Notwaveringhisgaze,hetooktheplatesfromher “YoucookedsoIwillclean”
“Thankyou.”Everreplied,steppingawayfromhimasifprocessingwhathadjusthappened.“MindifIquicklygetdressed andjoinyoubackdownhereinabouttenminutes?”
“Go ahead. Iwill be here waiting,” he answered, flashingher his handsome smile as he putthe dishes inthe farmhouse sink
Her head spinningand her face flushingwithheat, she quicklyturned, rushingoutofthe kitchen, and up the stairs to get readyforthedayahead.
EVER QUICKLY CLOSED herbedroomdoor,restingherbackagainstit,breathingheavily,herfacehotandherbodyevenhotter. What the hell was that?
Neverhadshefeltsuchanimmediateattractiontoaman.Somethingsopalpableitmadeherheadfeellightandhervision blur Whenshetouchedhishand,theboltthatwentthroughthemwasunquestionablyelectric What am I doing? Ever closed hereyestogatherherthoughtsandinhaledashakybreath “Benismyfarmhand”Shewhisperedsoftlytoherself,tryingtostop theflutterofbutterfliesinherbelly.“Heisheretoworkforme,”shewenton,tryingtoremindherselfofthisfact.“Ican’tget involved.”Softeninghershoulders,shesighed. But he is so sexy, shemused,bitingherbottomlip. I am in so much trouble.
Takingadeepsteadingbreath,shequicklyremovedherpajamasthenslippedonapairofwornboyfriendjeansandagrey formfittedlongsleevet-shirt Grabbingherhairbrush,shebrushedoutherlonglocksandfashionedthemintoamessyponytail Slippingintothehallway,shemadeherwaytothebathroomtofreshenup,brushherteeth,andsmoothedonsomemoisturizer Shelookedupintothebathroommirrorandsmiled,happywithwhatshesaw.Sheneverhadbeenaglamourgirl.Neverfelt theneedtospendher commissions onfancymakeup.Moisturizer,ChapStickandwhengoingoutatouchofmascarawas all sheneeded.Lowmaintenanceandnatural.Exactlythewayshelikedit.
Lettingoutanother nervous exhale, she descended the stairs and made her wayinto the kitchen, where Benwas putting awaythelastofthedishes,atoweldrapedoverhisbroadshoulder. Damn, how does he make that look so good? Turningher way,hecaughtsightofherandinadvertentlylookedherupanddown,hiseyesflashingwithapproval.
Benmether eyes as a faintblushappeared onhis cheeks. Clearinghis throat, he glanced awayto disguise his obvious appraisal
Was he blushing? Shegrinnedattherealizationthatshewasaffectinghimasmuchashewasaffectingher Andifshewas beinghonestwithherself,shelikedit.Shelikeditalot.
Slippingonapairofherfather’sworkboots,sittingbythebackdoorandlargeworkjacket,Everlaughed,realizinghow ridiculousshelookedswimminginherfather’sclothes.
“Whydon’twegotothefarmsupplystorelatertodayandgetyoubootsandajacketthatfit?”Bensuggestedwithalaugh, takingherin
Evernoddedassheopenedthestormdoorandtrudgedherwayacrossthedecktothestairsanddowntothegravelpath leadingtothebarn,Benfollowing.Theystrodesidebysideacrosstheyardtowardthebigredhiproofbarn.
“BigRed!”sheexclaimed
Bensmiledandslidtherollingbarndooropen,revealingalongaislewayflaggedby12boxstalls,sixoneachside.The tall ceilingand wood rafters made a nice contrastfromthe metal ofthe boxstall gates. Atthe backofthe barnwas a feed room,tackroomandbarnoffice.Astheywalkeddownthebarnaisle,alittletabbybarnkittenscamperedpastthem,andBen reacheddowntoscoopitup Eversmiled,takinginthisgiantofamanasheheldthelittlekitteninhishugehands,pettingit gently Somethingaboutthishugemanholdingsomethingsovulnerableandtinymadeherchestwarm Hemethereyeswitha meltinggazeandputthekittenintoherhands.Itpurred,lookingupatherwithitssweetfaceandmeowed.Theybothsmiled andEversetitdowngently,lettingitscamperaway.
Theycontinueddownthe aisle towards the barnoffice andBenunlockedthe door.Piles ofpapers andfile folders were neatlyorganizedonthedesk Thewallswerecoveredwithbrightlycoloredribbons,andthebuilt-inshelvesalongthefarwall werefulloftrophiesfromherfather’shorseshowingdays Havingspentmostofherchildhoodweekendsathorseshowswith her father, she appreciated the work that went into acquiring those accolades. Her father was well known for his cowboy prowess,andsheenjoyedwatchingherfatherrideandcompete.
BenfollowedherperusaloftheroominappreciationandofferedEverasmile.“Yourfatherwasanimpressiveman.”
Taking a seat across fromthe desk, a constrictive lump of sadness formed in her throat She breathed in raggedly and whispered.“Yes,hewas.”
Benmethereyes,sensinghersorrowandreflectedhersadnessnowonfulldisplay.“Iamsosorryforyourloss.”
Everlookeddownatherhands,tryingtosteadyherself,andletoutalong-painedexhale.Meetinghissympatheticgaze,she asked,“Didheevertalkaboutme?”hervoicebreakingwiththequestion
“Allthetime”Bennodded,lookingintoheranguishedeyes Shesmiledback,alookofregretonherfaceasaroguetear escaped,makingitswaydownhercheek.
Bengotup and rounded the small desk, stoppingnextto her and crouchingdownbeside her chair. He reached over and tenderlybrushedthesingletearfromhercheekwithhiscallousedthumb,makingherinstantlyfeelcomforted.Shemethiseyes again,sofullofcompassionandsheofferedhimanappreciativesmile
“I think I just needed to hear that We had not talked for so long Somehow, I wondered if he forgot about me,” she confessed,lettingoutasigh.
Benshookhisheadandsmiledkindly.“Hardinwasamanoffewwordsandalthoughheneversaidmuch,Icouldtellhe hadalotofregrets.”
Eversearchedhiseyesathisreassuringcommentandgavehimasadsmile “Thankyou” BenrosetohisfeetandputhishandouttoEver “Readytofeedtheanimals?”heasked Everlookedupatthisgentlegiantofamanfeelingasenseofcomfortenrobeher,makingherfeelprotectedandsafe.She tookhisofferedhandandrosetoherfeetastheyexitedtheofficetogether.
TOGETHER THEY FED andwateredthesheep,goats,llamas,andhorses.Astheyworked,theylightheartedlysharedstoriesabout herfather,theirfamiliesandpeopletheymutuallyknewfromtown.
“Youmentionedyouliveinthecitynow Whatcitydoyoucallhome?”Benaskedwithcuriosityasheleanedonthegate, restinghisarmsonthetoprung
“Toronto.Imovedthereabouttenyearsago.”Shereplied,pattingonesheeponthehead.
Bengaveherawarmsmileashepickedupthehosetofillupthewatertroughs.“Whatbroughtyouthere?”
“ArtSchool.Iloveditsomuchthere,Idecidedtostay,”sherepliedthoughtfully.
“Loved?”Benquestioned
“Yeah”shehesitated “Imean,IstillloveTorontobutlatelyIhaven’tfeltveryinspiredthere”
Hiseyebrowsraisedinquestion,andhestoppedwhathewasdoing,givingherhisfullattention.
“Iamanartist.Apainteractuallyandmylastgalleryshowingwasthreeyearsago.IthasbeenawhilesinceIhavepainted. Ihopeachangeinscenerywillhelp”
Bennodded,acknowledgingherreasoningandEvercontinued.“Withmydadpassingandhavingtofigureoutwhattodo withhisestate,Ifigurednowwasasgoodatimeasanytocomeback.NotsurewhatIamgoingtodoyet.”
