Page 28 of Unexpected Adventures

“I’m pretty sure she already had that exact thing in mind. In fact, I thinkshethinks she needs to prep me for you.”

“What?”

I laugh at his amused look. “Well, she wants to take me to a spa for a makeover. I guess that involves a facial. and hair and make-up, and I’m sure she’ll be dressing me this evening. So, to give her a heads-up, what did you have in mind? That way the attire will be appropriate.”

“You don’t need to go to all that fuss. That is, unless you like to do that sort of thing,” he quickly adds. “Abby, I like you just as you are now.”

I scoff. “In cut-off shorts and a t-shirt?”

“Yeah, because in the short period of time since I’ve met you, I know it’s who you are, what you’re comfortable with. Besides, you look really cute.”

“Well, thank you for that. And the fact you can read me in so little time means it really is time for me to get out of that comfort zone. Between Denise and Sylvia, I guess they’ve found a way to pound that into my hard head.”

Shaun stops me by placing his hand on my elbow, turning me to face him. “It only matters what you want.”

I look down at the ground as if gathering courage. When I look back up to him, I see sincerity. “I’ve never thought about my life being boring until I sat back and really looked at it, and yeah, it’s been safe. And, maybe a little more than boring, according to some. It makes me think about doing more. There’s plenty out there I haven’t allowed myself to experience, and I’d like to change that.”

“Does that mean you’d be up for an adventure this evening?” A hint of daring is evident in his voice.

“I most certainly would be. What do you have in mind?”

“That, my dear, will have to be a surprise.”

“Well, you have to give me some sort of clue so I’ll know what to wear.”

“Ah yes, the all-important wardrobe. How about nothing much different than what you’re wearing right now? Comfortable shorts, a top, sneakers. Bring a light jacket, just in case. The nights can get chilly in the desert.”

“That’s it? That’s all you’re going to give me to go on?”

“That’s all you need.” He gives me a quick kiss on my cheek before we resume our walk.

A few minutes go by, and I can’t help but ask. “Shaun, were you really sorry about this morning?”

He stops once again, facing me, caressing my chin with his finger while his thumb grazes my lower lip. “No, Abby, I wasn’t. I’m inexplicably, wildly attracted to you, and meant it when I said I want to get to know you more. About this morning, I enjoyed every bit of it. I would’ve enjoyed much more, but I can see that you’re not ready to take that leap just yet.”

“And you are?”

“If you want me to be honest, then yes. I’d like to think I’m not like other guys when it comes to women, whose first thought is all about sex. But I can think of nothing more appealing than lying naked in bed with you. Among other things.”

“Why me?”

My comment clearly stumps him for a moment because he looks thoughtful and remains quiet for a bit.

“Wow. Gotta think about that one, huh?”

He surprises me by quickly grabbing my waist and hauling me to him. He has me on my tippy-toes as he leans down close to me.

“I happen to think you’re a sexy lady who shouldn’t be so hard on herself.” He kisses me.A slow, lingering kiss that has me closing my eyes, savoring its sweetness. “Something about you, Abby, has me wanting more.” More brushing of the lips. “Your innocence, your sincerity, your honesty. All redeeming qualities.”

“Mmm,” is all I can muster before he releases me. He takes a hold of my hand, kissing the knuckles before striding forward.

We enjoy the walk in more silence. I cannot say how far we’ve gone, as nothing around us looks familiar. The dogs are scurrying along, enjoying themselves, and before long, we’re back in front of Sherri’s house.

“That’s probably all these little ladies can handle,” Shaun says as we make our way up the front walk.

“That was quick, but yes, I agree. I bet their little legs are ready for a break.”

“So, do you have any pets, Abby?”

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