CHAPTER TEN
“W ell, well, well,” I drawl and straighten off the building that had been propping me up. “Sure is fancy bumping into you on Main Street again. How many Saturdays in a row does this make?”
Cassidy laughs, her eyes rolling skyward as she steps down from her truck. “As if you’re not counting.”
“Humor me.”
Four fingers wiggle at me. “Are we celebrating? Other than this secretive party that starts at noon.”
“We have time to honor our anniversary first.”
I admire the view as she struts toward me. Another pair of heavily tooled cowboy boots cushion her feet, but those barely earn a passing glance. It’s the one-piece denim contraption barely concealing her curves that has my dick twitching. The snug material is a combo of shorts and a sleeveless shirt. My mouth goes dry as I continue to gawk. Frayed bottoms end just below her ass and the buttons down the front don’t start until well beyond her cleavage. That plunging neckline strikes a match to my insatiable hunger. I bite my fist and growl.
“Like what you see?” She spins in a slow circle.
“Fuck my friends. Tell me how to get that thing off you and we’ll have some real fun.”
“It’s complicated,” she purrs.
“I’m not afraid of a challenge, and I’ll sweeten the pot. These are for you.” I reveal the sunflowers from behind my back, which she immediately accepts. “And this is for me.”
She smiles when I cradle her chin between my thumb and forefinger to lock our lips in a chaste peck. “All I had to do was show up? I’ll thank you extra for that.”
My groan slips into her mouth as she opens for me, taking the kiss to an elevated public display of affection. “Damn, beauty. You’re the gift that keeps on giving.”
“Makes sense since it feels like a special occasion whenever you’re around.” She tucks the sunflowers into her purse and then clutches the front of my shirt, tugging me into a tight embrace I never want to leave.
I tremble when her tongue slides along mine. “Did you miss me?”
“Yes,” she freely admits.
“Love hearing that.”
“Yes, yes, yes,” she chants.
My chuckle interrupts our heated exchange. “Careful or you’ll attract a crowd.”
Cassidy drifts her nose along my stubbled jaw, inhaling me on an audible breath. “You do that on your own, trouble. I’m surprised you didn’t announce my arrival to the entire town.”
“Thought about it. I want everyone to assume you’re mine.”
“Afraid someone else will catch my eye?”
“Only every day.”
Her laugh is vibrant as she pats my chest, smoothing the wrinkles she created. “You have nothing to worry about.”
I cinch an arm around her waist, hauling her against me. “Does that mean you’re agreeing to be mine?”
Not that she has to admit it aloud. The truth is that Cassidy has been mine since she kissed me when we were kids. But I’ll let her believe whatever she wants. For now.
She flutters her lashes. “It’s a bit early for labels, hmm?”
“Not according to your children, and I respect their opinions.”
Her grin spreads. “Until they disagree with you.”
I scoff. “That’s not gonna happen. They love me.”
“Oh, yes. What was I thinking? Kids always behave and go along with whatever you say is best.”
“Your sarcasm clashes with my optimism,” I grumble.
“If it makes you feel better, you’ve totally won them over. Charlie and Kenzie haven’t stopped talking about you or your pony rides.”
A pressure I didn’t realize was in my chest suddenly loosens. “The feeling is mutual.”
She hums. “Your texts were cute too.”
“Had to make sure I’m never far from your mind. I almost drove to your house a dozen times this week, but I didn’t want to crowd you.”
Her eyes sparkle. “Since when?”
My palms roam along her sides, as if offering comfort on their own. “I see how much you have going on. The moments you sacrifice for me are already a strain on you. Like right now, I’m sure there are a million other things you’d rather be doing.”
Cassidy cuddles into me. “I’m exactly where I want to be.”
“On the same page as me,” I murmur into her hair.
Her gaze latches onto mine. That unwavering attention feels bottomless. “I had every intention of making this a one and done.”
“Oh?” Paisley’s words haunt me, the truth clanging against my skull. “But now?”
“I’ve realized you might be irresistible. Charlie and Kenzie more than likely influenced my decision.” She pulls away slightly and goes quiet for a moment, studying me closely. “The twins are your biggest fans. Please don’t take that for granted.”
