“Don’t overdo it, Allie Cat. Sick or pregnant, you still need to take care of yourself,” he told her, still concerned. He bent his head, giving her a final kiss for the night. “I’ll see you in the morning.”
Her head tilted, a question she seemed hesitant to ask on the tip of her tongue. “Come to bed with me, please. I need you near me.”
“I’ll be there,” he answered. They hadn’t shared a bed since that night a month ago. Despite knowing nothing sexual would happen, he couldn’t help the rush of blood. He loved her, and a night of holding her was a night well spent.
He locked the front door and turned off the lights. His stomach growled again, letting him know he’d not eaten since the early afternoon. Ignoring it, he went to the bedroom, the hunger for Allie a stronger need. Stripping down to just his jeans, he climbed under the covers. It would be a long, uncomfortable night, but not as much as sleeping in the nude next to her with no possibility of release.
His arms sought the warmth of her body, pulling her against him. The fabric of her pajamas was thin, and he could feel the heat of her flesh against his chest. With one hand, he traced letters on her back spelling out I love you.
“Goodnight, Allie Cat.”
“Why have you always called me that?” she asked. “Alley cats make me think of a scrawny, mangy cat going around bugging everyone, being a nuisance. Is that how you see me?”
“I never thought of you like that. Promise not to laugh if I tell you the reason?”
“I promise,” she acknowledged then rolled to face him.
He sighed, of all things, feeling embarrassed. “Before Missy and her dad moved here, you wanted to do everything with me, but that stopped when Missy showed up. Suddenly it was dolls and tea parties, all the stuff I had no interest in. You were my best friend and I was losing you to Missy. I thought if I did what you wanted and showed you attention you’d come back to me, like an alley cat. In my head, I started calling you Allie Cat, and over the years it just stuck.”
He expected her to laugh and poke fun at him, but true to her word she didn’t. “So all those years when you acted like you hated Missy, you were just jealous?” she asked, just now seeing the obvious from years ago.
“You could say that, but what did I know? I was just a kid.”
“Want to know a secret?”
“What?”
“She could never take your place, not even then. I thought you stopped hanging out with us because of the ‘girls have cooties’ stage.”
“No, I was just young and dumb.”
“I love you, Jase.”
“I love you too, Allie. Goodnight.” He kissed the tip of her nose, then gently prodded her so she rolled over and nested her back against his chest again. Long into the night he laid there, thankful for the road that led him to this moment. Few people ever experienced falling in love like this; being with someone who’d been an integral part of their entire life, a best friend, a soul mate.
Sleep must have finally taken over, because when he awoke, the sun was shining, which meant he was running late. In the night, Allie had turned toward him, facing him with a tranquil quality about her. The rays bursting through the curtain touched her face, illuminating her in a sun-kissed glow. Despite the need to get out of bed he lingered, watching her- the rise and fall of her chest, the way her nose occasionally twitched, the way her fingers unconsciously drew circles on the sheet even as she slept.
His phone rang loudly from another room. Unwillingly, he rolled out of bed and went to answer it. Without looking, he knew it was his dad calling. They had a big time potential buyer coming later this morning and, as much as he hated to leave Allie, he couldn’t shirk his responsibilities.
“I’ll be there in twenty minutes,” he answered his phone without a greeting.
“How’s Allie feeling?” his dad asked.
“Better, I guess. She’s still sleeping.”
“Good. Now get over here as soon as you can. There are a few things I’d like to discuss before Monroe shows up.”
“Be right there.”
Returning to the bedroom, he gave Allie a subtle shake. Groggily she looked up, smiling when she saw him.
“I’m late meeting my dad. How are you feeling?” he asked hastily, needing to leave but wanting to ensure she was feeling better.
“Okay, I guess, but I’ve been awake less than half a minute,” she responded cracking a half smile.
“You know where to find me if you feel worse. I’ll see you tonight,” he told her, bending down to kiss her goodbye.
