Chapter Six
The following Saturday, Maggie perched on the edge of the sofa, her heart fluttering with anticipation as she waited for Rafe to arrive. The evening promised excitement, and she couldn’t suppress her eagerness at the thought of spending time with him. The possibility of him staying the night lingered in her mind, adding a layer of thrill to her thoughts.
She smiled as she remembered telling Vanna about her and Rafe…
“I’m sorry. Did you just say you and Rafe had sex?”
“Yes. More than once and we’re going out tonight. We’re going to see if we have something. I’m hoping we do.”
“That’s great, Maggie. I know how much you like him, and it looks like he feels the same.”
“I hope so. I’ve always been attracted to him, but you know that.”
“I do. I hope you have a good time tonight.” Vanna smiled.
“I’ll let you know on Monday.”
When a firm knock echoed through the room, interrupting her thoughts, she startled slightly, then rose to her feet. With a quick, steadying breath, she smoothed the fabric of her dress, hoping it met his approval. It was a daring, skintight red number with a scooped neckline, revealing a hint of cleavage, that she had recently picked up from Paige’s shop, perfectly paired with the sleek stilettos adorning her feet. But it was the secret beneath that truly set her pulse racing—a sultry red teddy that clung to her curves, accentuating her silhouette in a way that filled her with confidence. She yearned for the moment his eyes would widen, speechless, at the sight of her.
She walked toward the door, her heart racing as she took a deep breath, and opened it, barely suppressing a moan. There he was, just so incredibly handsome. His dark blue jeans hugged his frame perfectly, and his blue dress shirt complemented his broad shoulders. The distressed cowboy boots added an air of rugged charm, and atop his head sat a pristine white straw Stetson, casting a shadow over his striking features. No man had ever left her breathless until she met Rafe Marshall.
“Hi, you look gorgeous,” he said, his voice smooth and warm, as he handed her a delicate pink carnation. “I like your hair like that. It makes me want to remove those pins and let it fall around your shoulders.”
Maggie couldn’t help but smile as she accepted the flower. “You can certainly do that later. Come in while I put this in water,” she replied, her voice full of warmth and invitation.
Rafe removed his hat, wiped his boots on the mat, and stepped into the apartment, closing the door gently behind him.
“You’re trying to kill me, aren’t you?” he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
“Me?” Maggie feigned innocence.
“I’m not talking to myself,” he quipped, eliciting a burst of laughter from her.
Maggie moved toward him, slipping her arms around his waist and gazing deeply into his eyes. “I wouldn’t want to do that. I like you too much,” she teased, her voice a soft melody.
Rafe’s grin widened. “That’s good to hear. Are you ready to go?”
“Yes. Let me grab my purse,” she replied, her excitement intense.
Once she retrieved her purse, they moved toward the door together. Rafe opened it, took her keys, locked the door, and handed them back with a smile. He took her hand, guiding her down the stairs. At the bottom, he led her around to the passenger side of his vehicle, opening the door and offering his hand as she slid onto the seat. He then walked around the front to the driver’s side, climbed in, and turned to her with a grin.
“You smell amazing,” he complimented, his eyes fixed on her.
“Thank you. So do you,” she replied, the sincerity in her voice undeniable.
“I hope you’re hungry,” he said.
“I’m starving. I skipped lunch today so I could do a meal justice tonight,” she confessed, her anticipation growing.
“Did you work today?” Rafe asked, his curiosity genuine.
“Yes. I’ll be glad when the tourist season is over. I’ll have a whole weekend to myself,” she said, a hint of longing in her voice.
“I hope not always to yourself,” Rafe interjected, a teasing note in his voice.
“No. Okay, I’ll have a whole weekend with you… if you want,” she offered, her eyes meeting his with an unmistakable invitation.
“Oh, I want,” Rafe chuckled. “When it snows, we can sit inside and watch it.”
“With a fire?” Maggie inquired, her voice soft with hope.
