Howdy, Ma'am

by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel

  She held his gaze. “I think so.”

  “Good. Now you should put the broom away and tend to the meal. Your guests will be arriving soon. You wouldn’t want your father to find you alone with a cowboy and a broom would you?”

  “I think he’d understand. He knows you’re my boss.”

  “But what about the broom?” He wiggled his eyebrows then winked. “He’s still a father, and you’re looking damn good today. Cheery...optimistic...” He moved closer with each word. “Happy.”

  “My father wants to see me happy. If he thinks you’re the reason, he’ll be happy.” If Velia had a fan in her hand right now, she would have used it to cool her cheeks. His closeness raised her temperature.

  “Good. I suspect you’ll be doing quite well for the next year then.” He glanced out the window. “Speaking of Dad, he’s pulling up now, and he’s got his—the guys with him.”

  “Yes, they’re always with him. Get used to it.”

  “No problem.”

  Velia met her parents at the door. Ric wrapped his arms around her and squeezed tight. “Come stai, angelo?”

  “Fine today, thanks. Great to see you, papà.” She nodded to Roy and Nero then motioned her hand toward Caulder. “You all remember Caulder?”

  Ric shook his hand. “Ah, yes, the cowboy. Nice grip.”

  “Yes, sir. Gotta hold the rope tight to stay on the bull.”

  “Does it always work?”

  Caulder laughed. “Ah, no, unfortunately, not all the time.”

  “From what I hear, you’re holding on most of the time.”

  “Yes, sir.”

  Velia marveled at how polite Caulder acted around her father. Wise move. For some reason, he kept doing things to surprise her. It even surprised her when he took her mom’s hand and brought it to his lips. She started out with a certain impression of him and now it seemed to be changing. He isn’t the hardnosed cowboy he wanted to portray when they met. There’s a lot more to learn about this guy.

  She went to a table to straighten a napkin and saw Alice and Edward pull up out front. She dimmed the lights and the whole room glowed with romantic warmth. Hopefully they would remember this day. Edward and Alice took good care of each other, and they had for fifty years. She enjoyed their company, and they enjoyed her. They became her safe haven.

  She held her camera at the ready, wanting to capture the look on their faces when they first came inside. They went directly to her after entering. “Velia, you did a marvelous job with the decorations. Thank you so much. I don’t know who would have done this if not for you.”

  Velia hugged Alice. “Your kids would have and it would have been just as nice. I loved seeing it all come together for you and Edward.”

  “I see your Caulder is here.”

  “Edward, he’s not my Caulder. Now you stop.”

  “I see how he looks at you.”

  “Oh, you hush now,” said Alice. “I bet all men look at her like that, Edward. You mind your own business.”

  “You tell him, Alice. I have to go to the kitchen.” On the way, she turned back to them. “Get ready to meet your guests.” She nodded toward the parking lot. “They’re starting to arrive.”

  Velia hurried off to the kitchen to be sure the appetizers were close to being ready. She would begin with one of her favorite appetizer recipes. Edward would be in heaven.

  “What are you making?” Caulder came in, put his elbows on the counter, and rested his chin in his cupped hands.

  “From bruschetta to spinach-cheese tarts. These appetizers will please the guests.”

  “Smells delicious. Need help?”

  “Sure. You can help me carry a couple trays. We’ll set one on each table and hope all the guests dig in.” She loaded one tray then another. “Here, you grab one tray and follow me.” She stopped, and he almost ran into her, quickly diverting his eyes up to her face. “I have an idea. When I set these down I want you to take one and make like you’re drooling over it.”

  “I can do better. I’ll—muwhaaa—make love to it.” He put two fingers to his lips and pretended to kiss them as a chef would do.

  “Whoa there, horsey!”

  “Anyway, I get the picture. Watch me.” He grinned.

  When she took off again, she glanced back at Caulder and wished he wasn’t watching her tush as she walked away from him. She frowned and wondered if he knew why. When she set the first tray down, she gawked at him. “Did you like what you were staring at?”

