Country Lightning

Chapter 3

CJ and Jillian arrived at Salt River Fields in plenty of time for the start of the Diamondbacks vs Colorado Rockies Cactus League game. The award-winning ballpark was the first spring training facility to be built on Native American lands.

Jillian was more excited about this baseball game than she had been about any other she’d ever been to, which had a whole lot to do with CJ rather than the game.

It was a beautiful March evening, but it was still early enough in the season that it would get chilly as the team played well into the night. Jillian wore a Sedona-red Diamondbacks team jacket over a long-sleeved black team T-shirt and Levis. She wore her hair in a long ponytail.

CJ looked as sexy as ever in a jean jacket over a red T-shirt and Wranglers, which fit his ass snugly. Jillian had had the opportunity to check it out on more than one occasion. He wore a black Diamondbacks ball cap instead of his Stetson.

The atmosphere was electric as they made their way into the stadium. CJ handed over the tickets at the gate.

He smiled down at her as they walked into the park. “Are you ready for some baseball?”

She grinned back at him. “You bet.”

As CJ escorted her inside, she looked toward the field where players warmed up. The excitement in the air energized her, making her feel like she was buzzing with excitement from head to toe.

They made their way to their section, the noise growing louder. Smells of hot dogs, popcorn, and beer greeted her nose, and her stomach growled.

The stadium was packed with enthusiastic fans in a sea of red—it looked like it was going to be a full house.

“These are amazing seats.” Jillian’s eyes widened as she plopped into hers. “We’re practically behind home plate.”

“Rich told me they were some of the best in the house.” CJ slid into the seat beside her. “He wasn’t kidding.”

“I’ve never been so close to the field, much less home plate.” She watched a pitcher warm up with a catcher. The speed of the pitches amazed her.

She looked up at the clear blue above and the streaks of yellow and pink on the horizon as the sun lowered in the sky.

CJ leaned closer. “How does a hot dog and beer sound?”

“The greasier the better.” She flashed him a grin. “There’s nothing like a hot dog at a baseball game, and it’s just about the only time I like to drink beer.”

“I’ll be right back.” CJ got to his feet, eased past the two men on the right, and stepped into the aisle.

Jillian drank in the excitement and enthusiasm around her. She’d always loved baseball, while her brothers and Haylee were all big football fans. Only Leeann shared her passion for the game.

She couldn’t help but admire how the men looked in their uniforms, especially how they fit their backsides. CJ definitely gave that view a run for the money.

A group of rowdy young men behind their seats were overly loud above the noise of the crowd. She cast a glance over her shoulder and saw they wore fraternity jerseys and Arizona State University ballcaps. No doubt frat boys from ASU. She didn’t think she’d mind their shouts and ridiculously lewd laughter as long as they didn’t get too obnoxious. But it wouldn’t damper her enjoyment of the game even if they did.

She turned her attention back to the field. A strong, cool breeze caressed her face, and flags around the park snapped in the wind.

CJ returned with two beers and two hotdogs and sat beside her again. He offered over her share, and she gratefully took them from him.

“I’m starving.” She unwrapped her meal in her lap with one hand while she held the beer in the other. “I’ve been looking forward to a hot dog all day. Baseball games are the best place to eat them.”

While waiting for the game to begin, they munched their meal and emptied their beer cups. The alcohol gave her a pleasantly warm feeling inside.

They stood for the National Anthem, and CJ took off his hat. With her hand over her heart, Jillian looked at the Stars and Stripes and listened to the powerful words. She didn’t have the vocal range for the entire song, but she sang along anyway.

When the anthem was over, she cheered with the crowd and settled into her seat, and CJ put his hat on again and joined her.

She turned her gaze on him. “Batter up.”

He grinned, then she focused on the field.

They became absorbed in the action, which started off at a fast pace, with the Rockies going down with three strikeouts in the top of the first inning.

The Diamondbacks were the home team. In the bottom of the first, the bases loaded, one of their star players hit a ball out into center field. The player for the Rockies dropped the ball, and it was a triple play, the batter making it to third base.

Jillian jumped up and cheered as loudly as the rowdy guys behind them. She looked over her shoulder at CJ. “Did you see that?”

He grinned and shouted, “Sure did,” over the noise. “That was awesome.”

She sat again, and CJ took her hand and squeezed it. The feel of his grip drew her attention from the game to him. His hand felt warm and comfortable over hers, and it sent tingles throughout her. She met his gaze, and he gave her a sexy little grin that made her tummy swoop.