Benglanced her way, takinga momentto process her admission, thenspoke. “ObviouslyIlove Prairie Skyand myjob here,butdon’tletmeswayyourchoice,”heoffered “Iwillbefinewithwhateveryoudecide”
“WhatareyougoingtodoifIdecidetosellPrairieSky?”
Benleanedagainstthegate,crossinghislegs,formulatinghisanswertoherquestion.“Well,IhaveaBachelorofArtsin AgricultureandBusiness.”Benreplied.“So,Ihaveafewoptions.Thedreamistoownafarmoneday,though.”
“So,thisfarmhandthingisn’tjustajobforyou?”sheaskedwithaplayfulwink.
“Notatall”Benlaughed “After Igraduated,Iworkedfor afew businesses,includingmyfamilyhardwarestore,which mybrothernowmanages;HastingsHardware”
Evernodded,knowingthestorehewasreferringto.
“Yourfatherwaslookingforhelpbothwiththefarmworkandwithmanagingthebusinessend.So,hehiredme.Thatwas sevenyearsagonow.Ilivejustdowntheway,aboutfourmileswestofhere.”
“So,youareaPrimroseHighGraduate?”Everinquired,eyebrowsraisedasshelockedthepaddockgate Benflashedherahugesmile.“Iam.Classof2007.Iwasaseniorwhenyouwereafreshman.”
Everlookedupathimsuddenlymeetinghisgazewithanamusedsmilecurlingupherlips.Bencaughtherinquiringlook andgaveheraresignedsmirkwithashrug.
“DidyouknowwhoIwasbackthen?”Everasked,puttingherhandsonherhipsandjuttingonehipouttotheside Damn, she is gorgeous Offeringherasmile,hepaused,knowingtherewasnowaytodenyit,andmetherinquiringgaze “Idid.Youwerehardtoforget,”headmitted.
“Youlikedwhatyousaw?”shecontinuedplayfullyvolleyingitbackathim. Benlookedawayquicklyashefelthischeekswarm. How does she do that to me?
“Youknowyouarecutewhenyoublush”shelaughedasshepickedupthefeedbucket,putherhandonhismuscularbicep andgaveitasqueeze “GladIwasmemorable,”shecontinuedcoquettishlyasstrodeintothebarn
Ben’sbreathcaughtwithhertouch,hisheartpoundinginhischestashiseyesfollowedtheswayofherhipsasshewalked away.Theeffectshewashavingonhimwashardtodescribe.Theattractionbetweenthemwaspalpable.Herpresencemade himbothnervousandexcited. Alittle too excited,hethought. How am I going to resist her? Heaskedhimselfasheturnedto followher
THEY FINISHED upthe morningchores and,after updatingEver onthe currentfarmbusiness,theymade their waybacktothe farmhouse
“So,what’sontheagendaforyoutherestoftheday?”Beninquired,glancingathiswatch.
“GoingintotowntomeetBeaforlunchattheEazy.Andyou?”
“I’mheadingintotowntoo.”Benanswered.“Ineedsuppliesforsomepaddockrepairsthisafternoon.”
“Afarmer’sworkisneverdone!”EverexclaimedassheturnedaroundtofaceBen,awhimsicallookonherface “Itneveris,”hereplied,givingherasweetsmile “Meetlaterthisafternoonatfarmsupply?” “It’sadate!”sheoffered,flashinghimadazzlingsmilewithawink.
Withflushedcheeks,hetookinherwords,andhislipscurvedintoasmile.“Seeyoulater.” “Wouldn’tmissit!”sheshouted,knowingexactlywhatshewasdoingtohim.
Primrose was a typical prairie town, 40 minutes southeastofWinnipegand 20 minutes fromthe small cityofSt. Augustine Withapopulationofjustover2000residents,itwasaquietclose-knitcommunitysurroundedbyfamily farms and vastopenfields mainlycomprisingwheat, canola, and sunflowers The townhad two schools, one church, a post office,amechanicshop,hardwarestore,aninsuranceagency,afirehouse,afeedmillinthecentreandexactlytwoplacesto grabameal,LingsChineseFoodrestaurantandthecoffeeshop/gasstation/anythingyourheartdesiresstorecalled“EazyCafé andGasBar.”
EverpulleduptotheEazyandgotoutofhercar Thesignonthefrontwaswoodenandworn,thesamesignthatgracedthe frontofthebuildingwhenshewasakid.Shesmiledatthefondmemoriesofthisplace.Aplaceshehungoutatwithfriends andworkedatinherteenyears.Ithadnotchangedandwasstillthebestplacetogetagreasyburger,aswellasthelatestpiece oftowngossipwithyourvisit.
Eversteppedintothecafeandwasgreetedwiththesmelloffriedonionsandburgersonthegrill,aswellasfamiliarand unfamiliar stares fromthe patrons occupyingthe tables andbooths Their curious stares were followedbywhispers as Ever spottedBeasittingintheirfavoriteboothalongthebackwall.
BeajumpedoutoftheboothandslowmotionrantoEver,wrappingherarmsaroundherwhenshereachedher.
“Youalwaysknowhowtomakemelaugh!”Everexclaimed,throwingherheadbackinlaughter.
Beashruggedandflashedherasassysmirkasshemadeherwaybacktotheirtable Evertookaseatacrossfromherand pickeduphermenu
“What’sgoodhere?”Everaskedcheekilyasshepagedthroughtheancientmenu.
“Ha! That menu has not changed in the last twenty years!” Bea laughed. “Same greasy goodness! Want to share a Cheeseburgerplatterliketheolddays?Oh,andtwochocolateshakes?”sheasked,raisinghereyebrowsinquestion.
Slammingdowntheworn,crackedmenuonthetable,Everreplied “Deal!”
Abubblyblondeteenwaitresstooktheirorder,andtheysettledintotheirboothwithfamiliarease
“So,howwasyourfirstmorningbackattheoldhomestead?”Beaaskedwithcuriosity,takingasipofherwater.
“Kind of surreal. Feels strange but good to be back as well.” she replied. “Did the morning chores with Ben, got acquaintedwiththeanimals,andhewalkedmethroughthecurrentfarmbusinessdetails.”
“So,youmetBen?”Beaasked,aglintofmischiefinherquestion
“Idid.”Eversmiledinreflection.“Hesurprisedmethismorning.Imusthaveleftthekitchendooropen,andhemadeus coffee.Wehadbreakfasttogetherbeforeheadingintothebarn.Doyouknowhimwell?”
“Girl,Iknoweveryone!”sheansweredwithabigguffaw,thencontinued.“Benisagreatguy,literallyoneofthebest.He lives with his younger brother Hayden in their childhood home, not far fromyou Both his parents passed away in a car accidenta few years ago His parents ranthe local hardware store and since their passingHaydenruns the familybusiness Benhelpshimfromtimetotime,buthisheartisonthefarm.Heisafarmboythroughandthrough.”
Evernoddedinagreement.“Yes,youcantellhelovesit.Hesaidhehopedtohavehisownfarmoneday.”
“Yeah,thatmanwasdestinedforfarming.Builtforittoo!Heishuge!”Beaexclaimed,throwingherhandsuptoemphasize herpoint “Likeafreakin’tree!”
Theybothgiggledliketwoschoolgirlschatteringoveraboy
“Theydefinitelybrokethemoldwhentheymadehim.”Everagreedwithanappreciativesmirk.“Hesureishandsome,too. Ifyouare into thathuge, muscly, rugged countryboylook…” she trailed off, staringbeyond her friend inthought, her teeth grippingthecornerofherbottomlip
Bealeanedbackonthebenchandcrossedherarms,herlipscurvingupinaknowingsmile.“Youlikehimalready,don’t you?”