“Yes, ma’am. If that’s what you want,” he assured, his tone gentle and promising.
“I’d love it,” Maggie said, her voice a whisper of anticipation. She cleared her throat, hesitating slightly. “Will you stay with me tonight?”
“No, you’re going to stay with me,” Rafe replied.
“I didn’t bring extra clothes,” she protested, a teasing lilt in her voice.
“And?” Rafe asked, raising an eyebrow mischievously.
“Rafe Marshall, I cannot be naked,” she said, feigning indignation.
Rafe laughed. “I don’t see why not. We could go swimming too,” he suggested, his eyes dancing with mischief.
“Maybe, but I can’t wear this dress tomorrow,” she mused, glancing down at the fabric.
“Alright, we’ll stop back here, after dinner, so you can pack a bag. How’s that sound?” he suggested.
“Perfect,” she replied with a smile.
As he maneuvered the truck into the restaurant’s parking lot, he looked for a place to park. He found a spot near the entrance, parked, and swiftly hopped out, making his way around to her side. He opened the door, extending a hand to help her down. Together, they walked toward the restaurant, the warm glow of its lights spilling out onto the pavement.
She loved his impeccable manners. As they entered, a wave of savory aromas embraced them, and they approached the polished wooden podium where a hostess stood.
“Hello. Welcome to The Hartland Restaurant. Do you have a reservation?” the hostess inquired, her voice warm and welcoming.
“Yes, ma’am. For Marshall,” he confirmed.
While the hostess checked the computer, a familiar voice called out Rafe’s name. Turning, they saw Nate and Markie approaching with smiles.
“Hey, Nate. Markie,” Rafe greeted, shaking Nate’s hand firmly. Markie hugged him warmly, then beamed at Maggie.
“How about we get a table together?” Nate suggested.
Maggie glanced at Rafe, seeking his approval. He nodded, and she agreed, “I’d like that.”
“Are you sure?” he asked gently.
“Yes,” she affirmed, her smile reassuring.
Rafe returned her smile, then addressed the hostess. “Could we do that?”
“Of course. Let me see what’s available,” the hostess replied, her fingers dancing over the keys.
As they chatted, Rafe noticed Jack Lawrence and Randi Guthrie entering the restaurant. The air seemed to buzz with the energy of familiar faces.
“Popular place,” Jack remarked with a grin as he scanned the room.
“We’re getting a table together. Care to join us?” Nate invited, turning to Jack and Randi.
“Randi?” Jack looked at his fiancée for her decision.
“I’d love it,” Randi responded, smiling warmly at Markie and Maggie.
The hostess, now grinning, assured them, “Let me look again. I’m sure we can put some tables together. I’ll just be a minute if you’d all like to take a seat.” She gestured toward the plush sofas in the waiting area.
They settled into the comfortable seating, the anticipation of the evening humming in the air. After a few moments, the hostess returned, guiding them to a cluster of tables she had arranged, each topped with neatly folded menus.
Once seated, she took their drink orders and walked toward the bar. In a short while, she returned with their beverages, promising that their server would soon be with them.
As they placed their orders, conversation and laughter rippled across the tables, buoyant and lively. Maggie and Randi, close friends, chatted animatedly, while Maggie found herself enjoying Markie’s company, despite not knowing her well. Markie’s playful ribbing of Nate had Maggie laughing to the point of tears.
“You’re in for it when we get home,” Nate teased, a mock warning in his voice.
“Promises, promises,” Markie retorted with a mischievous glint in her eyes. She lifted her glass, sipped her wine, and winked at Nate, her smile playful and infectious.
“Do you see what I put up with?” Nate said with an amused shake of his head, his voice tinged with both mischief and admiration.
Rafe laughed. “Obviously, you love it,” he replied, his tone warm yet teasing.