The game continued with the Diamondbacks and the Rockies neck and neck. Jillian was up and down in her seat with every hit when the Diamondbacks were up to bat, or every catch when they were in the outfield.

She always found it thrilling to see the players up close and personal, and today was no exception, especially from their view behind home plate. She admired the sheer talent and athleticism of the players.

CJ’s enthusiasm matched hers throughout the game, and she couldn’t help but feel an even stronger attraction to him through their shared experience. She liked his easy-going, down-to-earth nature but also his passion as he immersed himself in the moment.

During the seventh-inning stretch, he bought popcorn and sodas, along with a large package of peanut MMs. The fresh air had stimulated her appetite, and she devoured her share.

Soon, the players were back on the field. It had grown chilly, and she was glad for her jacket. CJ warmed her even more when he draped his arm around her shoulders.

At the top of the ninth, Diamondbacks led by four. The Rockies had the bases loaded with what could be the tying runs.

The next batter hit a pop fly for an easy out and the win.

Jillian and CJ jumped to their feet, clapping and shouting as the fans erupted into cheers, the music pounding out along with the enthusiastic crowd. Jillian bounced up and down on her toes as she applauded. CJ let out a whistle, and she grinned up at him.

They high-fived the frat boys, and Jillian laughed at their enthusiasm.

Her heart pounded, and her blood sang. “This was the best game I’ve seen in a long time.”

She faced him, and he rested one hand on her hip. “I agree, and I’ve never enjoyed a game more, and that’s because I’ve spent it with you.”

Warmth flushed over her, beyond the perspiration rolling down the center of her spine from jumping up and down with the thrill of the game.

“I feel the same way.” She smiled. “Your company made all the difference.”

They made their way out of the stadium, the energy of the game following them into the parking lot lit by streetlights.

CJ shortened his strides so that she could keep up with him. “I’ve had a wonderful time.”

He rested his arm around her shoulders. “Do you want to stop somewhere for a drink, or do you need to get home?”

She didn’t want the night to end.

“I’m ready for more.” She leaned into his side. “What do you say to going back to King Creek to Mickey’s?”

He smiled down at her and squeezed her lightly to him. “Great idea.”

CJ helped her into his truck and then jogged around the front to climb into his own side. The engine came to life, and they set off for King Creek.

They chatted about the game, going over the plays.

She cut her gaze to him, her ponytail falling over her shoulder to rest above her breast. “I’m thoroughly spoiled now by our great view.”

“We’ll have to do it again.” He kept his gaze focused on the highway leading to their hometown. He glanced at her and smiled. “Not sure about getting seats that good next time.”

“I’d love that.” She grinned. “I can live with sitting anywhere in the stands.”

It wasn’t too far back to King Creek. The drive went by quickly with their nonstop chatter, still hyped with excitement from the game.

He pulled the truck into the parking lot of Mickey’s Bar Grill.

“We’re here already?” She looked at the entrance to the bar. “That went by fast.”

CJ opened his door, and country music poured in. “Sounds like it’s hopping.”

She waited for him to open her door and took his hand as he helped her out. She loved the feel of his hand wrapped around hers.

A little voice at the back of her mind tried to interfere with her enjoyment, telling her it wouldn’t last. He couldn’t be as wonderful as she thought he was—she had such a bad record in the character judgment department that she should probably pull back some.

She pushed those thoughts aside for now, determined to have fun the rest of the night.

It occurred to her for the first time that they might run into any number of her family members. It probably wasn’t the best place to get in any alone time with CJ. But, maybe that was a good thing.

He escorted her to the entrance, his hand on her jacket, pressing against her lower back. She loved how he did that, escorting her with a firm touch.

She saw a couple of people she knew. She didn’t pause to chat, instead giving a little wave, and CJ nodded in greeting.

Two couples stood by the railings on either side of the porch. Music pounded from inside the walls, and when CJ opened the door, a loud but catchy tune met them.

“Oh, good.” She smiled at CJ. “A live band. I forgot there would be one since it’s Saturday night.” She gestured to the two men and two women performing on the small stage across the room. “Desert Stars is one of my favorite bands.”

“I haven’t been in Mickey’s since I returned from the service.” He appeared interested as he looked at the band. “I’ve never heard this band, but they”re good.”

“It’s too hot in here for a jacket.” She shrugged out of it, and CJ helped her. He held it over his arm.