Everfocussedbackonherfriend,ahugesmileonherface,knowingBeacouldreadherlikeabook.“Heissosweet.He hasthisquietgentlenessabouthimthatseemslikesuchacontrasttohissize It'skindofintriguing,”shereplied,andletouta littlewhistle “Andhesureisprettytolookat”
BothEverandBealookedateachother,thenbrokeintoafitofgigglesasthedoorchimesounded.
“Speakofthedevil…”Beawhisperedfromthecornerofhermouth,hereyesdartingtowardsthedoor.
Turning,EverlookedupandtoseeBen,hisimposingframetakingoverthecaféentrance.Hisbrightblueeyessurveyedthe tablesandstoppedwhenhespottedthem Hisrighthandwentupforacasualwaveandheflashedthemablindinglyhandsome smile Ever’sgazewaslockedinadmirationforthemanacknowledgingthemfromacrosstheroom
BealookedatEverinamusementwithahuge,wickedgrin.
Evercaughtherlookinherperipheralvisionandwhispered.“Iamsoscrewed”.
“Withanyluck…”Beawinkedatherfriendcoyly.
EverchokedoutalaughasBenslowlystrodetotheback,fieldinggreetingsfromlocalsandstoppingattheirtable “HeyBigBen!”Beaexclaimedplayfully.
BenturnedtoBeaandsmiledtomatchheramusement.“Heythere,BittyBea!”
BealetoutabountifullaughasBen’sgazesettledonEver.ShenervouslylickedherlipsattheintensityofBen’sfocuson her Hiseyesdartedtohermoistenedlipsassilencesettledoverthetrio Awkwardly,Everclearedherthroatandshiftedinher seattofacehim “Hi!”sheblurtedoutquickly “Longtimenosee!”
Benlaughed,andhis eyes crinkledendearinglyatthe corners. How I want to reach up and touch those beautiful lines. Perhaps run my fingers through that beard? Evershookherheadtoremovethedistractingthoughts.
“Wanttojoinus,Benny?”BeaaskedasshegesturedtotheopenspotnexttoEver,givingheraslywink.
“Sorryno,IwishIcould Justpickingupsome takeout Youladies have fun,andIwill see youperhaps at4pm atthe FarmSupply?”heconfirmed,bringinghisattentionbacktoEver
Shenodded,flashedhimanagreeablesmile,andkickedBeaunderthetableasshewasstillsmirkingatthemboth. HegaveEver another heart-stoppinggrin,acknowledgedthembothbrightly,turnedandmovedtowardsthecashregister. Payingforhisfood,hegrabbedhistakeoutbagandturnedaroundtogivethemonelastsmolderingglancebeforeheexitedthe café
Beareturnedher attentiontoEver,pureenjoymentradiatingonherface “Holycrap!Isithotinhere?”sheaskedalittle tooloudly.
Ever rolled her eyes and shook her head, a hot blush creeping up her face. Hot indeed! she agreed to herself as she watchedhimgo.
BEN DEPARTED theCafeandhoppedintohistruck,tossinghislunchnexttohimonthepassengerseat.Firinguptheengine,he grippedhissteeringwheel,stealingadeepbreathbeforeshiftingthetruckintodriveandpullingoutofthegravelparkinglot AsheeaseddownthemainstreetofPrimrose,histhoughtsdriftedtoEver Hermesmerizinghazeleyeswithflecksofgoldthat twinkled whenshe smiled. Her creamyskinand the longcurve ofher neckwhenshe puther hair backthathe so wanted to reachoutandtouch.Hisfingerstingledatthethoughtandadeepyearningformedinhischest.Thewayshelaughedwithhim andsharedsoopenlywithhim.Howshewassovulnerablewithhiminthebarnofficethismorning.Makinghimachetohold her inhisarmsandstrokeher backsoftlytoconsoleher Had I ever felt the overwhelming desire to care for and protect a woman? Was the attraction and need as overwhelming for her as it was for me? No question He couldsee itinher eyes
Shewasasdrawntohimashewastoher.
At34,hehaddonehisshareofdating.Afewmadeitpastthefirstfewdates,buthehadneverhadaseriousrelationship. Hewasnotasaint,havinghadhisshareofcasual physical experiences,buthehadnever feltsuchanintenseandimmediate connectionwithanyoneuntilnowandhewasnotquitesurewhattodoaboutit.
OVER THE NEXT TWO WEEKS,BenandEversettledintotheeasyroutine Earlymornings,sharingcoffeeandbreakfasttogether, followedbychoresanderrandstogetherintown.Theireaseoflaughter,lightheartedconversation,andflirtatiousbantermade eachdaygobyquickly.
Everenjoyedhisdeepbaritonelaughastheyjokedandhisslyglancestowardsherwhenhethoughtshewasnotlooking. Hisgorgeousblueeyesmadehermeltwitheventhesmallestoflooks Shehaditbad,andsheknew it Shewascrushingon himmore thanshe wanted to admit,consideringtheir employer/employee dynamic and ifshe was beinghonestwithherself, shewasn’tevenfeelingguiltyaboutit.
Everynight,hispresencecreptintoherdreams.Hot,steamydreams.Hiseyesweredarkwithlustandhiscome-hithergrin consumed her, makingher ache to touchhim. How she longed to runher hands throughhis sexy, disheveled hair, downhis deliciouslyhandsome face and over his muscular shoulders, chest, and stomach Get yourself together, she scolded herself everynight,onlytofallasleepagain,overtakenwithracydreamsofBenHastingsandallthatshewantedtodowithhim.
BEN TOSSED andturnedandfinallyopenedhis eyes tostareintothedarkness Heswunghis legs outofhis bedandheldhis headinhishands.Everwasconsuminghiseverythought,andhecouldnotshakethedeeplonginghefeltforher.Theconstant ache for her, makinghimsleep deprived. He had notsleptwell over the pasttwo weeks since Ever arrived atPrairie Sky. Every time he closed his eyes, she was there, beautiful, wanton before him. Get a grip, he chided himself. She is your employer
WhenheacceptedthejobfromHardinWolton,heofcourseknew whoEverwas Heknew how incrediblybeautiful she was,butnowgettingtoknowherandspendingsomuchtimealonewithher,hisschoolboycrushwasmorphingintofull-blown desire.Adesirehewasfindingdifficulttowardoff.
Lettingoutadeepexhale,herosefromthebedandmadehiswaydownthelonghallway,throughthelivingroom,andinto thekitchen
Openingthefridge,hetookoutthemilk,andheturnedonthestoveburner Perhaps some warm milk would help me sleep As hepulledoutasaucepotandpouredagenerous amountofthecreamyliquidintothepan,heheardthefamiliar jingleof keysandthefrontdoorlockdisengage.
Hayden must be home. He thought, lookingup to see the old woodenclockturnto midnight. “Heythere Cinderella!” he exclaimed,ashisyoungerbrotherjoinedhiminthekitchen
“Whatareyoudoingupatthishour?”Haydenaskedasheranhishandthroughhisshort,mediumbrownhair.“Warmmilk? Breakingoutthebiggunstonight?”
Bensmiledresoundinglyandglancedathisyoungerbrother.Standingsixfeettall,Haydenwasmuchsmallerinstaturethan his brother was Where Benwas broadandthick,Haydenwas leaner andmore toned Althoughtheyobviouslydidnotlook exactlyalike,theysharedthesameoceanblueeyesandhandsomesmile Heleanedagainsttheisland,armsfolded,givingBen aquestioninglook.
