25. Chapter Twenty-Four
Chapter Twenty-Four
BETH
The warm winter sun soaked through Beth’s cotton sundress as she strolled beside Lachlan’s mother, Nancy. She refused to be called Mrs. Peters, and since Beth would stay another week to get the cheaper flight, Nancy had created a schedule of entertainment. Today, she’d taken Beth to La Jolla Outdoor Mall. Tomorrow would be spent with Ann, the next day with Kayce, and then Lachlan would have the rest of the week free from work.
They passed an artistic display of massive, steel balls. Water cascaded down the spheres, into a boxed pond. Music changed from store to store. Deep bass notes pulsed from meters away, while other more tranquil tunes invited shoppers to linger.
A red sign forming the words “Cotton On,” was the only familiar shop name. Although she’d heard of Macy’s, Beth hadn’t been to the American store before. Where did Nancy intend to take her?
Two children pulled on their mother’s arms. A group of teenagers dangling various bags from their wrists skipped by. Garden pots projecting vibrant colors of violet, burnt orange, and white, backdropped seating areas shaded by yellow umbrellas.
Nancy waved her into a clothing store featuring a sales sign, “new arrivals.” Metallic-colored mannequins showcased dresses in delicate fabrics. Nancy had great fashion sense and looked young for her age. She wore a medium-length pencil skirt, a flowy, off-the-shoulder number, and wavy hair curved around her cheeks.
The outfits hanging from rough textured walls looked expensive. More than happy to window shop, Beth would resist any purchases and save her last pennies. Next day flights doubled the price, so it made sense to wait a week and at least see one part of America. San Diego seemed perfect for tourists—clean, endless things to do, and she couldn’t complain about the weather.
Nancy flicked dress after dress on a circular rack as if on a mission. Did she have a real estate event soon? Lachlan’s mother shook out a shimmering midnight blue dress with a scoop back of gathered satin. Wow, Nancy liked the racy numbers. She had a trim figure to pull it off though.
Nancy stepped closer and held it under Beth’s chin. “Perfect.”
Her brows rose. “You want me to wear this?”
“You’ll look stunning. Try it.” Nancy’s face beamed.
Beth took the hanger and peeked at the price tag. Her eyes widened. “It’s way out of my budget. ‘Cotton On’ is what I can afford right now.”
“I’m paying.” Nancy patted Beth’s arm. “You can’t visit San Diego and miss out on the experience of a five-star restaurant with an ocean view.”
“Oh. Which evening are we going out for dinner?”
“Lachlan will take you one night. I’ll make sure he does.”
How could she explain to Nancy that this wasn’t the type of dress she’d wear out—on any occasion? “Nancy, I don’t—”
“Just try it on.” Nancy shooed her to the fitting room. “Go. I want to see it on you. You’ll look great.”
Beth did as she was told and squeezed into the dress. Since her shoes didn’t match, she kept them off and stepped out to the catwalk.
“Gorgeous!” Nancy oozed. “Turn around.” She waved her finger in a circle.
Beth’s cheeks warmed. She twirled quickly, the swish cooling her naked shoulder blades.
Nancy’s gaze meandered from her toes to her waist. “You’ve got great legs, Beth. You should show them off more.” She crossed her arms. “I have spider veins and find stockings too warm.” Nancy stood back, assessing her further. “Before you have children, you should take advantage of your thin waistline. You look amazing. It’s perfect. Let’s get that one.”
Beth blinked. “Oh. Please, don’t fuss over me. This is way too much.”
“Think nothing of it. You need some pampering after what you’ve been through. Lachlan can take you out and treat you like a queen. That’s what you deserve.”
“I’m not sure he’ll be as keen as you to take me out to a fancy restaurant. Sounds more like a date.”
She waved away the comment. “He’ll be happy to. Lachlan cares about you and would want you to feel special. And you are. So, let me buy the dress.”
Beth fingered the hem. When she got back to Australia, she could lower it two inches and raise the back scoop. The material was exquisite, and it would be a shame to only wear it once when it cost so much. “Are you sure?”
“Positive. Let’s find some heels and accessories next.”
Beth swallowed and gave in to Nancy’s generosity. It was so much easier to give than receive. Beth needed to work on that.
LACHLAN
Lachlan had finished a vigorous day of bathroom renovations and yearned for a relaxing night at Mom’s. She had other plans for him. Said Beth wanted to experience fine dining on the waterfront. Mom had already made reservations. Apparently, she wanted to pick up the tab. His parents were always generous, but he preferred to pay the bill himself. Beth was his friend, and if she wanted a fancy dinner in San Diego, he’d make it happen.
Lachlan put on the suit pants he’d last worn at a friend’s wedding. Workouts on the ship left the material a little tight around his thighs. He’d have them adjusted for the next time. On his bed, he laid out the two dress shirts he’d bought since he’d come back. The long-sleeved white Jameson would go best with his Prussian blue jacket.
Next, he added a touch of hair wax and a splash of Wild organic cologne his sister brought him last Christmas. Then he headed to his parents’ house to collect Beth.
The front door was locked, so he pressed the bell. The door swung open, and the sight of long legs nearly knocked him over.