The room, which was hot from all the bodies in the packed bar, was filled with the scents of hamburgers, fries, and beer.

Jillian spotted her sister, Haylee, and Tyson at a table for four with two empty seats.

She tugged at CJ’s hand and nodded in their direction. “We can sit with my sister and her husband.”

He smiled. “Lead the way.”

She moved in front of him, and he followed her to the table. When they reached it, Haylee and Tyson stood.

After Jillian hugged her sister, she turned to CJ. “You might not remember my baby sister, Haylee, or her husband, Tyson Donovan.”

She turned to the pair and gestured to CJ. “This is CJ Jameson, who used to hang out with Carter and Colt when we were kids.”

CJ held out his hand. “It’s a pleasure, Haylee. You were just a little thing the last time I saw you.”

She took his hand and smiled. “I don’t remember you, but if you were in school with our oldest brothers, I’m not surprised.”

Haylee released her grip, and CJ turned to Tyson and shook his hand. “You were friends with the younger McLeod boys. It’s good to see you.”

Tyson smiled, his brilliant blue eyes crinkling at the corners. “Been a long time.”

CJ pulled out Jillian’s chair for her as Tyson and Haylee sat. CJ took off his jacket before putting his and Jillian’s on the back of their chairs. He sat and scooted up to the table.

The server, Janice, swept in and gave a couple of menus to CJ and Jillian before asking what they’d like to drink. They both ordered a beer, and she left them to make their meal selections.

“We had hotdogs at the park, but that was ages ago.” Jillian set her menu to the side. “I know what I want. I’ve been dying for a plate of their nachos.”

CJ skimmed his and set it down. “Chili fries for me.”

Haylee folded her arms on the surface and leaned forward. “Leeann called to chat and told me you two were going to a spring training game.”

Jillian wasn’t surprised Leeann had filled Haylee in. She would have been more surprised if she hadn’t.

“The game was fantastic.” Jillian grinned. “The Diamondbacks pulled off a great win.”

“They should have a good year during the regular season.” CJ took off his ball cap and ruffled his hair before putting it on again. “They’re sure looking good already.”

“Haylee and Tyson went to Europe for their honeymoon several months ago,” Jillian said. “I’m in complete envy.”

“It was wooonderful.” Haylee gave a sigh of pleasure. “It was the best trip of my life.”

“Of ours.” Tyson put his arm around Haylee’s shoulder. “It was pretty damned incredible.”

The server returned and took their orders. Jillian had known Janice since she started at Mickey’s.

When Janice left, Haylee chatted about their time in London and Paris, and their cruise down the River Seine. Jillian had heard most of it before but didn’t mind listening again. Her sister was so excited, so bubbly about it still, even though they came back months ago.

Jillian asked her questions about things she didn’t remember Haylee talking about before. Her sister was delighted to share more, and Tyson put in his two cents.

When there was a lull in the conversation, Jillian said, “CJ just got out of the service.”

“What branch?” Tyson asked.

The server returned with their beers, giving Jillian hers and CJ taking his before he answered. “I served in the Air Force for the past twelve years.”

Tyson looked at CJ with interest. “I was an MP in the Army for a couple of years, then came back to go into ranching.”

Haylee cocked her head. “What did you do in the service, CJ?”

“I was a Pararescue Specialist.” CJ shrugged. “A parachuting accident ended my military career, so that’s how I ended up in King Creek again.”

“Welcome back.” Haylee smiled at CJ, and he returned it.

She turned to Jillian. “How’s everything going at the shop?”

Jillian groaned. “I’m excited about opening day, but at the same time, I’m scared to death.”

“The store will be so successful.” Haylee’s eyes sparkled. “King Creek has needed a florist forever.”

“I’m hoping our town can support a flower shop.” Jillian couldn’t help but feel a nervous flutter in her belly. “Although I did some market research, and with customers from surrounding towns, I think it can take off.”

“It will.” Tyson’s affirmation boosted Jillian’s confidence. He had a thriving ranch and another LLC as well. “King Creek’s residents are known for supporting local businesses.”

“Tyson should know.” Haylee smiled at her husband. “The jerky company he purchased last year has been growing like crazy.”

“That has a lot to do with local and regional buyers.” He looked at Jillian. “From everything I know about you, Jillian you can take your business far, no doubt about it.”

Her heart palpitated from an overwhelming combination of excitement and fear, which had pretty much been how she’d felt since she made the decision to start her own business.