I flinch. “You think I could do that to them? Or you, for that matter?”
“No, but shit happens. Just consider their feelings before acting like a dick.” She kissesany chance of an argument off my lips.
I grunt into her distraction method. “What’s best for you and your kids is my top priority. I hope you trust me enough to believe that.”
She’s already nodding. “It was mostly a precaution.”
“Completely unnecessary.” The start of our conversation circles back to me while we’re discussing the kiddos. “Where were Charlie and Kenzie that first Saturday we saw each other? If my math is mathing correctly, they should’ve been with you that weekend.”
“Somebody is sensing a pattern,” she laughs. “Shawn and I switch if there’s something going on that the kids should be part of, or a conflict that’s better for them to avoid. The flip flop is frequent, so good luck keeping track.”
My pulse drums faster. “Am I allowed to ask about him?”
“I’m shocked you haven’t already,” she guffaws.
“It’s been a hard-fought battle.”
Cassidy quirks a brow and shrugs. “I commend your patience, but there’s not much to tell. We were little more than fuck buddies when I got pregnant. Shawn was really involved and there for me, but it was obvious we weren’t a love match. Thankfully we get along and respect each other. That’s made co-parenting a breeze.”
“Huh,” I say. “That sounds very… civil.”
“It is. We’ve got a good system. No jealously or animosity. Shawn is married to a lovely woman named Pam and they have a baby girl. The twins already told him about you.” Her tone is nonchalant like this is a normal conversation, and it probably is for her.
But my blood pressure is trapped on a rollercoaster. “He’s okay with that?”
She blinks. “Yeah, why wouldn’t he be?”
“I dunno.” And I really don’t. This is a situation I’m completely unfamiliar with.
“You’ll meet him eventually, if this goes anywhere serious.” She motions between us.
“Isn’t it already?”
Cassidy’s grin softens. “Maybe? I like you a lot and we’re having fun, but I’m not expecting a commitment. This isn’t me sending mixed signals or playing games. I’m realistic. There’s no spare time for romance. My responsibilities and priorities come first, always.”
“I feel like you’ve rehearsed that speech. Didn’t we already tuck this under the covers?” We share a laugh but hers sobers much faster than mine. “I’ll settle for whatever you’re willing to give me.”
“But you shouldn’t have to, Drake. You’re sexy and rich and hung like a bedazzled horse. Why would you want to saddle yourself to a single mom with no spare time and spends her days shoveling shit?”
“Don’t sell yourself short,” I chide. “Don’t act like you’re not the woman I’ve been dreaming to find my entire life. Don’t make your situation sound like a burden to me. It couldn’t be further from the truth. You’re the one for me and your kids are an added bonus. Like you said earlier, I’m exactly where I want to be.”
“Damn,” she chokes. “That’s a great speech.”
“It’s my truth. I’m already yours. Can’t you see that?” My thumb drifts along her upturned jaw.
She leans into my touch when I tuck loose hair behind her ear. “Logic and common sense suggest you’re too good to be true.”
“What do your heart and gut think?”
“That you’d rather cause yourself pain than hurt me intentionally. You’re the most considerate, dependable man I’ve ever met. Not once, but twice.”
“I’ll accept that answer,” I chuckle.
Cassidy bites her bottom lip as a blush blooms across her freckled cheeks. “I should be counting my lucky stars that you even glance in my direction.”
My lips slant into a smirk. “I’m the lucky one.”
“We don’t have to lie to ourselves,” she laughs.
“Believe in me, beauty. I’ll never give you a reason to doubt me.”
Her throat works with a thick swallow. “I trust you, trouble.”
“There we go.” My mouth brushes against hers. “I look forward to you falling in crazy extreme, unconditional love with me, Cassidy Brooks.”
“My goodness.” She fans her face. “You wear confidence like a favorite outfit.”
“It’s easy to feel invincible when I have the prettiest woman in my arms.” My grasp on her wanders and latches onto her hips. I can’t stop touching her, but she doesn’t seem to mind.
“Such a line.” Cassidy cuddles closer, returning my affection while basking in our chemistry.
“It’s more than fluffy words and I’ll prove it. My friends will too. Let’s go meet them.” I slide her fingers between mine and turn in the direction that leads to Ridge’s house.