“Beenhavingahardtimesleepinglately.”Benexhaledoutwithexasperation. Haydennodded his head, a knowinggrinslowlycreepingup his face. Cockinghis head to the side, he considered his brotherforamoment “CouldthisdisruptioninsleephaveanythingtodowiththelovelyMs Wolton?Shesureisgorgeous!” Benlookedupathisbrotherandgavehimasearinglooksquintinghiseyes
“JustcallingitlikeIseeit,bro!”Haydenexclaimed,holdinghishandsupintheair. Benswalloweddrylyandreturnedhisattentiontothemilkboilingonthestove.Turningofftheburner,hepouredthemilk intoalargemugandtookaseatattheisland
Haydentookaseatnexttohimandpivotedtosurveyhisbigbrother,continuinghisinterrogation.“She’sgotyouall bent outofshape,hasn’tshe?”Haydenaskedpointedlywithanamusedsmirk.
Benlookedupfromhismugthentookalongsipofthecreamywarmmilk,feelingitsoothehim.Resigned,henoddedin answer
Haydenleanedbackandcrossedhisarmsoverhischest “Areyougoingtoaskherout?”heasked Benlooked up at Haydenquickly, meetinghis brother's eyes, and let out a huge guffaw. “I can’t! She’s technicallymy boss.”
Haydenfollowedhisanswerwithachuckle.“And…”hetrailedoff. “WhatifIdoanditdoesn’tgowell?Whatifwegetseriousandbreakup?”hequestioned Haydengave his brother a broadsmile,stoodfromhis stool andpattedhimonthe shoulder “Whatifitworks out?” He asked,playingdevil’sadvocate.“Iwouldaskher,Ben.Ifyoudon’t,Iamsuresomeoneelsewill.”Haydenadded,exitingthe kitchen.
Ben stared into his mug in contemplation. Would she say yes? Would things get awkward? So many questions and scenarios were runningthroughhis head all atonce Ifhe were to be bold and take a riskinpursuingEver Wolton, without question,shewouldbeworthit.
EverturneddownthegravelroadleadingtoPrairieSky.Theunmistakableorangeofherfather’sKubotatractorcame into view, withBenatthe wheel Ever’s jaw dropped, takinginthe scene Benaloftthe tractor, shirtless inall his tantalizing sweaty muscled glory His tanned skin glowing in the warmMay sunshine, a light smattering of hair above his perfectlyformedpecs,andathickcinchedwaist. Was that a 6 pack?
Evercouldfeelthedroolpoolingatthecornerofhermouthandshebitherbottomlipinappreciation.“DearGod,giveme strength.”Shemutteredoutloudtoherselfassheparkedhercar.
Exitingthecar,naughtythoughtsofBenburnedinherbrain Everretrievedseveralbagsofgroceriesandcarriedtheminto thehouse.Assheputdownherbagsonthekitchentable,sheheardtheloudrumbleofthetractorandglancedoutthekitchen window to see Benparkingitbeside the barn. Ever shookher head and blew outa breathslowly. How can one man be so incredibly sexy? Sheaskedherself.Shakingherhead,lettingoutagiggleatherinappropriatethoughts,shewentbackoutthe frontdoor,hoppeddowntheporchstairs,andmadeher waybacktoher opentrunktogettherestofher groceries Spotting movementinherperipheralvision,sheturnedtoseeBenleaningagainstthehouse,watchingherwithafriendlysmile,stillin allhisshirtlesssplendor,workpantssittinglowonhiships,thedeliciousVofhishipsonfulldisplay.Evernervouslytooka deepbreathandexhaledquicklytosteadyherpoundingheart.Sheturnedtohimandaskedhuskily,“Donefortheday?”
“Iam,”herepliedashedriftedovertomeether.“Doyouneedhelpbringinginyourgroceries?”
“IthinkIcanhandlethelastofthegroceries,butIcoulduseyour helpwithcarryingintheboxandeasel”Shereplied, gesturingtothebackseatofhercar “It’salittleheavyforme”
Benopenedthebackdoorandgrabbedthelargeboxwithease,holdingitwithhisleftarmandgrabbingtheeaselwithhis right,hisamazingmusclesflexing.
Ever looked oninawe and let out a little nervous laugh. “I had a hard time just gettingthat into the car! Should have broughtthemusclewithmetotowntoday,Isee!”
Grabbingthelastofthegroceries,sheswayedpasthim,givinghimateasingwink,climbedtheporchstairsandenteredthe house,withBenfollowingcloselybehind.
“Wheredoyouwantthis?”
“Just put that box down in the corner by the living roomwindow and can you set up the easel in front of the picture window?”sheaskedasshemadeherwaytothekitchentodeposittherestofthegroceriesonthekitchentable
RejoiningBeninthelivingroom,shewatchedashepositionedtheeaselinfrontofthelargewindowoverlookingthefront lawn.
“Whatisallthisstuff?”heasked,gesturingtothelargeboxhe’dcarriedin.
Everstrodeover,croucheddownandopenedtheboxtoshowhimthepaint,palettesandbrushessheordered
Hiseyesbrightened,givingheranapprovingsmile “Areyoupreparingtopaint?”
“Iam.”, she replied. “Or hopingto, Ithinkwould be more accurate”, she said, lookingdownatthe boxand over to the easel.
Benpursedhislipstogetherandgaveheraslightfrown,acknowledgingherstruggle.“Whattypeofpaintingdoyoudo?” heaskedwithgenuineinterest,wantingtobrightenhermood “NotthatIknowthatmuchaboutart”
Eversmiledupathim,lovinghisthoughtfulquestion “Impressionismmostly HaveyouheardofClaudeMonet?”
“WaterLilies.”heofferedproudly.
“Yes!”sheexclaimedinsurprise.“Youknowmorethanyouthinkyoudo,”sheappraisedhim,makinghimgrin.
“So,whathasinspiredyourworkinthepast?”hisquestioningcontinued
“Oh,goodness,somanythings!MostofmypastworkwouldcomefromstrollingthroughmyneighbourhoodinTorontoand aparknotfarfrommyapartment.TrinityBellwood’sPark.Haveyouheardofit?”
“Ihaven’t.Tellmeaboutit,”heinsistedwithcuriosity,leaningbackagainsttheleathercouch.
Everpivotedherselftotakeaseatonthehardwoodfloorandstretchedherlonglegsinfrontofher,leaningback,resting herweightonherpalms “It’sthisurbanparkinthemiddleofatrendyneighbourhoodinToronto Sortofanurbanoasis,but still verybusywithcyclists, runners and the like. Ithas the mostgorgeous view ofthe CNTower betweenthe trees;lots of flowers. Bustling, yet peaceful, too. Like the best of both worlds. It’s one of my favorite places in the city.” Ever mused thoughtfully.
Bensmiled,hiskindnessradiatingthrough,ashetookinherdescription “Soundsnice PerhapsIshouldvisitsometime”
Shemirroredhissmile,meetinghispersistentgaze “Iwouldlovethat”
Companionable silence fell betweenthem, until Bencleared his throat, breakingtheir silence. “I should go. Haydenis draggingmeouttonight.Beersandbabes!”hedeclaredwitharollofhiseyes.“Hayden’swords,notmine,”Bencorrected,a flushonhischeeks.
“Oh,thelifeofsingle,hotcountryboys!”sheteasedwithagiggleasshebentherlegstostand “Letmehelpyouup,”heoffered,extendinghishandtoher.
Shelookedupathim,meetinghiskindgaze,andacceptedhishand.“Thankyou.”