  He looked around. “What?”

  “Never mind. Now, can you please take one and try it? If it’s good, please let it be known.” She watched Caulder as he daintily took a bite. Velia rolled her eyes when he peered at her. Maybe he poured it on a little too much.

  “Mmmmm, Velia Armano, this is the best appetizer I ever ate in my whole life. Thank you so much for making this.” He took another and popped the whole thing in his mouth. “Good gawd, this is delicious!”

  “Okay, big boy, that should do it.”

  Caulder had a smile on his face all the way back to the kitchen. She peeked through the doorway and saw others rushing to try them. “Here take another tray out and set it on the other table. I’ll bring the other appetizers.”

  “Want me to do the same thing?”

  “Not exactly as much drama this time because it will look too staged.”

  “Yeah, but you’re forgetting I’m into drama.”

  Again, Velia rolled her eyes as he walked in front of her. She couldn’t help but watch his tight buns as he strutted on in his black dress slacks. When she looked up, he stared over his shoulder. “Enjoy the view?”

  Velia smiled. “Yes, at least I admit it.” Her cheeks flushed.

  They were getting along great. Maybe the trip wouldn’t be all work. Velia thought if they could be friends, or friendly, the trip would go much better. Almost a whole year, for goodness sake, so they needed to get along. She hoped for the best.

  She prepared the salads and put it all on the plates and Caulder and Rose Marie, Alice’s daughter, helped carry it out to the tables. Rose Marie resembled Edward more than her mother with her brown eyes and wavy hair. The guests took their seats. She sat down long enough to eat her own salad and to be sure Caulder enjoyed his. She was still in awe he wanted to help serve. “I suppose I’ll have to tip you when the night is over,” she whispered, leaning close to his ear.

  “Tip me for what?”

  “For being a server tonight. I appreciate your help. Thank you.” She glanced across the table at Alice who watched them. She smiled. Then she whispered something to Edward. “I can imagine what she’s thinking.”

  “Who?”

  Velia nodded toward her landlords, aka, self-appointed grandparents. “They seem to think something might be going on between us.”

  “Well, you know what they say?”

  “They who?” She dabbed at the corner of her mouth with her napkin.

  “If you’re being accused of something, you might as well do it.”

  “Oh, come on. Who says?”

  “I’ve heard it all my life.” Caulder pushed his chair out and turned toward her, leaning his elbow on the table.

  “Yeah, I bet you did everything you were accused of, didn’t you?” Velia’s cheeks flushed again because she openly flirted with him this time.

  “You bet.” He winked then smiled like he got caught licking the frosting bowl.

  It got her thinking. Maybe he was on to something. What harm could it be to let Alice think something went on between them? At least she wouldn’t sit around and worry she was going to be without a man. She whispered to Caulder. “I guess a woman married for fifty years doesn’t know any other way. Her life is with a husband, and it’s hard for her to realize any other life.” She noticed an elderly guest with an empty glass and took the pitcher of water over to refill it.

  * * *

  Caulder peered at her when she smiled at him before walking away. He caught her wink from across
the room, becoming engrossed in the glow of her dark, exotic eyes full of expression. Why would he care if someone thought something might be going on between them? It had been a long time since he was attracted to another woman. He liked the warm surge of emotion flowing over his body when she smiled. At times he detected a hint of surrender, like she wanted to let her guard down when he touched her. It brought excitement to his world to think one day it might happen. But then again, how would he concentrate on his job when the sight of her consumed him?

  His gaze raked over her as she fluttered around the room, making sure everyone was taken care of. Again, his eyes caught the shadow from her cleavage she didn’t seem aware of, the soft mounds of flesh innocently peeking out, asking to be stroked.