She glances at our clasped palms, clutching tighter to me. “This is nice. I can’t remember the last time I held someone’s hand just for the simple pleasure of it.”
“It’s the little things that allow intimacy and companionship to thrive in a relationship. Solid foundation.”
“I think it’s working already. Oh!” Without releasing me, Cassidy whips out a key fob and locks her truck. “Before I forget.”
“Good call.” I admire her Ford pickup that puts mine to shame. “That’s quite the beast you’re driving. What’re you using all that horsepower for?”
“Nothing much,” she quips. “I just really like the vibrations from such a big motor. It really hits the spot.”
I gulp, now imaging the fiery redhead in the throes of passion while swerving along a back country road. “That stick shift handles your needs.”
“Mine is automatic. Push start. Slides into gear smoothly. Gets me there faster. No hassle with a third pedal.”
“There’s still a crank shaft,” I croak.
Her laughter is a pleasant chime in the wind. “I don’t even know what that does.”
My brows wiggle. “Keep me around and find out.”
“Trouble, trouble,” she sighs. “Remind me why we had to park in town?”
“Ridge would know something’s up if he saw a bunch of cars near his place, especially ones he recognizes. That would ruin the surprise.”
Cassidy nods. “Smart. Do you live nearby?”
It could be considered odd that she doesn’t already know, but her responsibilities at Greener Pastures demand that she stays onsite. “Not close enough to walk from there.”
“I’m curious where home is for you,” she muses.
Wherever she is, but it’s too soon for that. “You’ve got a lot happening on your property. There’s nothing to worry about at mine. We’ll swing by someday when it’s convenient.”
“Mr. Granger?” A man I don’t recognize waves, pausing on the sidewalk. “Ah, I thought that was you. I’m Alan, a sales consultant for Sutherland Homes.”
Cassidy visibly stiffens beside me, but doesn’t speak.
“Nice to meet you,” I say and shake Alan’s proffered hand.
“We’re grateful for your investment toward our construction plans. The contact information for Mr. Kenner is also much appreciated. Thanks to you, we’re one step closer to breaking ground.” He beams at me.
“Glad we found a solution.”
The woman beside me gasps and untangles her fingers from mine. I reach to reclaim her palm but she crosses her arms. My smile dies in a tragic flatline.
Alan reads the mood and resumes his stroll. “Well, I’ll leave you to it. Just wanted to say a quick hello and let you know we’re indebted to you. Please give us a call if you’d like to collaborate again in the future.”
I barely hear him or his retreating footsteps. My focus is trained on Cassidy and the hurt shimmering in her eyes. She begins backing away without a word.
“Hey, where are you going?” I clasp her arm.
She rips herself from my hold. “Don’t touch me.”
My frown is met with a wounded expression. “What’s wrong, beauty?”
Her eyes narrow into daggers. “The fact you even have to ask is incredibly insulting.”
“Why are you mad?”
A lone tear slips free from her glare, slicing into me with lethal precision. “How could you?”
“I’m lost.”
“Seriously?” She scoffs and betrayal distorts her beautiful face into a pinched mask. “What did I just say about acting like a dick? And to think, my heart was opening to you.”
I blanch. “How am I acting like a dick?”
Her lips press into a firm line. “I can’t believe you’d willingly work with that company.”
I hold up a hand. “To be fair, I didn’t know who they were until you told me.”
“I didn’t tell you their name,” she shoots back.
My hands swat at the sudden space separating us. “But it wasn’t difficult to connect the dots. Process of elimination.”
Another tear traces her freckled cheek. “You’re unbelievable.”
“Does it help to hear that I gave them money to protect you?”
“Are you kidding me? No, never. Not even a little bit.”
I cringe. “Really?”
“Yes, really. Those people are ruthless predators. Truly awful. Preying on those they believe are weak. They’re trying to destroy my home. The legacy my grandmother built and passed down to me. How could you support them?” The raw emotion cutting from her voice stabs me in the gut.
I nearly double over. “It’s not what you think.”
“How can it be anything else? You invested in their plans to turn farm country into mass-produced houses.”
A tight knot forms in my throat. “Only to get them away from you.”