The band struck up their version of a popular Kade Fields slow tune. Tyson pushed back his chair and held out his hand to Haylee. “Hon, they’re playing our song.”

She smiled up at him, her face shining with the love she felt for her husband, and Jillian felt a twinge of envy, along with happiness that her sister had found someone she loved. Haylee took his hand, and he drew her to her feet.

Tyson looked from Jillian to CJ. “Excuse us.”

CJ raised his beer in acknowledgment, and Jillian smiled. CJ knocked back the rest of his drink and thumped the bottle on the tabletop.

As the pair disappeared onto the dance floor crowd, Janice returned with their meals. “Sorry for the delay.” She set a plate of nachos in front of Jillian and gave the chili fries to CJ. “This band packs them in.” She took CJ’s empty bottle and eyed Jill’s, which was half full. “Are you ready for another?”

“Yes, ma’am.” CJ gave a nod. “Thank you kindly.”

“Still working on mine,” Jillian said.

“Be right back.” Janice made her way to the bar.

Jillian scooped a bit of barbacoa beef, refried beans, and salsa onto a chip and popped it into her mouth. She crunched and gave a satisfied sigh when she finished the bite. “This is my favorite thing to order here.”

CJ looked like he was enjoying his chili fries. “Good stuff.”

They devoured their food, and CJ pushed away his empty plate while Jillian was still working on hers. She pointed to her nachos. “There’s too much for me to finish. Help a girl out.”

He chuckled. “Don’t mind if I do.” He put some on his plate and started in on them.

“Tell me about your ranch.” Jillian studied CJ. “I imagine you have cattle and horses.”

CJ let out a long breath, his expression clouding. “That’s what should be on my place.” He shook his head. “Mom hired a foreman to take care of business while she was ill. He took her to the cleaners instead.”

Jillian’s eyes widened. “What happened?”

CJ’s mouth tightened into a thin line. “He sold off all the assets, from livestock to ranching equipment, and pocketed the proceeds. Thankfully, he didn’t have access to Mom’s bank accounts, or likely that would all be gone, too.”

“That’s terrible.” Jillian studied his darkened eyes. “I’m so sorry to hear that.”

He blew out his breath again and shook his head. “I hired a private investigator to track him down, but no luck. He’s long gone. Probably living it up in Cancun.”

She placed her hand over his on the tabletop. “I’m sorry,” she said again.

His expression relaxed. “I never could back down from a challenge, so I’m ready to work my ass off to get my ranch up and running again.” He grimaced. “Pardon my language.”

Jillian grinned. “You don’t grow up with a houseful of men without hearing your share of cuss words. Don’t worry about it—there’s probably nothing that would come out of your mouth that I haven’t heard before.”

He flashed her a smile. “I’ll do my best to curb my language.”

“What’s next?” She cocked her head. “For your ranch, I mean.”

He raised his ballcap and pushed his fingers through his hair before tugging his hat on again. “I’m looking into buying a couple of horses to start with, and I’ll be visiting auctions to build my herd.” He leaned back in his chair. “I chatted with Carter last night, and I’m meeting with him tomorrow to take a look at one of his mares. Bear gave me a couple of breeder names, so I’m checking out some Australian shepherd puppies after I leave Carter’s place.”

“Puppies?” Jillian perked up. “Aussie puppies are so cute.”

He held her gaze. “It would be great to have you come along if you’d like to go with me.”

“I’d love to.” She beamed. “One of these days, when I have a house of my own, I’d like to get a dog. I was thinking of visiting rescue shelters.”

He nodded. “That’s a good option. A cattle dog is not likely to be found at a rescue shelter, so I’m going with a breeder, and it would be difficult to train most rescues to herd cattle.”

“I think you’re right.” Jillian smiled. “I might start with a cat first since they tend to be more independent. I’ll know when the time comes.” She considered it for a moment. “Although, with owning my own business, I could bring a well-trained dog to work with me.”

CJ gave a nod. “I told Carter I’d be at his place at 9:00 a.m., so I’d like to pick you up around 8:40.”

“Sounds good to me.” She looked at Haylee, who was starting a two-step dance with Tyson.

Jillian glanced back at CJ, who pushed back his chair and stood. He held out his hand. “Would you like to dance?”

“Yes.” She got to her feet, slid her hand into his, and he led her onto the floor.

They two-stepped to the lively tune, Jillian thoroughly enjoying herself. CJ was a great dancer, but she could hold her own.

By the time they finished their second fast-paced dance, Jillian was out of breath and laughing from the sheer fun of it.