Benpulledher toher feet,underestimatinghis strength,andshe crashedintohis bare andhardas concrete body.Putting bothhandsupinstinctivelytobraceherself,shelookeddown,onlytorealizebothofherhandswererestingonhisveryhard, veryimpressivepecs Shecouldn’thelpbutsplayherhandsoverthehardmusclesastheyreflexivelytwitchedunderhertouch Hishandswerenowonherwaisttosteadyher.HerT-shirtliftedslightly,exposingathinbandofskin.Asifinvoluntarily,his hand caressed the bare skin, makingher breathhitchatthe sensationofhis touch. She bither bottomlip, inhalingthe heady smelloffreshcutgrass,sweatandmuskymale,makingallhersensesgointooverdrive.Dartinghertongueouttowetherlips, Everlookeduptomeethisblueeyes,intenseandhungry,makinghercoreinstinctivelypulse Sheswallowedslowly,looking againtowardshisimpressivechestunder her palms,thennervouslybacktohiseyesflashinghimaplayful grin “Layoffthe weights,bigguy,yougotbiggerboobsthanIdo!”
Ben’seyesslowlycrinkledatthecorners,andheletoutadeep,bountifullaugh.Ever,hercheeksflushed,laughedtooas sheremovedher handsfromhischestandsteppedbackfromhisstronghold.Shrugging,Ever offeredhimanother smileand swayedpasthimtowardsthedoor,herheadstillspinningfromtheircloseness “Thanksforyourhelpandhavefuntonight!”
“Whatareyoudoingtonight?”heasked,tryingtobenonchalantwithhisquestioning “AreyouandBeagoingouttopaint thetown?”
“Paintthetown?Howoldareyou,Mr.Hastings?Ibelievemygenerationcallsitwhoopingitup,”shedeadpannedwitha twinkleinhereye.
“Oh,pardonme,Ms Wolton!Willyoubeout,whoopingitup?”heaskedwithavolleyinglaugh “Perhaps!”sheshruggedinreply.“Willwerunintoyoumenfolkcarousingabouttown?” Benlaughedagain,appreciatingthewayshemadehimlaugh.“Perhaps.”Heresponded,givingherawinkashemadehis waydowntheporchstairstowardshistruck.
BEN STRODE towardshistruckandglancedbackatthestunningbeautylingeringontheporch,needingtotakeherinagain.He turned awayand shookhis head, lookingdownathis hands, still tinglingfromtouchingthe softskinather waist. His face warmedasherememberedhow shefeltclosetohim Thesweetsmell ofherskin,likevanillaicecream Soclosehecould seetheflecksofgoldinherhazeleyes Thoseeyessofullofnervouswonderanddesire Yes, that was desire,hethought In
thatfleetingmoment,hefeltherwantforhim,too.Anacknowledgingsmileovertookhimasheroundedhistruck,openingthe driver’ssidedoor.“Yes.”hewhisperedtohimselfwithdetermination.“I’mgoingtoaskherout.”
EVER OPENED the frontdoor to find her friend’s brightand beautiful face. Bea’s emerald, greeneyes were framed withlush long lashes and her lips were glossed with the most luxurious shade of red Her fiery red hair was worn down with her signaturewildcurls Sheworeablackrazorbacktanktop,tightblackjeansandkillerbrownsuedecowboybootsmeanttodo someseriousdancingand,ifneedbe,seriousasskicking.Shelookedlikealittlecountrygoddess.
“Holysmoke,Bea!Youlookincredible!”Everexclaimed,gesturingforhertospinaround. Beaslowlyturnedaround,givingherfriendthefullview,andbowed.“Itry.”shewinkedslyly.
Beastoppedandappraisedher friend Ever woreawhiteloosefittingofftheshoulder peasantblouse,darkwashskinny jeans and blacklow heel ankle boots She wore her hair loose inwaves and had her naturallybeautiful face made up with mascaraandlipgloss.
“Youlookgorgeous!Urbanbutcountrytoo!Ilove it!” she commented withappreciation. “These dirtyold countryboys willnotknowwhathitthem!”
Everbeameddownathertenaciousfriend Oh, how I’ve missed her AfterEverhadleftPrimrose,theyhadkeptintouch, butBeawasonlyabletovisither ahandful oftimes.Whenshedidthough,her lifeofthepartypresencealwaysmadeEver feelhappy.Theycreatedmanyfunmemories,touringToronto’shotspotsandsippingcocktailsonthepatiosofKingStreet.Bea couldfitinnomatterwhereshewas,andEveradmiredthat.
Grabbingherhousekeysandasmallcrossbodybag,theymadetheirwayoutontothelit-upporch,andsheturnedtolock thedoor “Sowhereareweheaded,BB?”sheaskedplayfully Bearolledher eyes atthenicknameBengaveher andflashedamischievous smileatEver.“ThePickledPigover inSt. Augustine!It’sthisold-timehonky-tonkbar,totallycheesy,superfunatmosphere!Greatdrinkspecials,fantasticmusic,andan awesomedancefloor!Also,thecrowdismixedsousoldieswon’tlooklikecougars!“
“Cougars?Wearebarely30!”Everchokedoutinlaughter
“Yep,cougarstatushasbeenactivated!Wewanttogowheretherealmenare!”Bearepliedwithawinkasshegotintoher truck.
Everfollowedherintothepassengerseatandturnedtoquestionher.“Whichmen,mayIask,willbethere?”
Bea’slipsliftedintoanamusedgrin,knowingexactlywhatherfriendwantedtohear.“LastIheard,Hayden,BEN…”Bea emphasizedenunciatinghisname
Ever settled into her seat and buckled her seatbelt Ben would be there, she thought Afeeling of nervous anticipation settledinherstomachasshereflectedontheirencounterthatafternoon.Therewasnooneelseshewantedtoseemore.
Beapulledintotheparkinglotof“ThePickledPig”,awinkingbrightneonpigperchedonthefrontwearingacowboyhat greetedthemalongwithmusicandlaughterwaftingfromthebarfillingtheparkinglot.
“Thisplacelookslikefun!”Eversmiledbrightly,clappingherhandswithexcitement
Beanoddedwithasmileandeagerlyboundedoutofthetruck.Everfollowedsuitandroundedthevehicletomeether.“Let thefunbegin!”Beaexclaimed,loopingherarmthroughEver’s.
Bothwomengiggledliketeenagersastheyenteredthebar,thefamiliarsoundofLukeBryan’s“ShakeitforMe”blasting throughthe speakers Surveyingthe crowd, itdid nottake longfor themto spotthe guys leaningagainstthe longbar Ben’s height,broadshoulders,andshaggybrownhairstoodoutlikeabeaconcallingthemover
As they approached, Hayden turned, spotting them, and shouted above the loud music. “Ladies!” then whistled in appreciation,takingthembothin.BenturnedandmetEver’seyes.Hiseyesgleamedashedrankherinbrazenly,makingher faceflushwithheatattheintensityofhisperusal.
“HeyBB!” Benacknowledgedher friendas she gave himanaffectionate shove Bengave her a quickwistful smile and broughthisattentionbacktoEverlockingherinwithhispersistentstare
HaydenlookedoveratBeaandhiseyeswidened. Beasmiledback,mouthing;“Iknow,right?”andshrugged.
HaydenglancedbackandforthfromBentoEver “Areyougoingtoofficiallyintroduceme,BigBro?”heasked,clearing histhroattogethisattention.
Breakingtheirconnection,Benofferedhisbrotherasmile.“Hayden,thisisEverWolton.Ever,thisismybrother,Hayden Hastings.”
EverputoutherhandtoshakeandHaydenflashedherhisdebonairsmile Takingherhand,heputittohislips,kissedit andflirtatiouslygaveherawink “Pleasuretomeetyou,Ever!”
Bearolledhereyesandgavehimanexasperatedpunchinthearm.
Bengrowledunderhisbreath.