  Caulder discreetly ran his hand over the front of his pants when he twitched. He smiled, knowing he was going to enjoy the ride with this Italian spitfire. There was nothing he could do to wipe the smile off his face when she walked toward him, but he would try. The closer she came the more he admired the spark in her eyes, the way they glimmered in the candlelight. The way it caught the highlights in her hair, making him want to reach out and touch her soft waves, to touch her…

  * * *

  “Okay, where was I?” Velia searched her memory for what they were talking about before she walked away. “Oh, yeah, the anniversary, of course!” She giggled. “Unlike Alice, I have another life.” She nudged his arm.

  “Ah, what? Yeah...” He rested his hand on her arm.

  Velia’s thoughts ran rampant. “I have my independence and plan on keeping it.” This year would be a fun job. But afterward, she would come back to her little shop and pick up where she left off. Brian would be building the business. Maybe she’d make him a partner before leaving. And maybe Caulder’s touch would stop sending her brain into a spin. If only he’d stop staring directly into her eyes.

  She sighed. “I have to go.” Velia went to the kitchen to get the rest of the food together. The guests looked happy. Alice and Edward said they were delighted, and when she looked out, Caulder seemed pleased talking to her father. “Now talk about scary.”

  She went back to her menu. There were a couple people she knew from her photo jobs who came in to help. She had made a lot of friends since she moved to Tucson. Not much Italian influence out here, so she became a hit when she started bringing food to parties, or baby and wedding showers. It didn’t take long before the word got around Velia Armano could cook. So tonight she prepared something she thought wouldn’t be too harsh on the elderly diet. She made Champagne Chicken with Parmesan Linguine as one course.

  After dinner, she was overwhelmed with compliments about her food. She lifted her glass of champagne in a toast to the fifty-year anniversary. Her father stood at her side while Caulder sat at the table watching. He watched everything she did. Velia glanced his way often and whenever she did, his eyes were on her. Or were her eyes on him?

  It was time for the happy couple to dance. Rose Marie found a copy of the song they danced to at their wedding and what a surprise it turned out to be, even bringing tears to Alice’s eyes. Rose Marie and her husband took the microphone from the bandleader, and her brother and his wife stood beside her. “Mom and Dad, we love you. Congratulations on your fiftieth wedding anniversary.”

  Velia’s father came over and put his arm around her. “Your cowboy seems to mellow out when he’s around you. I think he’s starting to like you, my dear. What are your plans on this matter?”

  “I can’t see him in any way other than my boss. I can’t do my job right if I let myself get swept away by a Stetson and chaps.”

  Her father raised his hands as he spoke. “Buona fortuna con quello.”

  “Good luck with that?” She repeated his words. “Why do you say good luck?”

  “I see the way he looks at you.”

  “You’re not helping.” Velia turned back toward the kitchen.

  “And I see the way you look at him.” He caught up to her and took her hand.

  She let him talk, not happy if the look in her eyes gave way to any feeling she might have for Caulder.

  He followed her into the kitchen. “Look at yourself in the mirror, kitten.”

  “Stop it, Dad. Don’t put ideas in my head. Do you honestly think I want to be with another man after Justin…especially so soon? I can’t deal with a relationship right now.”

  “Pay attention. That’s all I try to point out to you.”

  Velia smiled at the way his Italian dialect slipped out with his excitement. “Si, I will.”

  “He’s coming your way. I hear the music playing.”

  “Well, good. Go dance with ma!”

  “Si, my lovely daughter.” He chuckled. “I shall do as you say, yes.”

  Caulder stood in front of Velia and pointed toward the dance floor. She glanced at her father and watched a smile break out on his face. She took Caulder’s hand. He led her to the center and held his arm around her. She gingerly rested her hand on his shoulder then wrapped her fingers around his nape. He pulled her a little closer and moved to the soft sounds of the song, “Someday My Prince Will Come.”

  “It’s hard to dance to this music. Not exactly what I’m used to,” she whispered, standing close enough to smell his cologne.

  Caulder spoke low. “Shh, close your eyes and follow my lead.”