“And harass some other unsuspecting landowner? How nice.” She rolls her watery eyes.
“Not quite. Robert Kenner is very willing to sell.”
“That’s beside the point. They’ve made my life miserable. I detest everything about them and now you’re their partner.”
“But I did it for you,” I try again.
“You shouldn’t have.” Her dry tone is almost comical.
“Do you want me to kill the deal?”
“Yes,” she says without pause. But then she sighs. “If that Robert guy wants to sell his property, it’s not my business. But I don’t like that you’re involved with Sutherland Homes.”
“It’s not ideal, but they agreed to stop bothering you and your family.”
“Yeah right,” she scoffs. “For how long?”
“Indefinitely.”
She pauses, a breeze kicking up her wildflower scent. “How much did you give them?”
“Less than my limit.”
“Is this bullshit bargain worth selling your soul to the devil?”
The urge to touch her lifts my arm, but I drop the limb seconds later. “Your happiness means everything to me, beauty. That’s why I did this. You haven’t heard from them in over two weeks, right?”
“I figured they were on vacation,” she grumbles. “What’s to stop them from coming after us again?”
“Me.”
She tugs at her hair. “You’ll fund them to build elsewhere until you’re broke.”
I shrug. “If that’s what it takes for you to be left in peace.”
Cassidy hangs her head. “You should’ve talked to me first.”
“But then you would’ve convinced me not to invest.”
“Exactly! It’s a shitty position you’ve put me in.” She bites the inside of her cheek, avoiding my gaze. “I wish you hadn’t paid them.”
“Will you forgive me?” I reach for her fingers, threading the tips with mine.
“It’s hard not to. Your intentions were decent. Not another penny, okay?”
“But—”
“No, they don’t deserve it. We can get rid of them the old-fashioned way.”
“Like feed them to the pigs?”
She laughs, which is a great sign. “Ignore them until they lose interest.”
My smirk makes a miraculous comeback. “Obviously, I was just testing you.”
“Uh-huh, I’m still not pleased about this. You’re earning your nickname.” Cassidy clucks her tongue.
“Will you let me make it up to you?” I pull her flush against me, wrapping us in a hug that soothes the ache.
She rests her chin on my sternum, fluttering her lashes. “How might you do that?”
“I can be very creative and thorough.” A peek at my watch spurs me into action. “But first, we need to hustle or we’ll miss the surprise.”
The amused curve lifting her mouth flips upside down. “You should go without me. I’m not the best company right now.”
“What? No way. You can’t ditch me after our first official fight as a couple. I need to grovel until you agree to makeup sex.”
She snorts. “Good luck with that.”
“It’s going to be an afternoon to remember. I’ll make it worth your while,” I vow. “You agreed to believe in me.”
“Mhmm, and then look what happened.”
“That was a tiny detour, but we’re back on track.”
“It isn’t that simple. I should probably be alone. My feelings are… complicated and conflicted.”
Something sharp stabs my chest. “About me?”
“We’ve moved really fast, and I’ll accept the blame for that. Space might be a good idea. It’s a jumble up there.” Cassidy taps at her temple.
“Is that what you really want?” If it is, I’ll quit pushing. At least until tomorrow.
She sniffs and drops her gaze. “No.”
“You’ll let me fix this? Starting now?”
“That doesn’t seem right.” A deep furrow creases her forehead. “Am I overreacting?”
“Nope, I crossed a line. You’re justified in getting upset. Your feelings are valid. I hear you and I’m sorry.”
“But you didn’t know how much this would hurt me.”
“I do now. I’m listening. It’s a learning curve. We’re communicating and working through it.” I tuck a bent knuckle under her chin. “Don’t give up on me yet.”
Cassidy melts into me. “Not sure I could if I tried.”
“Does that mean you’re still my date for this shindig?”
“Maybe…”
“Don’t make me toss you over my shoulder.”
“You wouldn’t dare.”
“Do you doubt me and my devotion to our relationship?” I squat and lift her off the ground.
Cassidy squeals, wiggling in my grip. “Okay, fine. I’ll go with you.”
“Damn straight.” I lower her feet to the sidewalk and snag her hand. “Stay beside me, beauty. Right where you belong.”