Startled,Ever’seyesdartedtoBen,andanamusedsmilecurvedherlips.“Didyoujustgrowl?”sheaskedwithagiggle. Hiseyesmethersandsoftenedinanswer
How cute!Like a big bear Shemusedtoherself
Hayden’seyestwinkledwithdelightashelookedbackathisbrother.Benflashedhimadirty“backawayandyouwon’t get hurt” look. Shrugging, Hayden laughed, knowing he was getting under his brother’s skin. “What can I get you ladies?” Haydenofferedasheturnedtothebartender.“Thisroundisonme.”
“Surpriseus!”BeashoutedplayfullyassheloopedherarminHayden’sandturnedtogiveEveramischievouswink
As Haydenand Bea waited to order drinks fromthe bartender, Ever tooka momentto take inher surroundings. The bar wasdimlylit,withraisedboothssurroundingtheperimeter.Theextra-longoakbar topwasflankedbyamirroredbackdrop andthreelongwoodenshelvesofalcohol bottles.Brightneonsignsgracedthewallsinfundesignsandsayings,withahuge woodendancefloorinthemiddle EvenbyTorontostandards,thisplacewasunquestionablycool
Everreturnedherattentiontothegiantofamannexttoher,givinghimacoysmileofapprovalashereyesexaminedhim withappreciation.“Youcleanupnicecowboy!”
Heworealightbluebutton-upshirt,thetopthreebuttonsopen,showingoffhisimpressivephysique.Thighhuggingdark wash,bootcutjeansandbrowncowboybootsfinishedoffhislook.Inonewordhelooked–yummy.Eversmiledatherthought, inadvertentlybitingherbottomlip,thenglancedupathimflirtatiouslythroughherlashes,meetinghisunwaveringgaze
BEN’S MIND wasreelingashewatchedEverbiteherbottomlip,theactiongoingstraighttohisgroin. What would he give to run his tongue over that lip? Nip it Suck on it Wicked thoughts overtookhim, makinghimveryaware ofhis body What would it be like to kiss her? Thefeelingofanticipationwasasthickandheavyonhimasitobviouslywasonher Hisbreath labouredashetookherinagain.Shewasaknockout.Hersilkymahoganyhairflowedinnaturalwaves,herflawlessskin,long lushlashes framedher intriguinghazel eyes.Her mouth-wateringcurves strategicallyaccentedbyher flowyoffthe shoulder blouseandtightdarkwashjeans.Benhadneverseenawomanlooksexier.
Haydenand Bea returned, disruptinghis naughtythoughts withdrinks inhand Beers for themand two cocktails for the ladies.“LongIslandIcedTea!”Beapresentedtoherfriendwithaflourish.
“Yum!”Everexclaimed,takingalongpullfromherstraw,closinghereyes,andlettingoutasatisfiedmoan.
Ben’seyeshoodedinstantlyashetookinhergutturalsound.Hisbodyrespondedinstinctivelyinappreciation.
Everopenedhereyesandlookeduptomeethishungrygaze Herfaceflushing,shecommentedhuskily,“Sorry,itjusttastes sogood!”
HaydenandBeasimplywatchedBenandEverwithinterestandamusementasifwaitingforsomethingtohappenbetween them,resultinginanawkwardsilencebetweenthefoursome.Endingtheir observation,BeaslappedHaydenonthebackand suggested.“Whydon’twegosayhitoafewfriendsandleavethesetwoalone?”
Hayden,takingherhint,wiggledhiseyebrowsandfollowedBea,disappearingintothecrowd
Bengavehisbrotherasidewayssmirk,tookalongpullofhisbeerandrockedonhisheels,nervouslylettinghiseyesdrift
overthecrowd.
Everadmiredhimthoughtfully,headcockedtotheside.“Doyoudance?”sheasked.
“Ican yes,”heresponded “Doyouwanttodance?”heasked,puttinghisbeerdownonthebarandreachingforEver’s drink.Shenodded,tookanotherlongsipfromherstraw,andquicklyhandedittohim.“Doyouknowhowtotwo-step?”
“No,butcanyouteachme?”sheasked,bouncingwithexcitement.
“Iwouldloveto!”Benreplied,flashingheraconfidentsmile.Takingherhandandleadinghertothemiddleofthedance floor,helookeddownattheir feetandshowedher themovementwithhisown “Slow,slow,quick,quick Makesense?”he asked,raisinghiseyebrowsinquestion “Don’tworry,I’llstartusoff,andyoujustfollowmylead”
Evernoddedwithdelight.
Benstarted to move, and she quicklypicked up onthe tempo, followinghimstep for step, glidingacross the floor. She beamedwithjoyandagiggleescapedherlipswhenhewhirledheraround,turninghertogoanotherdirection.Benrelished thefeelofherclosetohim Hersofthandinhisandhislargehandsplayedonhershoulderblade Hisfingertipsinstinctively reachedforthebareskin,brushingitlightly Sheradiatedinhisarms,laughingandsquealingwitheachtwirlandspin Purejoy markedherbeautifulfaceandhisheartswelledatherhappiness.
Afterafewup-temposongs,themusictransitionedtoaslowsong,“Amazed”byLonestar.Bothstilllaughingandbreathing hard,Benstillholdingherhand.Heraisedhiseyebrowinquestion.Evernodded,nowordsneedingtopassbetweenthem,just knowingthattheywantedtocontinuetodancewitheachother Benwrappedhisstrongarmaroundher waistandpulledher intohim,hisrighthandstillholdinghers.Afaintgaspescapedherthroatashebroughtherflushwithhisbody,lookingupat himnervouslybutwithapproval.Hetookinthefeelofhersosuppleagainstthehardconcreteofhisbody.Suchacontrast,like cottonagainststeel.Lookingdownintoherstunningeyes,adeeplongingformedinhischestandwiththehitchofherbreath,he knewshewasfeelingittoo
EVER SMILED upathisunbelievablyhandsomefaceandwasovercomebyafeelingofwarmthanddesirebuildinglow inher core Thebutterfliesinherstomachflutteredstronglyasheheldhercloseandswayedtothegentlebeat Themovementofhis rock-hard bodyagainst hers made her feel lightheaded and needyfor him He brought their coupled hands inclose to their bodies,anaffectionategesturealigningtheir hearts.As shelookeddownattheir fingers intertwinedsoperfectly,shefeltall herresolvemeltaway.Shecouldnolongerfightoffherattractiontohim.Herhearthammeredinherchest,andshecouldfeel his pulse, fastand steady, againstthe backofher hand. Her rapid breaths synchingwithhis. Deep withdesire and sparking with electricity, she looked up at himand licked her lips to steady herself, knowing exactly what he wanted, because she wantedittoo Theburningheatofhishungersearedherwithasinglequestion Yes,shenodded,wantingnothingmorethanhis lipstotouchhers.SlowlyBenleaneddown,neverwaveringhisgazefromhers.Stoppingmeremillimetresfromherlips,they stoleafinalbreathtogether,hotandheadywithanticipation.Hereyesflutteringclosed,shefelthisdeliciouslysoftlipscover hers,ignitingaflameinherheart.
