Page 11 of Capturing Clint

Chrissy felt electric jolts with every pass of Clint’s skin on hers. She closed her eyes as she enjoyed the warmth spreading up her arm. “I feel like the awkward college girl again crushing on you,” she whispered. Her eyes flew open, a deep blush no doubt covering her face.

“Believe me, Christine Harrison, you’re far from that awkward college girl. But I don’t mind telling you I like the sound of you crushing on me.” He playfully winked. “I find myself feeling more than a crushforyou.”

“You do?”

Before he could answer her the waitress returned, asking if they’d like to order. Chrissy listened as Clint took the liberty of ordering their meal. Once the waitress was gone, Clint continued.

“I liked you, Chrissy, and my lame attempts at asking you out obviously had no impact, as you refused or avoided me at all costs it seemed.”

“I, well, I was so dumbfounded that someone like you would be interested in someone like me. I didn’t have much experience with situations like that. Beth tried to convince me to give you a chance, but I just couldn’t. We were going to talk more about it over break, and then, well, then I went home so suddenly.”

Clint leaned in closer as he spoke. “And then life got away from us. But I’d really like to make up for lost time.”

Chrissy trembled at his words, at his warm breath tickling her ear. If she turned her head, her lips would connect with his. As if reading her mind, Clint placed his hand under her chin and slowly guided her face around to his.

When their lips brushed, she sighed. She closed her eyes and let him take the kiss as far as he wanted. She felt only the slightest increase in pressure as she tasted the lingering liquor on his breath. Angling her head, Chrissy suddenly wanted to take the kiss a little further herself. But before she could, she felt the absence of Clint’s lips from hers as he groaned. She opened her eyes to see his intent stare filled with sorrow, and she immediately wanted to soothe him.

“What’s wrong?” she asked quietly.

“I haven’t even asked whether you’re involved with anyone.”

“I wouldn’t be sitting here with you like this if I were. And what about you? Are you—”

Clint’s lips were on hers again before she could utter another word. The only sound that came from her was a contented sigh as the kiss lingered. She then felt his lips trail warmth over her jaw and up to her ear. His tongue flicked out, licking her lobe before he pulled it into his mouth to gently suckle.

“Oh,” she softly moaned. As much as she would have loved to see what else he could do to make her moan, she didn’t think the restaurant was the appropriate place. Reluctantly she pulled back, clearing her throat.

“So, tell me what you ordered for our dinner?”

****

Clint watched color brighten Chrissy’s face as she fussed with the placement of her napkin on her lap before taking a healthy drinkofher sake. He knew he’d been bold acting as he did, but he just couldn’t help it.

She made his heart race, made his blood burn hot, and made his cock take over the thinking for his brain. Not a good combination when seated in a public restaurant. If he wanted a second chance with her, he needed to slow down, be smart, and be a gentleman.

But he questioned whether he was worthy of any chance with her.

The waitress came by to replace their now-empty sake bottle as he explained the food that would start to arrive.

“I hope you’re not opposed to trying a little bit of everything.”

“Not at all,” Chrissy answered. “I like to try new things. You know, broaden my horizons and all.”

“So tell me about your studio.”

Clint was entertained as Chrissy launched into an enthusiastic story about her business in Denver. Her drive and desire for the future she and Zac envisioned for their business was impressive.

“Wait,” Clint interjected during one ofChrissy’sstories involving a client. “You’re responsible for the decorating of Bob Blackthorn’s offices.” He laughed, thinking of another business associate of his, and the tale the man told of his adventures in remodeling.

“You know Bob Blackthorn?” Chrissy asked as a shocked expression transformed her face.

“I do. Hard to believe our paths have nevercrossedsince I spend the majority of my time in Denver for business.” He shook his head. “All this time, you were right under my nose and I didn’t know it.”

“Incredible. Elaborate,” she added with a smile.

Clint went on to talk about his work with the Cattlemen’s Association, leaving out any mention of the affair, of course. He also entertained her with retelling Bob’s version of the tale about the decorating of his offices, both at home as well as at the Association’s department. Apparently, Bob and Zac got on fabulously. His wife and Zac, not so much.

“Oh, that woman was a menace,” Chrissy added. “Bob’s patience for her was commendable. Luckily, she wasn’t a factor outside their home.” She turned to Clint. “Which makes mequestion, how in the world did I never ran into you while doing his business office?”

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