  She succumbed to his embrace, resting her head against his chest, standing straighter to be nearer his shoulder. His scent enticed her closer, the same sultry fragrance he wore when they met. She closed her eyes and let him take her away in dance. She wanted to remain in this position, enjoyed being held. Could the others be right? She caught sight of her bare ring finger then straightened and moved her head from his shoulder. Although it was a good thing, and she wasn’t second-guessing anything, she still felt overwhelmed with the loss of a relationship. Albeit she had no love left for Justin, she mourned something. She couldn’t tell exactly what, but a feeling of loss lingered.

  “Everything okay?” Caulder held her tight around the waist and whispered close to her ear.

  “A sudden memory is all.” Velia leaned against him once again.

  “Have no fear tonight. Let me help you escape for a time.” He lowered his voice to a near whisper. “No ties, no bounds. One warm body to hold you on the dance floor is all. Enjoy it until it’s over.” Caulder squeezed her hand a little tighter and pulled her closer against him. “Let yourself go for now. Give yourself a sense of peace, even for a short time. I promise that’s all. Let me show you some comfort…for tonight.”

  Velia relaxed when they played the next song— “You’re Just Too Good to Be True.” She let him hold and guide her in dance. He was right. No bindings, no ties, just a warm body to hold. She closed her eyes and held him tighter while they swayed to the music. She opened her eyes once and saw her parents dancing beside her. They both smiled and Velia closed her eyes, wishing the music hadn’t come to an end.

  She left his arms, his hand lingering around hers as she moved away. Shaking her hand free, she immediately went to the kitchen. She checked the desserts and set them on trays. There were cookies and biscotti served with red wine, other various desserts paired with wine, coffee and tea, and soda for the kids.

  Lidia put her arm around her daughter. “I’m so impressed, bella ragazza mia. You should be working at the restaurant. Come, stay with us and work part time when you return.”

  “Ma, I already discussed this issue with Dad. I have to do what I’m doing. I can’t go back there yet. I’d love to, but it’s just not the right time. I need to be on my own now since I found freedom again.” She took her mother’s hands. “Please give me this.”

  “Of course I give you this, child. I would not cheat you out of a life you love.”

  Velia changed the subject. “So, what do you think of Alice and Edward? Nice people, eh.”

  “What a wonderful couple, and I won’t worry while you’re with them. I think Dio was looking out for you w
hen He brought you here, even if it is so far away from Chicago and family. I prayed you would be happy.”

  “Yes, ma, I also pray daily for guidance.” Velia hugged her mother and caught a glimpse of Caulder standing with Nero. They talked together as if they knew each other. Was Nero a fan of bull riding? “I highly doubt it.” Velia headed over. “You two look like old friends.”

  “Nice to see you again, Velia. I do watch bull riding on occasion. I’ve seen your cowboy here ride a few times. He’s good.” Nero left when Ric motioned him over.

  “Everyone seems to think I’m your cowboy.”

  “I’m sorry.” Velia glanced to the floor.

  Caulder pushed her shoulder in a friendly manner. “Don’t be sorry. It’s a pleasant thought.”

  “I see.” Velia folded her arms. Warmth covered her body. If only she had a love so noticeable, others observed it in her eyes. She wanted to glow with the feeling of love, respect, caring, and companionship. Maybe it wasn’t for her. Some people were perfectly happy single. It worked before Caulder McCutchen came into her life. This will be a long nine months. She released a stressful breath. “I’m going to see about cleaning up.”

  “Need some help?” Caulder caught her sleeve.

  “Um, my mom and Rose Marie are going to help. Sit down and relax. You’ve done more than a guest should do tonight.”

  “I didn’t mind, but if you don’t need me, I’ll go outside and look at the stars.”

  “Okay.” Velia headed toward the kitchen, turning when she got to the doorway. Apparently he did as he said. He exited the hall and went outside. “Why would he look at the stars?”

  * * *

  After everything was cleaned up and put away, Velia handed out extra dessert to the guests to take home. She had a special plate made for herself and Caulder if he wanted to come to her parent’s hotel for dessert and wine.