BEN COULD FEEL thedesireburnfromdeepinsideherashislipsgently,wantonlymovedoverhers.Hefelthergiveintohim fully, all doubt gone as she melted in his arms His tongue darted out boldly, tracing the rimof her lips until they parted, allowinghimin, his tongue slidingwithhers ina beautiful tangle He deepened their kiss, feelingthe passioninhimrise, wantingtoconsumeherineveryway.Shetastedsosweet,likeariperedstrawberryinthesummer.Pureperfection.Likeno otherkisshehadexperiencedbeforeorwouldeveragain.Theirsearingkisslitamatchinsidehischest,burningatrailstraight tohisheart.Benknew,rightthereonthatdancefloor,thattherewasnootherwomanhewouldwanttohold,kiss,andsomeday soon,makeloveto EverWoltonwashis Theypartedbreathlesslyandwithasinglelookintoherrapturouseyes,heknewshe hadclaimedhimtoo
Theydancedthenightaway,laughingtilltheirsideshurtandstealingkissesasmuchastheycould.Kissinghimfelt natural to her, like theywere always meantto kiss She could feel the sexual tensionbuildingbetweenthemwith eachtendertouchofhisfingersonherskinwhentheydanced Itwasintoxicatingandmadeherheadspin Shefeltdrunkonthe feelingshewasstirringinher,andshecouldnotgetenough.Inevitably,thenighthadtoend,soshepulledBeaaside.“Doyou mindifBengivesmearidehome?”
Beagrinnednaughtily,givingheralittlewaggleofhereyebrows.“Goclimbthattree!”
Everburstoutlaughingandshookherheadatherfriend’scrazycomment “WillyoubeokaytodriveHaydenhome?Pretty surehewillneedaride”.
“Yep,IamwayundermylimitsoIcantakethatgoonhome.”Shereplied,lookingatHaydenputtingthemovesonabusty brunetteonthedancefloor.Beashookherhead.“Thatboyhasnopride.”
TheybothlaughedandBeaconceded,flashingherawickedgrin “Goon,getoutofhere,havefunanddon’tdoanythingI wouldn’tdo!”
“So,anythingIwant!”shequippedbacktoherfriendwithagiggle. “Prettymuch!”Bealaughed,givingherashrug.
EverturnedandsaunteredbacktoBen,slippingherhandintohis.
“Areyoureadytogo?”heasked,givingheroneofhisdevastatinglyhandsomesmiles “Yes!”shereplied
TheywavedtoBea andHaydenandtoa few other people theyknew as theyleftthe bar,handinhand.GettingtoBen’s truck, he led her to the passenger side and opened her door for her. The chivalrous gesture notlostonher, she wentonher tiptoes and kissed himchastelyonthe lips. Givingher a tender smile, he helped her into the truck. He circled backto the driver's side andhoppedintothe cab,his hands grippingthe wheel as he turnedtomeetEver’s intense gaze I want him so much, she thought, transfixed byhis beautiful eyes, so full ofpassionand promise Feelingher bodyvibrate witha nervous desire,sheslidupnexttohim,wantingtofeelhisclosenessandwarmth.Wrappinghislargearmaroundher,hepulledherinto hischestandstartedtracinghisfingertipsundertheedgeofherblouse,overtheexposedskinofhershoulder.Theheatofhis touchmakinggoosebumpscoverherskin.Restingherhandonthetaut,hardmusclesofhisstomach,herhandburnedfromthe heatradiatingoffhim Benshiveredfromhertouch,andshesmiledupathimwantonly,lovingthathewasfeelingtheintensity ofthebuildingtensionbetweenthem,too.
“Iliketouchingyou.”Shewhispered,peeringupathimthroughherlonglashes,lickingherlipsandlettingherfingertips slipboldlybetweenthebuttonsofhisshirttohisbareskin.Hegroanedandquiveredunderhertouch.
“God help me Ever; I’mhavinga veryhard time beinga gentlemanhere,” he confessed, his lustful eyes dartingto her Resigned,sheflashedhimaplayfulsmileandpattedhisstomach,thenslidbacktoherside,bucklingherseatbelt Turningto him,shegavehimasatisfiedsmirk.
Heletoutadeepgrowl,makingherlaughinamusement.
“Bringmehome,youBigBear.”
Benletouta longexhale, concedingto her sweettermofendearmentfor himwitha smile as he fired up the truckand
EverreachedforhishandastheydrovebacktoPrairieSky,acontentedquietfallingonthemboth.Sherelishedthefeelof alarge,warmhandinhersashisthumbstrokedhersaffectionately.
Parkingnexttothefarmhouse,Benexitedfirstandcamearoundtoopenherdoor Swingingherlegsouttojumpdownfrom thecab,hecaughtherbythewaistandliftedherdownslowly,herbodyslidingdownthehardlengthofhim,makingherbreath hitch. Anunmistakable lookofhunger onhis face, he closed her door and engulfed her inhis strongarms, holdingonto her earnestly.She couldfeel his rapidheartbeatagainsther cheek,makingher ownincrease intime withhis.Theystayedthere, enraptineachother’sarms,feelingthedeepconnectiontheycouldnolongerandwouldnolongerfight Releasingherfromhis hold, he smiled and tenderlytookher hand inhis, leadingher downthe gravel walkwayto the farmhouse Together, hand in hand,theyclimbedthe porchstairs tothe frontdoor.Standingatthe door,he lookeddownather withdeepadorationinhis eyes. Running his hands through her hair, his fingertips caressing the nape of her neck, making her shiver under his touch. Bringinghis other hand to her face, he caressed her cheekand ranhis thumb over her bottomlip. His gaze intense and hazy withdesire,heleaneddown,brushinghislipssoftlytohers
Feelingintoxicatedbyhissweetkiss,shemovedtorunherhandsthroughhishairanddeepentheirconnection,pullinghim intoher.Herdesireigniting,theirtonguesmetlikeamatchbeinglit,smolderingpassionburstingintoaflame.Hetightenedhis grip onher body, claimingher mouthas his, all his self-control leavinghim. Liftingher to his waist, her longlegs wrapped aroundhimashepressedherbackagainstthesolidwoodofthefrontdoor,theirkissspiralingintoafull-blownfire.Hislips lefthers,roamingtoher earlobe,givingita tender nip,makingher whimper withneed Kissingdownher neck,he blazeda trailwithhistongueoverhercollarbone,makingEvermoaninappreciation.Herthroatysoundsmadehimgrowlinreply.
“You’regoingtokillme,Ever.”hewhisperedhuskily,completelybreathless.Puttinghisforeheadtohers,hepantedouthis breaths,ashetriedtoregaincontrol.“Ifwegoinsiderightnow,Iknowallmyself-controlwillbegone.”
“MaybeIwantyouto,”sheconfessed,herfaceflushedwithasexy,kissedsenselessglow Hegrowleddeeplyatherwordsashecapturedhermouthinanotherscorchingembrace Hepressedherbodyharderinto thedoor.Thehardnessandheatofhisbodyagainstherssenthermindreeling.
“Ineedtostop,Ever.”hegroanedout,breakingtheir kissagain,thistimelettingher slidedownhisbodyandsettingher gentlyto her feet. She gave hima slightlydejected look, and he shookhis head to reassure her, his eyes meetinghers with sincerity “Iwanttospendthenightwithyou Ever,thereisnothingIwantmorerightnow,butIwantittobespecialwhenIdo, soIneedtoaskyousomething”
Stillbreathingheavily,herlipsredandswollenfromtheirintensemake-outsession,shelookedupathiminquestion.
“Willyougooutonadatewithme?”heasked,hisfaceflushedandhisvoicecomingoutragged.
Shestaredathimamoment,butblinkedandtookinhisquestion.“Don’tyouthinkwehavepassedthatalready?”sheasked withasmiletuggingonherlips
“Seriously,Ever,Iwanttotakeyouout Letmeromanceyoubeforewepickupwherewehaveleftofftonight”
Ever searched his hopeful eyes, realizing he was completely serious. Stretching her arms around his neck, she ran her fingersthroughhisdisheveledhairanddownhisfacethroughhissoftbeard,lovingthefeelbetweenherfingers.“Yes,Iwill gooutwithyou,Bear.”shewhisperedinanswer,hereyestwinklinginthedimporchlight.