Nate let out a chuckle. “Yeah, I do.” Leaning over, he pressed a gentle kiss on Markie’s temple, a tender gesture that almost made Maggie sigh contentedly. She adored witnessing a man unafraid to display genuine affection.
Her eyes flitted between Rafe, who was now staring at her with a curious intensity, and Nate, whose smile radiated fondness.
“I want to thank you,” she said softly.
“Me? Why?” Nate inquired, genuine surprise mingling with his amusement.
“For talking some sense into this stubborn hardhead and making him open up to me.”
“Hardhead? Darlin’, I’ve got nothing on you,” Rafe replied smoothly, lifting his beer and taking a long, deliberate swig as if punctuating his words with satisfaction.
Maggie let out a laugh. “You just keep telling yourself that, Rafe Marshall.”
Rafe turned his gaze toward Nate with a playful scowl. “Thanks a lot.”
Nate laughed. “You’re welcome.”
“Randi? I know I asked you before, but how are you doing?” Rafe asked, his tone shifting to genuine concern directed at a quieter corner of the conversation.
“I’m all healed now, Rafe. Thanks for asking. Again,” Randi responded, her smile revealing both gratitude and relief.
“You scared the hell out of me,” Maggie admitted, her voice laced with a mixture of worry and exasperation.
“You? How do you think I felt?” Jack interjected, his tone protective and edged with anxiety.
“I’m fine now, and Phillips is exactly where he belongs.” Randi offered a gentle smile as she spoke of her recovery.
“What happened?” Markie asked her eyes wide with concern.
Randi took a deep breath, recounting the grim details of how her stepbrother had plunged a knife into her, a violent act executed by a man she never knew. Since her mother had entrusted her with everything upon her death, Phillips had believed he was entitled to what wasn’t his.
“Oh, my God! I’m so happy you survived,” Markie exclaimed, shaking her head in disbelief at the cruelty of fate.
“Me too,” Jack murmured softly as he picked up Randi’s hand and pressed a gentle kiss onto her palm.
“What’s with some men?” Maggie sighed, her voice heavy with a mixture of frustration and resignation.
“You don’t have to worry, Maggie. Your ex is behind bars,” Randi reassured, her tone firm yet caring.
“Yes, but if he ever gets out, he’s bound to come for me,” Maggie whispered, the underlying tremor in her voice betraying her lingering fear.
Curious, Jack asked, “Why is he in prison?”
Maggie began explaining the bizarre turn of events—Frederick had stolen his own father’s horses, a daring yet reckless act, and she had aided the Montana Department of Livestock in tracking him down. His capture had led to his incarceration. Though she initially hesitated to mention the beating, Randi’s knowing touch on her hand suffused the moment with unspoken understanding.
“He won’t get out anytime soon. Not for a long time,” Randi assured her softly.
“I hope not,” Maggie confessed with a shudder.
Rafe moved closer, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “He’d have to go through me,” he declared, his voice low and protective.
In a moment of surprised disbelief, Jack blurted, “Wait. He stole his own father’s horses?”
“Yes, that’s exactly the kind of man he is,” Rafe said with a hint of disdain.
“Let’s change the subject, please,” Maggie pleaded, her tone desperate for a reprieve from the heavy discussion.
“Alright,” Rafe nodded, his gaze shifting as the conversation moved on.
Soon their meals arrived, a colorful display of dishes that added vibrancy to the table, and the group began eating amid bursts of laughter and continuous chatter. The evening was wonderful, with every word and gesture painted in the warm glow of camaraderie. Maggie found herself truly enjoying the night, noticing the evident closeness between Rafe and Nate.
As the evening wound down, they settled the bill and left the restaurant together, stepping out into the night air. Together, they ambled toward their vehicles, promising to meet again soon. Rafe opened the door for Maggie and helped her into the truck before driving back to her apartment so she could gather her belongings.
