Chapter Thirteen
Jack awoke the next morning to sunlight streaming through the windows, its warmth easing him into consciousness. As he slowly blinked open his eyes, his glance drifted to the other side of the bed where Randi was still lost in her dreams, her soft breathing the only sound in the quiet room. Silently, so as not to disturb her, he slid from the bed, his bare feet padding lightly on the cool floor. He pulled on his well-worn sweatpants and grabbed a T-shirt from the nearby chair as he made his way out the door.
The idea of freshly brewed coffee beckoned him urgently; he needed it more than anything at that very moment. As the steady drip of coffee filled his favorite ceramic cup with dark, steaming liquid, he dialed Sam on his phone, apologizing matter-of-factly for the slight delay. Sam’s voice on the other end was understanding, giving Jack peace of mind to continue his routine.
The thought of shaving tugged at his mind, but the allure of that invigorating cup of coffee held him firmly in place. A faint sound caught his attention. He turned to see Randi entering the kitchen, her bare feet padding softly on the tiled floor, and wearing one of his T-shirts that accentuated her figure.
“You sure look good in my shirt, but you look fantastic without it,” he teased.
“Are you going to work?” she inquired.
“I have to, baby,” he replied.
With a mischievous smile, she mused, “What am I supposed to do all day while you’re there?”
“Well, you could go horseback riding if you want. You can do anything you want. My home is yours,” he offered warmly. Advancing toward her, he wrapped his hands gently around her face and pressed a tender, lingering kiss to her lips.
“I suppose I could take a ride around your property,” she replied, her tone blending excitement with a hint of apprehension.
“It’s all fenced, so you’ll know exactly where you can and can’t go. Please be careful.” His voice softened with concern as he walked toward the living room. Reaching into a discreetly locked gun cabinet, he retrieved a compact gun before returning to the kitchen. Offering it to her, he said, “Here.”
Her brow creased as she shook her head gently. “I don’t want that,” she protested.
“Randi, sweetheart, it’s for your protection. If an animal comes close, shoot into the air. It will scare it away. They’re more afraid of you than you are of them,” he assured her.
“I highly doubt that,” she replied with a laugh as she accepted the firearm, noting its light build. “It’s light.”
“Yes, it’s a Ruger. Just remember, if you see any animals, fire a warning shot. But not straight above your head,” he cautioned.
“What do you mean?” she asked.
“The bullets that go straight up will come straight down,” he explained with a calm certainty.
Randi’s face shifted from skepticism to alarm as she gasped, “Oh, my! I certainly don’t want to get shot when they come back down.”
“People often don’t realize that when you shoot straight up, those bullets will eventually fall back to earth. Just fire a warning shot, aiming slightly to the side. An animal will run off,” Jack clarified.
“Okay. I think I’ll go for a ride later then. For now, I’m going to get a cup of coffee.”
Jack leaned in once more to kiss her temple. “Sure thing. I’m going to shave after I finish my coffee, then it’s off to work.” With that, he savored the final sips of his brew, carefully placing the cup into the sink before quietly leaving the kitchen to head toward the bathroom, to shave and change his clothes.
****
Watching him go, Randi let out a long, wistful sigh as she gazed after him. Deep inside, a part of her longed to open her shop and immerse herself in the lively, bustling rhythms of the day she adored. Yet she knew that keeping the doors closed meant sacrificing potential business. A thought that prickled her with regret even as she plotted her leisurely ride around the sprawling property.
When Jack reentered the sunlit kitchen, the familiar scent of his aftershave drifted toward her, instantly stirring memories. She moved toward him, wrapping her arms around his waist, and pressed soft kisses along the curve of his neck.
“You smell so good,” she murmured, her voice warm and inviting.
“You always do,” he replied with a playful smile. “I have to get going, sweetheart. Make yourself at home. And keep your phone handy.”
“I will,” she promised, her eyes twinkling. “Is there any particular horse I should take?”
“Any but mine,” he said, a touch of humor in his tone. “Zorro can be a little hard to handle, but the rest are gentle. Everything you need is in the tack room. Just be careful. Oh, and they all know commands by your knees.”
“Okay. I promise to be careful.”
“Good. Okay, baby, I really need to get going. Have a good day. I’ll see you this evening.” As he turned toward the door, he paused and glanced back with concern. “Do you want me to bring something home for dinner?”
“A pizza?”
“That sounds perfect. What do you like on it?”
