Page 52 of Pregnant by the Texan
“I’ve missed you,” he said.
Her lips firmed and she tried to hang on to her emotions. “This is a night we’ve both looked forward to for a long time. Come in and I’ll get my purse and coat.”
“You’re stunning, Stella,” he said as he stepped inside and closed the door behind him. “I’m glad you wore your necklace.”
“It’s lovely, Aaron.”
He studied her intently and she tilted her head, puzzled by his expression.
“So what are you thinking?”
“That you’re the most gorgeous woman in the state of Texas.”
His remark made her want to laugh and made her want to cry. It was a reminder of one of the reasons it was going to hurt so much to tell him goodbye. “A wee exaggeration, but thank you. I’m glad you think so.”
“Tonight should be fun,” he said. “Let’s go enjoy the evening.”
“We’re early, but there may be things to do.”
He pulled her close. “I don’t want to mess up your makeup so I won’t kiss you now, but I’m going to make up for it later.”
She pulled his head down to kiss him for just a minute and then released him. “Nothing on my lips—see. I’m not messed up.”
“No, you’re hot, beautiful and I want you in my arms, Stella,” he said in a husky voice with a solemn expression that might indicate he expected her to tell him goodbye tonight.
“C’mon, Aaron. We have a party to go to.” He held her coat and then took her arm to go to his car.
When they arrived at the Texas Cattleman’s Club, she was amazed to see the cars that had already filled the lot and were parked along the long drive all the way back down to the street.
“Aaron, it looks like most of the people in Royal are here. Wasn’t this scheduled to start at six-thirty tonight?”
“It was. I can’t believe they already have such a huge turnout.”
“I never would have imagined it,” she said. “I know the TCC invited everyone in Royal, but I never dreamed they would all come. Did you?”
“The town’s pulled together since the storm—neighbor helping neighbor. I think everyone is interested.”
“I’m surprised. This isn’t what I expected.”
“It’s what I expected and hoped for.” A valet opened the door for her and she stepped out. Aaron came around to take her arm. Once inside the clubhouse, she glanced around at the rich, dark wood, the animal heads that had been mounted long ago when it was strictly a men’s club. Now women were members and there was a children’s center that had a reputation for being one of the finest in Texas. They paused by a coatroom where Aaron checked their coats and then he turned to take her arm again.
They headed for the great room that served for parties, events, dances and other club-wide activities. The sound of voices grew louder as they walked down the hall.
When they stepped inside the great room, a cheer went up, followed by thunderous applause. Stunned, Stella froze, staring at the smiling crowd. Everywhere she looked, people held signs that read, Stella for Acting Mayor, We Want Stella, and Thanks, Stella.
The TCC president, Gil Addison, appeared at her side. “Welcome, Stella.”
Dazed, she tried to fathom what this was all about. She looked at Gil.
“This little surprise is to show you the support you have from the entire town of Royal. We all want you to accept the position of acting mayor until an election can be held and a new mayor chosen.”
“I’m speechless,” she said, smiling and waving at people.
“Stella, I have a letter from the mayor that I want to read to you and to all,” Gil said. “Let’s go up to the front.”
“Did you know about this?” she asked, turning to Aaron. He grinned and gave her a hug.
“A little,” he said, and she realized that Aaron might have been behind organizing this gathering of townspeople.