****
Rafe maneuvered his truck into the spot beside her stairs, the vehicle’s tires crunching softly on the gravel. He swung open the driver’s door and stepped out, the evening air brushing against his skin. As he made his way around the front of the truck to the passenger side, he saw that Maggie had already exited. Her hair caught the light, shimmering in the soft glow of the streetlamp.
“I could have gotten the door for you,” he said, a playful smile tugging at his lips.
“I want to pack a bag and go.” Her eyes twinkled as she smiled, a hint of mischief in her expression.
“Alright, let’s go.” He clasped her hand gently, the warmth of her skin a comforting contrast to the night and led her up the metal steps. The sound of their footsteps echoed softly as they climbed, and he waited patiently while she fished out her keys and unlocked the door.
Inside the apartment Maggie turned to him, her expression eager.
“I’ll be right back.”
“Okay.” He nodded, watching her as she moved toward where her bed sat, the soft fabric of her dress swaying with each step. “Hey.” She paused, glancing back at him with curiosity. “Don’t change that dress.” His grin widened as her cheeks flushed a delicate pink.
“Oh, I won’t. There’s a surprise under it.” Her words were teasing, and he groaned in playful exasperation, eliciting a laugh from her.
Rafe eased himself onto the sofa, while she moved swiftly about packing a small bag with precise, fluid motions that spoke of both urgency and calm. When she reappeared with her bag in hand, Rafe gently took it from her, and together they left the apartment. The truck’s engine growled to life, and as Rafe drove them away beneath a velvet, starlit sky, the road meandered like a ribbon of possibility, guiding them toward the quiet sanctuary of his cabin.
Upon arriving at his place, Rafe shut off the truck and swung open his door, retrieving her bag from the back. Closing the door behind him, he glanced back to see Maggie waiting at the front of the vehicle. Reaching for her hand, he led her toward the door, pausing for a moment as he looked deeply into her eyes.
“My dog, Booker, will be all over you, so if you’d prefer me to go in first to let him outside, just say the word,” he offered.
“Oh, no. Don’t do that. I love dogs,” Maggie replied, her voice warm and reassuring.
“Okay,” Rafe said as he inserted his key into the lock. He couldn’t help but let out a small shake of his head when the excited barking of Booker reached his ears. With a gentle push, he opened the door, nodding for Maggie to step inside before following her in.
He carefully set her bag on a sturdy table near the entry, then removed his cowboy hat and hung it on a hook. His eyes followed Booker, who bounded over with exuberance, his small yet powerful frame quivering with energy as he wagged his tail in wild delight.
“Oh, my goodness! How adorable are you?” Maggie cooed as she dropped to her knees beside the happy dog to pet him tenderly.
“Please don’t tell him that,” Rafe teased, a playful glimmer in his eyes.
Maggie looked up at him, her smile lighting up her face. “He’s so pretty.”
“He’s part Australian Shepherd and Border Collie. Smart as hell,” Rafe replied.
“I’ve always loved Aussies, and that one blue eye is just gorgeous,” Maggie said.
“He’s a pain in the ass sometimes,” Rafe admitted with a chuckle that made Maggie laugh.
“You never bring him to the barn. This is the first I’ve seen of him. I did hear him the day I came here for Fred, though. How old is he?” she inquired curiously.
“He’s three, though I only take him out occasionally. He loves running with the horses, and somehow, they seem to have taken a liking to him as well,” Rafe explained with a relaxed shrug.
“Have you had him since he was a puppy?” Maggie pressed on with genuine interest.
“The vet said he was about three months old. One day, while out riding, I noticed him trailing me in the pasture.” Rafe recounted. “I couldn’t leave him behind, so I brought him home.”
“You’ve given him a good home,” Maggie observed.
“He ate my couch,” Rafe said with a mischievous grin.
“I’m sorry, he did what?” Maggie frowned in disbelief as Rafe let out a chuckle.