Taking her face in both of his large hands, Ben leaned down for one last excruciatingly gentle kiss, making her knees wobblyandweak.Releasingher,hesteppedback,descendedtheporchsteps,andstoleonemoreglanceattheradiantwoman leaningovertheporchrailing,illuminatedinthemoonlight.
“Goodnight,Bear.”shebeamedassheblewhimakiss.
Pretendingtocatchitandputitinhisshirtpocket,hereplied “Goodnightsweetheart”
EVER OPENED HER EYES,awarmsmilecurvingherlips.Shereachedupandtouchedthem,feelingthemtingleatthememoryof Ben’s kisses So softand gentle atfirstand thenso deliciouslyhard and demanding Damn, that man can kiss, she thought, gettinglostinthevisionofhiswantondarkeyesboringintoherandthescorchingheatradiatingoffhim
thethoughtandherpulsequickenedinanticipationofseeinghimtoday.
Glancingquicklyather phone,shesaw atextfromBenpopuponher screen. “Good morning, sweetheart Coffee? See you downstairs ”
Ever grinnedandheldthephonetoher chest,relishinginhisendearmentfor her. Sweetheart,suchasimplethingtocall someone,butcomingfromBen,itfeltsospecial,makingherheartflutter.
Quicklyshedressed,puttingonawornTragicallyHipconcertt-shirt,afadedpairofbootcutjeanswithripsonherknees andbrushingher wavylocks intoamessybunatthetopofher head Speedilytakingcareofher morningneeds,shehurried downthestairseagerlymakingherwaytothekitchen Ashistextpromised,therewasBen,leaningagainstthecountersipping hiscoffeeandlookinglikeeverywoman’ssexyfarmerfantasy.Aweatheredbaseballcaponhishead,anavybody-huggingtshirtwasstretchedoverhisbroadmuscularchest,andbrownworkpantssatlowonhiships.Heapproachedher,handinghera steamingmug,thenleaneddowntobrushhislipstohers,makinghermeltintoapuddlerightthereonthekitchenfloor.
“Goodmorning,”shegreeted,herfaceflushingfromthesyrupysweetnessofhisembrace
“Goodmorning,”hereplied,hissmilingeyescrinklingatthesideslikesheadored “Howdidyousleep?”
“Sogood,” she sighed,bitingher bottomlip.His eyes instinctivelydartedtothe lipshe heldwithher teethandhis eyes darkened.Reachingforhermouth,heranhisthumboverthelip,freeingit,andleaneddowntokissheragain.Releasingtheir kiss,shewrappedherarmsaroundhimandsighed,makingthembothsmile.
“IpickedupbreakfastfromtheEazy FreshCinnamonBuns”heoffered,gesturingtothebakeryboxonthekitchentable Brightening,shereleasedhimandclappedherhandstogether.“Yes!”sheexclaimed,turningherattentiontothetable,and liftingthebakeryboxlid,tobemetbythemostheavenlysmell ofbutter,brownsugar,andcinnamon.Retrievingone,shebit intoitandmoanedinsatisfaction.Creamcheeseicinggracedhertoplip.
Benletoutalittlechuckleandshookhishead,thenwrappedhislargearmsaroundherback,cradlingherinhiswarmth “Yoursoundsaresocrazysexy!”
Everturnedherheadtothesidetocatchhisgazewithatwinkleofmischiefinhereyes.“Howsexy?”
Hegrowled,hissoftscruffticklingherface,makinghershiverashistonguedartedouttolicktheicinglingeringonhertop lip. Ever giggled and turned inhis arms to face him. Withher cinnamonbunstill inhand, she scooped icinginto her finger, smeareditonhislips,thenreacheduptotakeitoffinastickysweetpassionatekiss,makingagrowlrumblefromhisthroat
Breathless,shebroketheirembrace,andshewipedtheremainingicingfromhislips,thensuckeditoffherfinger,giving himaflirtatiouslook.
“Ever.”, he scolded, his voice deep and growly. “As muchas Icould kiss youall day, we need to getthe chores done. BesidesMs.Wolton,Ipromisedyouadatetonight.”
Sheappraisedhimwithanexcitedandcuriouslookonherface “Wherearewegoing?”sheasked “You’llfindout,”heansweredwithatwinkleinhiseye
“Well,whatdoIwear?”sheasked,puttingherhandsupontheairinquestion.“Agirlneedstoknowthesethings.”
Hereachedoutandcuppedhercheek,caressingitgently,makinghersoftentohistouch.“Sweetheart,wearwhateveryou want.Youarealwaysthemostbeautifulwomanintheroom.”
Shemethisbluegazewithaglintofmischiefinhereyes “Ifyoukeepcomplimentingmelikethat,youmayjustgetlucky tonight!”shewinked.
Benlaughed,hisdeepvoicecroakingslightlyashisfaceheatedwithablush.Everreachedupandplantedachastekisson hislipsandgesturedhimtofollowher.“Let’sgetthesechoresdoneandthenyoucanromanceme,cowboy.”
“WHAT HAPPENED LAST NIGHT?”BeaaskedcuriouslyasshebrowsedthrougharackofblousesataboutiqueinSt.Augustine. Shepickedoneofftherackandhelditupherselfinthestoremirror,analyzedherreflection,thenputitbackontherack.
“Alotofkissing”Everansweredsimplyassheperusedarackofdresses
“Icould see that!” Bea laughed “Youtwo were like a mothto a flame lastnight Iwas wonderingifyouwere goingto
undresseachotherrightthereonthedancefloor.Itwaskindofintense!”
Ever’sfaceheatedassheflashedbacktotheirpassionateencounterontheporch.“Intenseisaccurate.”Sheagreed,giving herfriendawink “SeriouslyBea,Idon’tthinkIhaveeverbeensoattractedtoamanbefore Ifeelthispowerfulpulltowards him.Butterflies,fireworks,thewholenineyards.”Evershookherheadandlaughedasshecontinuedtocombtherackinfront ofher.“Seriously,listentomegoingonandonabouthim.Iam30,forgoodnesssake!”
BeasurveyedEvertakinginherexcitement.“Buthaveyoueverbeeninlove?”sheaskedpointedly.
“Honestly,no,”shereplied,shakingherhead “Imean,Ihavedatedmysharebutneveranythingsuperseriousorverylong term Noonehaseverinterestedmethatmuch”
Beaacknowledgedherwordsandreplied.“ButwithBen?”
Everpausedandlookedup,thinkingaboutherquestion.ReflectingonBen’shandsomesmileandmesmerizingblueeyes, she thoughtabouthow he made her feel. He made her feel so beautiful and seen. Trulyseen. Like he knew exactlywho she was,faultsandall,andstillwantedher Aroundhimshefeltprotected,likehewouldneverdoanythingtobreakherheartor hurther “WithBen,Icouldseeitgettingserious”Sherepliedsimply “Hemakesmefeelsafe,andIamnotsureanyone,but mydadmademefeelthatway.Beforeourfallout,ofcourse.”Sheaddedwithafrown.
“That’ssayingalot!”Beaexclaimed.“Benremindsmeofyourdadinmanyways.Astrong,quiettype.Heisalmostkind to a faultand honestly, Ithinkhe would do anythingto protectthe people he loves. Seriously, Ever, Benis one ofthe good ones”
Eversmiled,likingBea’scomments.
“Afterthepastcoupleofmonths,you’vehad,youdeservesomehappiness.”Beadeclaredasshecontinuedhersearchof theracks.Suddenly,BeasquealedandheldupadresstoshowEver.“Thisisit!Itsoyou,Ever!It’ssimplyperfect!”
Evertookthehangerfromherfriend,holdingthedressuptoherbodyinthemirror,andsmiledinapproval “Itreallyis!” sheagreed,herfacebeamingwithdelight
“Benisgoingtofliphislidwhenheseesyoutonight!”