“Good luck with the sale today.”
“Thanks. I’ll see you later.”
“Bye.”
Concentrating on work all day was a difficult task. Allie never strayed from his thoughts, whether in pondering the possibility of a child, wondering how she was feeling or simply reveling in the openness of sharing a love with each other that went beyond a friendship.
Adam Monroe arrived early, just after Jase finished working Lightning. The timing was perfect, drawing the potential buyer into a keen interest in the newest stud. By late afternoon, a hefty transaction had been completed, with the promise to return when Lightning and Cinnamon produced a foal.
The day had proved productive, but he was ready to get home to his wife. He was looking forward to his first real date with her. Strange, how they’d gone out so many times before but had kept their relationship on a platonic level, despite both having deeper feelings. Funny how life had a way of working these things out when the time was right.
And the main purpose for going to town. He’d be lying if he said he wasn’t nervous. The idea of being a dad thrilled and terrified him at the same time. Absolutely, he knew Allie would be a great mom, and he liked to think he’d be a good dad, but the responsibility was tremendous. What did he know about babies? Cody was the only one he’d ever been around, but had never had to take responsibility for him. Hell, he’d never even baby-sat for him because his parents always stepped in when Lanie needed someone.
“Go home, Son. I can tell your mind is elsewhere today,” his father spoke up. “All that’s left is recording these numbers on the computer, and I can take care of that.”
“Thanks dad. I’ll make it up to you,” he promised.
“I was young and in love once also. Still am, actually.”
“Young or in love?” Jase teased.
“Ask your mama,” his dad returned with a wink.
Jase grabbed his hat from the desk corner and started the trek to his cabin. Today, more than ever, he needed that walk in the clean, spicy air to organize his thoughts. He hadn’t talked to Allie since this morning, but he’d seen her with a group of guests. Her color had returned to normal and she appeared to be feeling much better. It was already five o’clock when he left from the main lodge and he was already a little behind his planned schedule. Seemed to be the story of his day.
The door to his cabin was unlocked, indicating Allie was already there as he suspected.
“I’m home,” he called out.
Allie came out from the bedroom, still in work clothes, her face crestfallen.
“What’s wrong sweetheart,” he asked, reaching her side in two long strides. At a closer view, he could tell by her reddened eyes she’d been crying.
“It’s dumb really,” she muttered.
“Nothing that can make you cry is dumb,” he objected.
“Let’s just say there’s no reason to go into town.”
His eyes narrowed, confused. “What do you mean? I thought we had a dinner date and we’re going to stop by the drug store.”
“Please don’t make me spell it out,” she pleaded.
“I’m sorry, Allie. I’m a guy; we don’t always understand these things.”
Her cheeks turned red, matching the rimmed eyes. “I’m not pregnant, okay. I got my…” She turned from him, muffling the rest of her sentence.
Like someone flipped a switch, understanding dawned on him. He wrap
ped her in his arms protectively, possessively. “I’m sorry,” he whispered to her. The disappointment he felt was unexpected.
“I told you it was silly. Yesterday morning the thought of a baby never crossed our minds, but now that I know there isn’t one, I feel let-down,” she confided.
“I understand,” he told her. “The idea was growing on me also.”
Allie turned in his arms to face him. There were questions in her eyes, questions to which the answers were easy.
“This doesn’t change anything I said yesterday,” he assured her, smoothing a wayward strand of her hair. “I loved you yesterday and I love you today. That’s never going to change.”
Leaning her head against him, she released a sigh of relief. “My heart knew that, but my head still needed to hear it.”
“Can I still take you on a date?” he asked.
For the first time since he came home, she smiled. “I’d like that.”
“What do you say we drive a little further and go someplace a little nicer than the diner to celebrate us,” he suggested.
“I say yes. Just give me a few minutes to get ready.”