“Pepperoni, onions, and mushrooms,” she answered, voice filled with anticipation.
“Mushrooms?” Jack teased with a mock shudder.
“Put them on half,” she replied with a mischievous grin.
“Will do.” He pressed his lips to hers in a gentle kiss. “I’ll talk to you later. Have a good day, sweetheart.”
“You too. Please be careful,” she pleaded softly.
“Always,” he assured her as he lifted his hat from the peg and placed it atop his head. Casting one last look her way, he stepped out the door and entered the garage.
Randi listened to the garage door groan upward and then heard the deep rumble of his SUV starting up. She quickly drifted from the kitchen to the living room, peeking out the window to watch his vehicle meander slowly down the driveway. As the vehicle disappeared into the distance, she sighed deeply and trudged back into the kitchen where her cup of coffee was just finishing its brew.
Once ready, she retrieved the steaming cup, pouring in just the right amount of sugar and milk before taking a sip. She leaned her hip against the countertop, savoring the bittersweet taste. A pang of frustration welled up inside her; she despised the thought of not opening her shop, especially during the busy tourist season when every moment closed meant a loss of business. Yet she reassured herself that safety still lay behind those closed doors, at least in theory.
Exhaling a deep, resigned sigh, Randi finished her last sip, carefully set the empty cup in the sink, and ambled toward the bedroom to change. Outside, the morning was radiant and filled with promise. After a quick change of clothes, she decided she would spend a few moments watching the chatter of the morning news before heading out for a ride, intent on catching the cooler morning air before the day grew too hot.
As she reached for the door, her phone vibrated insistently in her pocket. Pausing, she withdrew it with a smile upon seeing Maggie’s number flashing on the screen.
“Hi, Maggie,” she greeted warmly.
“Hey, Randi. Are you at the shop?” Maggie asked.
“Uh, no. I’m closed for a few days,” she explained, her tone tinged with weariness.
“Because of that man?” Maggie prodded gently.
“Yes,” Randi admitted.
“Oh, then I don’t suppose you’d want to meet for lunch?” Maggie suggested.
“I would, but I don’t have my vehicle,” Randi replied, a hint of frustration in her voice.
“I could pick you up. Vanna closed today since she and Grady went off to visit his parents, and she mentioned that we both needed a day or two off,” Maggie said with an amused chuckle. “I’m bored.”
“Oh, my Lord! I hear you on that. I was going to go for a horseback ride, but if you don’t mind coming out here to pick me up, I’d love to have lunch with you,” Randi responded.
“Wonderful! Give me the address and I’ll be there around eleven, if that works for you,” Maggie said.
“It does. Thank you so much, Maggie. I’ll see you later.”
“See you then,” Maggie concluded before the call ended.
After hanging up, Randi’s thoughts wandered momentarily to Jack, wondering how he would feel about her plans. Yet the lure of companionship was too strong; the idea of sitting in a lively crowd was far preferable to feeling isolated. Taking a deep, steadying breath, she called him.
“Miss me already?” his voice teased as soon as he answered, a playful warmth underlying his words.
“Of course,” she replied.
“Is there anything wrong?” he inquired with genuine concern.
“No. I just wanted to let you know that I’m going to lunch with Maggie—”
“No,” he interrupted sharply.
“Do not tell me no, John Gregory Lawrence. I will be bored out of my mind,” Randi insisted, her tone a blend of determination and amusement.
“You’ve barely been there, Miranda Jean. I don’t like it,” Jack countered, his voice edged with worry.
“I’ll be with her and we’ll be in a crowd of people. I am going to lunch. That’s settled,” she declared, leaving him momentarily speechless.
He mumbled something indecipherable, and she pressed, “What?”
“Nothing,” he sighed over the line. “Fine, but you be damn careful.”
“Yes, sir,” she snapped playfully, then couldn’t help but grin when she heard him chuckle.
“What the hell did I get myself into? Alright, but please keep an eye out,” he urged, concern threading through his tone once more.
“I could get my car,” she offered.
“No, and that’s settled. I don’t need him seeing you and following you. When Maggie takes you home, you keep an eye out for any cars tailing you,” Jack instructed firmly.
“I will. I promise,” she assured him.
“I’ll talk to you later. Have a good day,” he concluded.
“You too,” Randi replied, ending the call with a lingering smile.
At eleven o’clock, the late morning sunlight cast gentle shadows as she watched a sleek black SUV pull up to the house. Standing inside, she watched until she caught sight of Maggie stepping out of the vehicle. Only then did she swing open the door and step onto the sun-dappled porch.