His gaze cruised bare slender arms, and a dazzling dress that highlighted all her curves. Was this really Beth? He blinked.
“Whoa . . . you dressed up. I should’ve worn a tie.”
She clung to her purse. “It’s a bit over the top, isn’t it?” she whispered.
He leaned forward. “Why are you whispering?”
“Your mother picked this from the mall today and insisted I wear it tonight.”
Now it made sense. Beth was conservative. “Where is my mother, by the way?” He angled his head to peer past her, then glanced at his watch. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll take care of her later. We’ve got a reservation at seven. Let’s go.”
After he opened the car door for Beth, he hopped in his side and remembered his manners. “By the way, you look amazing.”
She adjusted her dress, pulling at the end as if to make it longer. “Your mother had a ball picking out accessories. She insisted on paying for everything. Such a sweetie.”
He bit back a laugh. Oh, mother dearest. Playing the matchmaker. He shook his head as he switched on the radio.
Ten minutes later, they rode the elevator. Lachlan read the poster about Atlanta Cosmo. Perched atop a skyscraper on the brink of downtown, the restaurant offers the most outstanding dining experience in San Diego.
Beth studied the photos a foot away from him. “The view will be breath-taking.”
His gaze wandered over her figure once more, and he agreed. How in the world would he focus on friendship with Beth dressed like that? Torture. At least at the table, he wouldn’t have to see those long legs. He raked his hand through his hair, willing the elevator to hurry up and get to level twelve.
As they entered the restaurant, a gush of air-conditioning hit his face. Good. Maybe Beth would get cold, he could offer his jacket, and cover some skin. He smiled to himself.
They checked in and followed the waiter to their table. Beth walked in front of him, flashing a bare back and shapely hips. He flicked his glance at the skyline. City lights of white, red and pinks, flittered through the floor to ceiling windows. The sky reflected shades of rich, eggplant purples onto the water of the bay. Mom had picked a classy place.
The tuxedoed waiter pulled out a padded Carolina blue highback chair for Beth. Lachlan drew back the chair opposite her. Perfect. He could gaze into her alluring eyes all night. Should he message his meddling mother and thank her for the setup he didn’t need right now? Surely Beth wasn’t interested in a romantic date. What was his mom thinking?
The waiter poured water into the goblet wine glasses and said he’d be back soon to highlight the specials.
Beth smoothed her hand over the white tablecloth. His mind ran away with a fantasy of her palm doing the same to his cotton shirt. He blinked to shut out the image.
“Are you okay?”
He pulled at his collar. “I’m finding it a little difficult to relax. Intense day at work—started at six-thirty in the morning, and we didn’t finish until an hour ago.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I might need a red wine tonight. Did you want anything?”
She flicked the menu over and traced her finger down the list. “A pine-orange juice for me, please.”
“I’ll go and order it from the bar, so we don’t have to wait.” And he could go to the bathroom first, and splash water on his face.
When he returned holding the two drinks, Beth faced away, admiring the view. Her hair looped in curls on top while a few wispy ringlets kissed her neck. She wore dangly diamante earrings which Mom must’ve bought to match the sparkling dress. When he cleared his throat, Beth turned with a megawatt smile that kicked his heart into overdrive. He might as well raise a white flag and surrender now.
Lachlan handed her the juice and sat down. “Picked anything from the menu yet?”
“It all looks delicious. Shall we go for the chef’s degustation?”
Dominated by French and Californian cuisine, the menu listed the impeccable eight-course sample dishes. If they chose this option, they’d commit to a long night. He searched Beth’s face. The candlelight flickered across her skin and brightened her eyes. Why should he hesitate? They were both single. Sure—not the right timing for him to make any moves, but she had seemed open to the idea of him going to Australia. And he’d made it clear he wanted to spend time with her. Mom could be right. Beth might come around eventually, and he’d be there waiting when she was ready.
“Good choice.” He let out a contented sigh and leaned back into the admission that he’d allow his heart to fall in love.
BETH
Beth placed an empty mussel shell on her appetizer dish and collected another crumbed-baked Provencale. She forked into the garlic and parmesan herb filling and let it tantalize her tastebuds.
“Mmmm. The flavors are exquisite. I must try to bake these back home. We have an abundance of fresh seafood in Fremantle.”
Lachlan propped an elbow on the table and leaned into his palm. “So, you love cooking, huh?”
“I enjoy cooking for my family and community dinners. Not much for myself.”
Lachlan gazed dreamily at her. “I like how you’ve done your hair tonight.” He reached over and gently tugged a lock. The brush of his fingers against her cheek sent tingles down her neck. “How do you get it to curl like this?” He let it bounce back into shape.
“I have a natural wave. If I scrunch it while it's damp, my hair goes curly. The locks form when I twist my fingers through.”
He collected another lock. “Like this?” He swirled his finger through the strands.
She smiled. “Yes, like that.” What was going on in that head of his? All of a sudden, Lachlan was studying her intently and making her heart thump. Why?
“When I let my hair out later tonight, it will be springy. Then by the next day, it calms into a nice wave.”
“Your hair is beautiful however you wear it. Cute in a ponytail.”
