Page 54 of Love in Riverbend
She nods.
“I’ll be there.”
Once Kandace closes the door, I fight the need to hold her, to pull her against me. Yes, I’m capable of big business deals and even baling hay, but staring into her blue gaze, I’m scared to death to ruin what has been one of the best evenings of my life.
“You like me?” I ask with a grin.
“I do.”
“I like you too.”
Her breathing deepens as her breasts push against the bodice of her dress.
‘Don’t fuck this up, Richards,’ I tell myself.
Instead of acting on what I want, I stuff my hands in the pockets of my shorts and say, “I’ll see you at Quintessential Treasures tomorrow.”
Kandace nods.
Her lips are pink and perfect for kissing. I’m thinking about the text I sent, and I wonder if she is too. For a long moment we stare at one another. Finally, she grins and backs away. “See you tomorrow, Dax.”
I open her door and watch as she buckles her seat belt. Her legs are tan and shapely. My gaze moves up to her trim waist and round breasts. When my gaze meets hers, she grins as if she’s caught me checking her out. Without a word, she starts the SUV.
“Tomorrow,” I say as I close the door.
Standing in the parking lot, I watch as the two of them drive away, and I know in my heart and soul that I don’t want to be a weekend dad. I want the entire package. I lift my face to the sky. “Thank you, Grandma.”
I’m floating on air as I get back in my car. My phone pings, and the screen on the dashboard tells me I have a text message from my assistant, Gena. I hit the button allowing the car to read it to me.
* * *
“Mr. Miller wants the brief for the Swanson case, yesterday.”
* * *
Shit.
My mind has not been on work, not since I turned off my computer Friday late afternoon. Doing the math, I know I have at least three hours of work to put into it. So much for floating on air. I guess it’s a good thing Molly needs to be in bed early.
I reply.
* * *
“I’ll have it to you by morning.”
* * *
Sitting at my computer in Grandpa’s office, I look around at the empty shelves and imagine them filled with books and the house filled with laughter. My vision isn’t complete without Kandace.
I tell myself I’m moving too fast, but am I?
We have a daughter.
The next morning, the brief is done and sent to Gena. Leaving my car in the garage, I walk toward Quintessential Treasures. As I approach, I see the pulled shades and closed sign. It isn’t until I knock on the door that I hear someone from within.
Kandace’s smile warms me from the inside as she unlocks the door.
“I suppose you should have a key,” she says as she lets me inside.