“Hi, Maggie,” she greeted her.
“Hi, Randi. It’s so pretty here,” Maggie exclaimed, her eyes admiring the warm embrace of the afternoon light painting the surroundings.
“Do you want to come inside?” Randi offered, gesturing toward the interior.
“Not if you’re ready,” Maggie said.
“I am. Let me just grab my purse,” Randi said, turning back inside. Retrieving her purse, she then stepped back out to Maggie’s vehicle. Climbing into the car, she closed the door and settled in, a feeling of anticipation bubbling within her as she buckled her seatbelt.
“I’m so glad you asked me to join you,” she confessed as the car hummed to life.
“Me too. We could walk through some shops if you’re okay with that,” Maggie suggested.
“As long as we’re in a crowd, we should be fine,” Randi replied, reassured by the thought of bustling streets and friendly faces.
“Okay, then we’ll do that, and if at any time you feel unsafe, we’ll leave immediately,” Maggie promised.
“Alright. Let’s go. I’m starving,” Randi said, laughing.
Maggie laughed in return as they drove slowly along the driveway, before heading toward town on an adventure filled with the promise of delicious food and warm companionship.
After lunch, the women strolled along the sun-dappled sidewalk, their steps light and carefree as they wandered into each inviting shop that came their way. The day shimmered with beauty, a brilliant display of clear blue skies and gentle warmth, especially after the dramatic, cleansing storms of the previous day.
“Let’s go to Scoops of Joy. I absolutely love ice cream,” Maggie said.
“Me too,” Randi replied, grinning in agreement.
They stepped inside the charm-filled parlor, where vibrant flavors and artfully arranged treats greeted them. They exchanged amused glances as they saw all the customers.
Just then, a voice called out, “Maggie!”
Randi watched as Maggie warmly embraced a striking woman with cascading dark hair.
“Peyton, how are you?” Maggie asked.
“I’m wonderful, thank you. And you?” Peyton responded with a smile.
“Same here. This is Randi Guthrie. She owns Randi’s Scented Haven. Randi, this is Peyton Coleman, one of the owners here,” Maggie introduced them.
“It’s so nice to meet you, Peyton,” Randi said warmly, extending her hand with genuine interest.
“You too, Randi. I’ve been wanting to check out your shop. One of my closest friends, Dylan, stopped in and the soap she bought smelled heavenly. I love homemade soap,” Peyton replied, her eyes sparkling with sincerity.
“Oh, please do visit. I’m closed today, but I’ll be reopening in a day or two,” Randi answered with hopeful anticipation.
“I promise, I will. Now, what can I get for you two?” Peyton offered, gesturing toward the counter.
“We don’t want to step in anyone’s way. Perhaps we can come back another time,” Maggie said.
“Are you sure? We’re quite busy today, probably because everyone was cooped up indoors yesterday,” Peyton said.
“No doubt about that. How’s Warren been?” Maggie inquired, slipping into familiar conversation.
“Wonderful, thanks for asking,” Peyton replied.
“Well, we won’t keep you long. We’re merely out here acting like tourists today,” Maggie said with a smile that mirrored the day’s simple pleasures.
“Okay then. Please do come back soon,” Peyton said, her smile radiating genuine warmth.
“We will,” Maggie assured her.
“And please, make sure to drop by my shop sometime, Peyton,” Randi added with a cheerful grin.
“You won’t be able to keep me away for too long,” Peyton replied with a chuckle.
After bidding farewell at the welcoming ice cream shop, they stepped back outside and crossed the street into the bustling bakery. Inside, the air was rich with the mouthwatering aroma of fresh bread and sweet pastries; the space was packed with customers enjoying the lively atmosphere.
“Good heavens,” Randi muttered softly, taking in the scene with a mixture of awe and amusement.
“Hi, Maggie. Hi, Randi,” a familiar voice called out from behind the counter.
“Hey, JoJo! You look a little busy today,” Maggie laughed, as JoJo rolled her eyes in good-natured response.
“Busy is an understatement. Can I get you anything?” JoJo asked, her tone a blend of exasperation and affectionate familiarity.
“I think we’ll pass for now. We’re just out here exploring and soaking in the atmosphere,” Maggie replied, her eyes sparkling with the thrill of discovery.
“Alright then, come back soon. And Randi, I’ll be sure to visit your shop very soon,” JoJo said with a friendly smile.
