Page 42 of A Cowboy's Twinkling Lights Lasso
“Thorn.” My heart races, and my breath hitches. “What are you doing here?”
A playful smile dances on his lips. “Dani told me this was the bathroom.” His dark hair is tousled perfectly under his stetson, and his styled beard frames his chiseled jaw.
“It’s not.”
“I see that.” A wicked expression steals him, and still, he manages to have a calm demeanor. “I didn’t mean to interrupt.” His whiskey-smooth voice erases my quick flutter of embarrassment.
“You didn’t. I finished.” My confidence surprises even me.
His muffled chuckle is so damn sexy. So is the plaid shirt tucked into well-worn jeans.
“That’s a shame.” His lips remain parted ever so slightly, making my mouth crave his.
I toss the comforter aside and slip out of bed. My bare feet sink into the softness of the braided rug.
Thorn’s gaze rakes over my flannel pajamas, and I’m fully aware they aren’t sexy or glamorous, but I never claimed to be either.
“Wait here.” I dash to the bathroom.
His chuckle follows me.
I quickly grab my toothbrush and squeeze out a dollop of toothpaste. Minty freshness fills my mouth, chasing away the remnants of sleep. A quick rinse and glance in the mirror ensures I’m somewhat presentable despite the messy hair and flannel sleepwear. I take a deep breath and fling open the bathroom door.
He hasn’t moved, the sexy grin still on his face.
“I know we have loads to unpack between us, but I just wanted to say good morning properly.” Without a second thought, I rise to my tiptoes. Our lips brush together gently, soft and tender. Nothing like last night. He cups the sides of my face, and I close my eyes, indulging in the rich flavor of roasted beans. The kiss is slow and soft, making my heart flutter. As it deepens, we explore with a light touch. Our lips move in perfect harmony—passionate and soothing.
When we part, his hand remains on my cheek. “I reckon that’s a proper morning kiss.”
“I agree.”
His thumb rubs my skin. “I thought I could take you to breakfast before we head to the ballroom.”
“I could eat breakfast.”
“Then I’ll let you get dressed, unless”—his finger trails down my collarbone—“you want me to help. As much as I think you look adorable in flannel, I prefer nothing.”
I smile. “We have places to be this morning and photos to take. I’ll meet you in the living room.”
After a quick shower, I find Thorn staring out the large windows overlooking the lodge’s brush, trails, and mountains in the distance.
“Where’s Dani? Is she meeting us for breakfast?”
He turns, and I don’t know how the man takes my breath away so easily. “She said something about giving us time alone.”
“Of course she did.”
“She also wanted me to tell you to check your email.”
“I’ll check it later.” I can imagine whatever she sent is encouraging me to spend time with Thorn—which I planned to do without her opinion. “Are you two still plotting with Wilma and Faye.” I unzip my camera bag and ensure it’s nestled inside before slinging it over my shoulder.
A glint of mischief dances in his cedar-brown eyes. “I can’t very well disclose our meetings to an outsider.”
“I’m an outsider, am I?”
“Yes, ma’am.” He scoops his Stetson off the table. “You look mighty fine today, Miss Rowe.”
I blush.