While Allie was in the bathroom, he changed into better clothes; a pair of dark denims and a black western shirt. He pulled on his boots, but changed his mind and put on the ones from Missy and Charlie’s wedding. Satisfied he’d make Allie proud, he went and sat at the table flipping through a magazine, waiting for Allie.
“Ready?” she asked a half hour later.
He swallowed, rendered speechless. Allie wore a brown dress, with a V-neck top, which hinted of her cleavage while still maintaining a sexy modesty. Turquoise accents trimmed the edges and it stopped right above her knees, accentuating long, toned legs. She’d left her hair completely down, nothing restraining a tendril of it.
“Ready,” he answered huskily. “Let’s go celebrate.”
Packing the final items in her suitcase, Allie couldn’t believe she was finally getting her chance to go the Teton Sunset Bed and Breakfast. She’d met the owner, Mrs. Teagan, at a hospitality conference several years back and they’d formed a close bond. Ever since, Allie had wanted to go stay at the older lady’s inn, but there had never been an opportunity. It was touted as the most romantic inn surrounding the Grand Tetons, one of the few bed and breakfasts’ with a direct view of the majestic peaks. Plus, she supposed it came with the job, but she was fascinated by other lodgings and staying there with Jase was a dream come true
“Are you sure we’re doing the right thing accepting this gift?” she questioned Jase, still uncomfortable with the false pretense she’d had them present to their parents, despite the direction their relationship was taking.
She felt a blush rising again. In her suitcase was new lingerie bought just for this occasion. That night in Vegas felt like a lifetime ago, and a lifetime was entirely too long to go without making love with Jase. Especially with the newfound confidence between them. Blissful was the only word she could think of to describe the last few weeks. As friends, they’d always been very close but as husband and wife, they’d found a connection to surpass even that. Jase made her believe in love and goodness.
“I still plan on paying them back the costs, but I think we should enjoy this. A whole week away from here doesn’t happen very often. Call me selfish, but I’m looking forward to a week of just you,” he answered, giving her a seductive smile. He pressed his body against her, taking her in a drawn out kiss, promising more to come.
Breathless, she broke away. “If we don’t stop now, we won’t make it to the honeymoon,” she managed to say.
“Sweetheart, we are way beyond the honeymoon,” Jase moaned, but backed away and picked up their suitcases.
She felt his agony. The past week had been torture. There was no logical reason why they couldn’t make love, but one of them had thought it a good idea to wait until this trip to make it special. Each night she lay in bed, feeling Jase near her, unable to remember which one of them thought of the plan or why they hell they had agreed to wait.
The drive to the Tetons wasn’t long and was filled with the wonderful views she loved. The town of Jackson Hole was busy; tourists and residents filling the streets, preparing for Fourth of July celebrations at the end of the week. Jase turned off several roads until coming to a sprawling property full of lodge pole pines. A large stone building stood splendidly at the center of attention. The inn was large, but still much smaller than the main lodge on Whispering Winds. After parking the truck, Jase came around to her side and opened her door.
Hand in hand, they walked inside. The inside was decorated with a rustic elegance, wrought iron accents contrasting smoothly against the stone. Whispering Winds was home and she loved it, but the graceful beauty of this inn was inspiring and auspicious.
“Allie, I’m so glad you could finally come visit us,” a gray-haired woman in her late sixties greeted them.
“Me too, Mrs. Teagan.” She gave the lady a hug, greeting her like an old friend.
“And who is this handsome, young cowboy you’ve brought with you,” Mrs. Teagan asked, pinching Jase’s cheek.
Jase’s face froze in a priceless contour and she could barely contain her mirth. Maybe she should have warned him about the old lady’s robust personality.
“This is my husband, Jase Callahan,” she introduced. “Jase, this is Mrs. Teagan, the woman you’ve heard all about.”
“My oh my. When your parents reserved your room they didn’t mention what an attractive man your husband was. If only I was forty years younger,” she observed, a mischievous wink passing from her to Allie.