“I hope so, JoJo. Have a great day,” Randi responded before stepping back outside with Maggie.
Outside, as the two women resumed their leisurely walk, Maggie shook her head playfully. “So much for exploring every shop, huh?”
“I know,” Randi sighed softly, a tinge of resignation mixing with the warmth of the day.
“Damn, it’s getting really hot now,” Maggie observed, glancing upward as the sun’s rays intensified.
“Hey, do you know how to ride a horse?” Randi suddenly inquired, a spark of spontaneity lighting her face.
“Yes, why do you ask?” Maggie replied.
“We could head back to Jack’s place and go for a ride. It might be just the way to spend some time,” Randi suggested.
“Are you sure Jack won’t mind?” Maggie asked.
“I’ll call him and check. Just give me a second.” Randi pulled out her phone and dialed Jack’s number.
“Hey, you okay?” Jack answered promptly.
“I’m fine. Maggie and I are wrapping up our town adventure, but I was wondering if she could join me for a riding session. Is that all right with you?” Randi asked, her tone both casual and eager.
“Of course. I’d love for you to be with someone while out riding,” Jack replied.
“Me too. Alright, we’ll head back to your place then,” Randi confirmed with a smile.
“Randi—”
“I know, Jack. Just keep an eye out for any cars following us,” Randi joked.
Jack chuckled. “That’s my girl. See you later, and have fun.”
“Bye.”
As they continued walking, Randi noticed Maggie’s thoughtful stare and asked, “What’s on your mind?”
“You’ve got it bad,” Maggie observed softly, a knowing smile creeping onto her lips.
“I do. I’m completely in love with him, though I haven’t the slightest idea how he feels about me,” Randi admitted, her voice tinged with vulnerability.
“Well, at least you’re sure of that much.” Maggie sighed thoughtfully.
“What do you mean?” Randi pressed, curiosity in her eyes.
“There’s a man I’m really into, but he doesn’t even know I exist,” Maggie confessed quietly, a mix of irony and wistfulness in her tone.
“Who?” Randi asked, shaking her head in mild disbelief that any man wouldn’t be interested in Maggie. She was a beautiful woman.
“His name is Rafe Marshall. He works at my father-in-law’s ranch,” Maggie revealed, her voice both regretful and affectionate.
“I saw him once. Wait. You’re married?” Randi inquired, eyebrows lifting in surprise.
“Not anymore. But I love my father-in-law, and I visit him as often as I can because he’s just wonderful,” Maggie explained, her tone softening. “It’s a long and complicated story. I promise to tell you someday, but let’s just enjoy today. It’s not exactly a pretty tale.”
“Oh, Maggie. I’m so sorry,” Randi murmured sympathetically.
“It’s okay now. It wasn’t alright before, but I’ve moved past it,” Maggie said, shaking her head as if to dismiss the lingering sorrow. “I hope I never have to see my bastard of an ex again.” With a deep sigh blending relief and lingering regret, she added, “Let’s go. I’m anxious to go riding now.”
And with that, they continued along the sidewalk until they climbed back into Maggie’s SUV. After spending anther hour together, Maggie left, promising to get together again soon.
Around five-thirty, as dusk began to settle, Randi heard the familiar mechanical groan of the garage door pulling open. Her heart quickened, and she moved swiftly toward the kitchen, each step punctuated by anticipation. When she arrived, she stood poised in the doorway as Jack entered; he paused to remove his hat, hanging it neatly, then lowered himself onto the bench to slip off his worn boots, each movement intimate and deliberate.
Jack glanced over with a grin. “Hi,” he said.
“Hi,” Randi replied, settling beside him on the bench as the aroma of freshly baked pizza, rich with herbs and melting cheese, teased her senses. “That pizza smells so good.”
Jack leaned in and captured her lips with a kiss that spoke of raw desire. “Not as good as you,” he murmured, his voice low and husky. Rising, he helped her to her feet and said with a playful smile, “I need to get a shower. You can start without me.”
Drawing him closer, Randi slipped her arms around his waist as if to tether his departing warmth. “Maybe I need a shower too,” she replied coquettishly, planting tender kisses along his neck.
“Really? All that shopping and riding got you dirty?” he teased.
She laughed. “No, but I’d love to get dirty with you.”
“Sweetheart, you said the magic words. We’re definitely going to get dirty,” he responded. Taking her hand, he led her through the bedroom and into the bathroom, where he turned the shower on and a generous cascade of steaming water awaited them.