A slow tune started up, and CJ took both her hands in his. “One more?”

She tipped her head back to meet his gaze. He was so very tall and so darn good-looking. “Yes.”

He brought her into his arms, and she slid her hands to his shoulders. He kept just enough distance between their bodies to be a gentleman.

They moved in a slow circle, and she felt his heat despite the inches between them. Screw this, went through her mind, and she fitted her body against his.

He made a low, throaty sound and settled his chin on the top of her head as he wrapped his arms more securely around her. She rested her head on his chest and sighed. It felt so perfect being in his embrace as she inhaled his earthy scent into her lungs.

A sigh of pleasure escaped her, and she smiled to herself.

Too soon, the song ended, but CJ didn’t release her right away. When he did, she tipped her head back, and he gave her a slow, sexy grin that stole her breath. She swallowed, and he took her by the hand and led her back to their table.

Tyson helped Haylee into her coat as Jillian and CJ arrived.

Haylee pulled her hair out of the collar. “I’m beat. We’re heading home.” She hugged Jillian and whispered into her ear. “I like him.”

“Me, too.” Jillian hugged her back. “Good night.”

Tyson told them both good night, and then he escorted Haylee through the front entrance.

Jillian looked at CJ and smiled. “It’s been a long day.”

He nodded. “I’ll get you home so you can climb into bed.”

CJ took cash from his wallet and handed it to their server with the bill. Jillian watched the play of his muscles in his forearm and wondered how the rest of him looked—totally yummy, no doubt.

He grabbed Jillian’s jacket off the back of her chair and held it up so that she could slip into it. She loved the confidence in his motions. He put on his own, then gripped her hand and led her out of the bar.

The night air caused her to shiver, and he draped his arm around her shoulders. She wasn’t sure if it was that or just being so close to him that warmed her. Gravel crunched beneath their shoes as they walked toward his truck, which glowed beneath the parking lot light.

He paused behind the truck and looked up at the stars, and she did as well. “I missed seeing the stars like you can in King Creek.”

A shooting star blazed a trail across the sky before winking out. He reached for her hand and gripped it. “Make a wish.”

She continued staring up at the sky, wondering what she should wish for. She was achieving a dream and opening her own flower shop. She had a wonderful family and felt blessed to have overall had a good life.

“I wish for my business to get off to a great start.” She cut her gaze from the sky to him. “I really don’t need anything else. It’s not perfect, but I have a great life.”

He rested his arm around her shoulders again. “From what I’ve gotten to know about you, I have a good feeling that your wish is bound to come true.”

Jillian studied his strong features. “What did you wish for?”

CJ shifted his attention back to the sky. “I’d like to get my ranch operational again. But it’s going to take a lot more than a wish to make that happen.”

“If anyone can do it, you can.” She was more certain of that than she could explain.

“I’d like to think you’re right.” He squeezed her to him. “Let’s get you out of the cold, and I’ll take you home.”

He helped her into the truck, then got in his side and started the engine. Once they were on the road, he reached for her hand and gripped it on the center console. It wasn’t far to her home, and it was a quiet, comfortable silence between them.

When they reached her home and he had helped her out, they walked past the bicycle mailbox Haylee had made an age ago and headed up the steps. The stairs and porch creaked in the otherwise silent night.

When they stood in front of her door, she turned to face him. “Would you like to come in? Leeann’s home, but she wouldn’t mind.”

He gave a slow shake of his head. “It’s late, and I’d better let you get to bed.” He reached up and brushed hair from her cheek. “I had a great time with you.”

Words stuck in her throat, but she finally got them out. “I enjoyed myself, too.”

He pressed his lips to her forehead, and she caught her breath. He looked into her eyes. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Good night.” The words came out in a near whisper.

“Sweet dreams.” He gave her his sexy smile that melted her before he turned away and walked down the steps.

She watched him go, not wanting him to leave. But she’d see him in the morning—she had that to look forward to.

At her gate, he looked back. “Go on in now so that I know you’re safely behind your locked door.”

She smiled. “This is King Creek.”

“I’m not leaving until you do it.” His voice sounded teasing, but she knew he meant it.

She opened the squeaky screen door, then unlocked and opened her front door, pausing to wave before she walked in and shut it behind her.

For a moment, she stood and listened, hearing the gate squeak then close behind him.

It had been an exhilarating day. She couldn’t wait for tomorrow and spending a lot more time with CJ.