“Thanks.” Was that what she should say? His undivided attention and compliments unnerved her a little. Had Nancy put him up to this? Treating her like a queen? She liked it, nonetheless.
The waiter approached, refilled their water glasses, and collected their empty plates.
Lachlan thanked the waiter, then turned to her. A serious expression came over his features. “I have an apology to make.” He laced his fingers.
What now? Had he changed his mind about coming to Australia? She gulped air.
“I should’ve kept in contact with you. I could have . . . even video called regularly.” He flicked his gaze at the patrons nearby, then back to her.
“Go on. Why didn’t you?” She leaned in with focus on every word.
Lachlan placed his hands under the table and leaned his chest against the edge. “I found you to be a big distraction.” His cheeks reddened. “And I’ve been hurt before. I should’ve given you the benefit of the doubt. I feel so bad that we lost hope in us. Then you moved on . . . and Nick took advantage of your trust. Now, you’ll probably be like I was, disbelieving . . .”
She touched his arm. “I still believe it’s possible to meet a faithful guy. I’ll just take my time before making any life-long decisions.”
Lachlan let out a loud sigh and sat straighter. “Well, that’s out in the open. Let’s get on with enjoying the night.” He lifted his wine glass and took a sip.
“Thanks for explaining.” She tucked a curl behind her ear. “I did wonder why you went cold. Makes perfect sense.” She smiled. “And it’s my stupid fault for trusting Nick.” But perhaps things would’ve been different if she’d known there was a possibility of more with Lachlan. Too late for regrets.
The music changed from a slow jazz to an upbeat funky bass. A good distraction to lift her mood. She did a silly jig, waving her hands.
Lachlan laughed. “Do you like to dance?” He raised a brow.
“I like to groove in my car with the stereo loud—when no one is looking.”
“There’s a dance floor between the restaurant and the casual bar around the corner.” He grinned. “I’d like to see your moves.”
She threw her head back and laughed. “They aren’t that great. I’d win the daggy dance competition if there was one.”
He stood and approached her side of the table, holding out a hand. “Would you like to dance?”
She fluttered her lashes in surprise. “Now?”
“Why not, between courses? One dance won’t hurt.” Irresistible—the warm sparkle in his eyes.
“All right.” She took his hand and stood. They passed the bar, and Lachlan told the staff to hold their next entrée for a while.
They stepped onto a small stage floor that had a disco ball circling above. No one else danced as it was early in the night. A few glances came from distant patrons, but they continued eating or became engrossed in conversation.
The music slowed again, presenting more saxophone and piano. Lachlan slipped his hand around her waist, and her breath hitched as he drew her close. The mesmerizing scent of something like geranium and musk emanated from his shirt collar. He held her other hand and bent his elbow, closing the space between them. Oh, she could melt in a puddle right now. Lachlan Peters, what are you doing?
He swayed her side to side in time with the music, and her eyes drifted to a close. A flute flowed into the mix, and she relaxed into Lachlan. His head dipped slightly, pressing his short beard to her cheek, allowing his warm breath to caress her neck. They danced the whole song like that, then another jazz number played.
A deep feminine vocal began, “I never knew what real love was, the kind a girl dreams of . . . love that lasts and never ends . . .” Oh, no. This would make her cry. Lachlan’s hand slid a little above her waist, snapping her focus toward his fingers brushing her skin. He hugged her tight, conveying security and strength. Was he trying to tell her something from the way he held her? He wasn’t one to let her go.
The lyrics continued, “searched all of my life . . . then you entered my world . . . I struggled to believe . . . could it really be?” Lachlan placed her hand on his shoulder and palmed her waist, embracing her in an intimate hug. She laced her arms over his shoulders. He nuzzled into her neck, a touch below her earlobe, sending tremors down her spine.
The saxophone soloed for a few beats, then the woman sang, “Stuck by my side . . . showed me true love . . . I can’t let you go . . . now I found you. . . you’re the man of my life . . . I can count on you.” Oh, she wanted to believe it. But could she?
Lachlan’s thighs brushed hers as he led her in a slow semi-circle. She’d never danced with someone like this. Back in high school, she’d accompanied friends to the balls, and had once gone with a guy, but they hadn’t danced together. Nick hadn’t taken her dancing. They hadn’t been together long enough. Was this what it was like to be on the rebound? The thought of Nick didn’t ignite feelings of guilt and longing. Once she’d sighted Lachlan, all of that disappeared. Only the dread of facing her friends and colleagues back home remained. What she’d felt for Nick hadn’t been real love.
The last lingering notes of the song cued the end, but she didn’t want Lachlan to stop holding her. Would he stay for one more dance? They should get back to their meal.
He whispered, “That was a long song blended into two. But you seemed to enjoy it.”
His breath tickled her ear.
“I’m the only one who enjoyed it?”
“Okay, I did as well. Too much.” He withdrew in a sudden movement, clasped Beth’s hand, swung her in a twirl, and pulled her back into his chest. “That’s the extent of my groovy moves.”
She giggled. “Nice.”
His grin came easy. “Shall we resume our dinner?” He offered his hand.
She placed hers in his. “We shall.”