Wrapped in the humid glow of the shower, Randi let out soft moans as Jack’s skillful fingers worked to gently wash her hair. The scent of her shampoo mingled with the steamy heat as he whispered, “Rinse,” prompting her to tilt her head beneath the rainfall of warm water. Turning to face him, she let her lips brush against his chest, gradually trailing kisses down the chiseled planes of his six-pack abs until she reached the apex of his hard cock.
With a slow, deliberate grace, she slid down to her knees and took him into her mouth. His fingers tangled in her hair as she began to move in a rhythmic, teasing cadence, her hand finding the base of his engorged cock and coaxing movement in graceful harmony with her mouth. When she swirled her tongue expertly around the head, a deep groan resonated from him; and as she sucked with an increased fervor, he pulled her up forcefully, capturing her lips in a deep, hard kiss that redefined intensity.
“Jack, did I do something wrong?” she asked, a note of uncertainty threading through her breath.
“God, no. But I want to be inside you, Randi,” he replied sharply, his desire unmistakable. In one fluid motion, he turned off the water, grabbed a towel, and quickly dried himself, every movement efficient and charged with purpose. After hanging his towel to dry, he fetched another and carefully patted her down, absorbing the lingering droplets from their shared warmth. Gently, he scooped her into his arms and carried her back to the bedroom.
Once there, he laid her tenderly on the bed and settled by her side. Reaching into the nightstand, he retrieved a condom, opening it with careful attention before rolling it on. Shifting his position, he moved over her, his knees softly pushing her legs apart as he prepared to bridge the final gap between desire and fulfillment. He pressed his lips to hers, a passionate kiss that promised more, though she playfully pushed against his shoulders. Lifting his head, Jack caught her teasing words, “My ride, cowboy,” causing him to roll onto his back with a gentle thud as she straddled him with confident abandon.
Randi’s fingers dug into Jack’s shoulders as she shifted her hips, grinding against his throbbing cock. She could feel every inch of him pressing against her, teasing her with his hard length. The air between them was thick and humid, sweat already beading on Jack’s chest as Randi’s thighs flexed around his hips. Her nipples were hard peaks brushing against his skin as she leaned forward, her breath hot and uneven against his neck.
“I need you so much, Jack,” she whispered into his ear before sinking down onto him in one slow, torturous motion.
Jack’s groan was guttural, primal, as she took him inside. Her wet heat enveloped him completely. Randi’s head fell back as she adjusted to his size, her long hair cascading down her back like a waterfall. Jack’s hands immediately went to her hips; calloused palms gripping her soft flesh as he guided her into a rhythm.
“Damn,” he gritted out through clenched teeth, “You feel like fucking heaven.”
Randi moaned, low and deep, as she started grinding against him, rolling her hips in slow circles.
****
Jack could feel her inner walls clenching around him like a velvet vice; every pulse sending electric shocks up his spine. She was wet; just for him.
“Faster,” he snarled, his voice gravelly with need. “Ride me hard.”
Randi smirked, a wicked tilt of her lips, before slamming herself down on him hard and fast, with every thrust. The sound of their ragged breaths echoing throughout the room.
Jack bucked his hips up to meet her, driving himself deeper into her, and the sensation ripped a scream from Randi’s throat. Her nails raked down his chest, leaving angry red marks that only fueled his desperation, and when he reached between them to rub her clitoris, she shattered around him.
“Jack!” she screamed. Her whole body trembling as her orgasm ripped through her core.
But he didn’t let up, he flipped her to her back and kept pounding into her mercilessly, his cock hitting against that sweet spot deep inside as she whimpered below him.
“Again,” he demanded roughly, his lips trailing hot kisses along her collarbone before nipping at the tender skin there. “I want to feel you come again.”
Randi shook violently as another wave overtook her and that was all it took for Jack to lose control entirely, and he came hard.
Panting heavily, drenched in sweat, they collapsed against each other, both too worn out to move for what felt like an eternity. Finally, after catching his breath, Jack chuckled against Randi’s ear; “Told ya… we’d get dirty.”
Randi laughed, leaned over and kissed his lips.
Jack cradled her face in his hand, pressing another searing kiss to her lips. His lips wandered along her cheek, trailing tender kisses down to her ear as he whispered, “You drive me crazy.”
In the mingling haze of passion, and whispered promises, every touch and every glance deepened the intensity of their union, weaving together a tapestry of desire that neither would ever forget.