“That was after I finally managed to house-train him. I thought I’d let him roam free while I was away at work, especially after installing a little pet door for his convenience,” he recounted ruefully. “Big mistake. I walked in one day to find stuffing scattered everywhere, the seat cushions nearly devoured, and him sitting there as though saying, ‘Look what I did.’ It took me six months before I trusted him again. I ended up confining him in a crate every time I left the house afterward, and though I hated doing it, I didn’t want to have to buy new furniture every time I left the house. He’s well-behaved now, though.”
Maggie laughed. “I can’t believe he did that.”
“I learned the hard way that he didn’t like being left alone,” Rafe sighed, shaking his head as if dismissing a fond memory.
“Why wasn’t he out with you, the day I came here and found you in the pool?” Maggie asked with a teasing lilt in her voice.
“I let him out only after I’ve done a few laps. Swimming is one of his great passions,” Rafe replied, sharing a quiet smile with Maggie.
“Just like you,” she remarked softly.
“One of my favorite things to do,” he admitted.
Maggie moved toward him, her arms winding around his waist as she gazed deeply into his eyes. “And what else is among your favorite things to do?”
“Horseback riding... and you,” he said with a grin.
“That’s my favorite one too,” Maggie replied, her laughter mingling with his as he leaned forward quickly to capture her lips in a tender kiss.
“I’ll take your bag to the bedroom,” he added, his voice carrying the promise of intimacy.
“Alright. I’ll be right here,” Maggie murmured.
Rafe paused; his eyes locked on hers, and then nodded. Picking up her bag, he walked slowly down the quiet hallway, his heart pounding with anticipation at the thought of having her close once again.
****
As soon as he vanished from view, Maggie’s fingers deftly slid the zipper along the back of her dress. With deliberate grace, she tugged the fabric downward until it settled just above her breasts. She was aware that he would catch a glimpse of the delicate straps of her teddy underneath, but she relished the anticipation of shedding her dress for him, slowly and tantalizingly.
When Rafe reentered the room, his movement stilled; he paused in the doorway, his eyes locked on her. He slowly advanced toward her, his head tilting as if savoring every detail of the unfolding scene. As she lowered her dress to her hips, a warm, knowing smile played across her lips. Inch by inch, she worked the garment down, slipping her thumbs into its sides, and with a playful shimmy, she extricated herself from its embrace. The fabric pooled around her feet like a soft, dark cascade as she stepped free, watching with satisfaction as his gaze roamed over her exposed skin.
“Holy hell,” he murmured, his voice husky with admiration as he closed the distance between them. “You’re a stunning woman, Magdalena Lancaster.” He reached up to release the pins trapping her hair, allowing it to fall in unruly, silky waves around her shoulders. His fingers combed through the tresses gently before he cradled her neck, leaning in to place his warm lips against her ear. “Those shoes and that teddy are staying on,” he whispered.
A gasp escaped Maggie’s lips as he scooped her up, her legs wrapping instinctively around his waist as he carried her toward the bedroom. At the threshold, he shut the door with a decisive kick, his chuckle echoing lightly as Booker’s bark filled the space behind them.
“Later, buddy, I’m going to be busy for a while,” he said, the humor in his tone mingling with her laughter.
He gently laid her on the soft, inviting bed, then shed his clothes with a speed that seemed almost practiced. Her gaze was irresistibly drawn to him, tracing every contour of his form. As he approached the foot of the bed, Maggie rose onto her knees, her movements fluid and deliberate as she crawled toward him. Her fingers curled around his taut arms, drawing him nearer with a gentle but insistent pull. One hand ventured downward, encircling his throbbing cock, eliciting a deep, resonant groan from him. Yet it was the moment her warm mouth enveloped him, her lips tight around him while her hand expertly traversed his rigid length, that a sharp intake of breath escaped his lips, mingling with the charged atmosphere of the room.
Rafe stepped back from her; his eyes dark with urgency. “You have to stop. I need you now, Maggie,” he implored, his voice rough with desire.