In all the years she knew Jase, she’d never seen him blush until now. Finding his voice, he said, “nice to meet you, Mrs. Teagan. We’re looking forward to our stay here.”
“Let’s get the two of you checked in. Breakfast is served from six-thirty until eight-thirty every morning. If you don’t make it, there will be a reserve of various pastries left in the dining room. Do you have any special dietary needs to be met?” she asked.
“None,” Jase answered and she echoed.
“You will be staying in our Teewinot room, reserved especially for newlyweds. It is our only room with a private bath and also has a whirlpool tub. The housekeeper’s schedule for that room is ten every morning, but if you wish not to be disturbed, just turn the switch on the door above the deadbolt. We offer excursions packages and discounted tickets for local attractions. Though I’m sure you’re quite familiar with this area, please don’t hesitate to let any one of the staff know how we can make your stay exceptional.”
Allie smiled, listening to Mrs. Teagan’s spiel. How many times had she repeated a similar one? She had to admit, there was a certain thrill to being on the receiving end. Jase signed a paper and took the silver key for their room.
Alone in their room, they unpacked, making small talk. Allie took the last of her clothes from the suitcase and hung them in a closet to prevent wrinkling. She looked around, taking in her surroundings. The room was larger than she’d expected, but still cozy. Even in July, the temperatures would probably still drop low enough to use the fireplace. A king-sized bed, constructed of logs, took center stage in the room. A hearts in bloom quilt, with soft reds, pinks and creams covered the mattress. Two simple wrought iron sconces hung on either side of the bed.
A small table sat in the corner of the room with a tray on top, showcasing a bottle of champagne, chocolate covered strawberries and assorted cheeses with crackers. She went outside, standing on the balcony. Looking out to the soaring peaks, the mountains spoke to her and she wondered if there would ever come a time this landscape would cease to amaze her. Even at home, she never bored of seeing a similar view.
“Is it everything you thought?” Jase asked, coming up behind her and binding his arms around her waist.
“It’s perfect.” A mild breeze blew through and she settled against her husband. Time seemed to stand still as they looked out to the ancient range, rich with
history, while still maintaining a wild freedom. They became a symbol of her relationship with Jase. The history of their lives tied them to each other and now they were embarking on a new phase of married life that gave them a license to explore their wild abandon of love.
“I made dinner reservations for us tonight,” he told her, eventually breaking the poignant silence between them. His breath tickled her cheek with warm affection.
“Where?” she asked, turning to face him.
He named a popular restaurant she’d eaten at once before for lunch on a day trip with Missy. It opened during the day as a family friendly restaurant and reopened in the late evening hours for a romantic dining experience. Reluctant to leave her private sanctuary with Jase, but eager to spend time together as a real couple, she returned inside of their room. Changing into a comfortable dress that still flattered her figure, she threw on a light sweater to cover her arms.
One hand combed a brush through her hair, while the other unclipped a barrette. She laid the brush down and twisted her tresses into an up-do. As she lifted the clip, Jase intercepted her arm.
“Leave it down, please,” he requested, threading his fingers through her hair.
She laid down the barrette in silent acquiescence, indulging in the feel of his hands stroking her.
He stopped abruptly. “We better leave while we still can,” he murmured.
They left the bed and breakfast and drove into town. At the restaurant, Jase gave their name and they were escorted to a quiet, candlelit table. They sat side by side at the small table, their legs brushing under the table. A waiter offered a complimentary glass of house wine, but Jase declined and Allie followed his lead. Unadulterated male sensuality emanated from him and she knew what he was thinking- tonight, alone in their room, nothing would impair or them.
Distracted, she looked back to the menu. “What are you having?” she asked Jase.
“The buffalo rib eye. You?”
“I think the grilled salmon and risotto.”
His Heart to Have (Cowboys of Whispering Winds) Page 12