Maggie sank back onto the soft mattress, her eyes locked with his as her fingers deftly reached between her legs to unsnap the fastenings on her teddy, the small clicks echoing in the quiet room.
“Then come and get me,” she whispered.
Rafe crawled up over her body, the warmth of his skin brushing against hers, and placed his lips on hers, kissing her deeply and passionately. The taste of him was intoxicating. She pushed gently at his shoulders, prompting him to lift his head and meet her gaze, their eyes speaking volumes in the silent exchange. He rolled onto his back with a grin, and she straddled him with a playful glint in her eyes.
“My ride this time,” she murmured into his ear, her breath sending a shiver down his spine before she took his earlobe gently between her teeth. She straightened, her body poised, then lowered herself slowly, taking him deep inside her, a moan escaping both their lips, the room filled with the sound of their mutual pleasure.
Maggie moved rhythmically, her body rising and falling with an increasing tempo, each movement stoking the fire between them until she cried out, her climax washing over her like a tidal wave. Rafe flipped her onto her back and drove into her with an urgent passion. She succumbed once more, her body arching as another wave of ecstasy crashed over her, just as Rafe groaned her name, his own release following swiftly.
The next morning, Maggie awoke to streams of sunlight flooding through the windows, casting a golden hue across the room. Stretching her arms luxuriously above her head, she smiled at the memory of last night, the passion, the unbridled intensity, and the knowledge that he was a man who left nothing to chance. Yet when she turned to her side, she realized with a start that the man who had ignited her desire had already vanished. Glancing at the clock, she noted it was past nine, an unusually late hour for her.
She tossed aside the covers with a flourish and rummaged for her bag before choosing a pair of well-worn jeans and a softly fitted T-shirt, then entered the bathroom to brush her teeth. Once dressed, she wandered into the kitchen searching for any sign of Rafe, but he was nowhere to be seen, and neither was Booker. With a soft sigh, she retraced her steps to the bedroom and pulled open the patio door blinds. She smiled at the sight of Rafe leisurely floating with Booker splashing playfully in the pool. She slid open the door and stepped out into the warm morning.
“Hey,” she greeted, her voice light, ensuring that Rafe turned his attentive gaze toward her.
“Hey. About time you got out of bed,” he replied, his tone teasing as he swam toward the steps with Booker paddling right behind.
“How long have you been up?” she inquired.
“About two hours,” he responded casually.
“I can’t believe I slept in, but you definitely kept me up late last night,” she said, amusement dancing in her tone.
Rafe emerged from the pool, naked, his skin still glistening with droplets. He picked up a towel and dried himself, then draped it securely around his waist. “I think you have that backwards,” he teased, “You kept me up.” He picked up another towel to rub Booker dry.
“And you loved every minute of it,” she countered with a light, carefree laugh.
“Damn right I did,” he affirmed as he hung up the towel, then closed the distance between them, pressing his lips to hers in a slow, deliberate kiss. Grasping her hand, he led her back inside with Booker following. “How about we go riding?” he suggested.
“Okay,” she agreed, though her stomach gave a soft rumble. “I’m pretty hungry.”
“Let me make you something after I grab a shower and get dressed,” he offered.
“I can manage,” she said. “Really, go ahead, enjoy your shower and take your time. I’ll fix something. By the way, did you eat?”
“Yes, ma’am,” he replied. “Alright, let me shower while you eat, and then we’ll head out.”
“Can Booker come with us?” she asked, already smiling at the thought.
“Absolutely,” he agreed readily.
Maggie nodded; her excitement obvious as she made her way back to the kitchen. There, she prepared a couple of slices of toast, spreading a generous layer of grape jelly on them, and took a seat at the island, savoring the quiet morning routine.
A few minutes later, Rafe reentered. “That’s all you’re having for breakfast?”
“Yes,” she replied. “Maybe we could go to lunch later?”
“Sounds good,” he affirmed, his voice warm as they planned the day ahead.