Heartbreak's Reward (Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight Book 2)

by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel

  “You know,” she growled. Soon her sighs turned to whimpers and gasps, unable to control the spasms that broke out within her body. She couldn’t stop the shivers over her skin, and the trembling of her extremities. He took her to places she wanted to visit again and again. His satisfaction of a job well done burst through the sexy glint in the slits in his lazy gaze.

  When the quivering stopped, Jase lifted her from the water and they lay on the fluffy rug in the bathroom. He took her with loving force and she shrieked with muffled cries as he loved her right there on the floor like a wanton warrior starved for a hundred years.

  Brenna grabbed hold of his shoulders and brought him against her, and she grasped his hands as they rested on the floor above her head. Clenching and squeezing his fingers, until nothing existed except her body climbing to the peak of oblivion. Falling over the top and into sweet satisfaction, ending with a breathy sigh.

  Warm lips suckled her breasts—nipping, until he shouted out in an impassioned finale.

  In an exhausted collapse, he rolled partly off her. Brenna wrapped her arm around his waist and leaned her cheek against his hair, whispering, “Wild, out of this world is our lovemaking. Hallelujah. Almighty hell!”

  He spoke breathlessly. “We are…awesome together. Have been from the first time, okay the second. I love you a lot.” Recuperating for a short time—their skin chilled and he stood and pulled her to her feet. “We need to get moving you untamed woman.”

  “Yes, I take pride in that name now. You’ve done this to me, horse rancher.” She moved out of his arms and smacked him on the butt when she walked around him. “Coming?”

  “Yeah, of course. Dammit woman you rule my…everything.” He chased after her, grabbed her into his arms and carried her to the bed, falling beside her. Brenna pulled a sheet over them, snuggling, comforted in his arms and happy in love—satisfied in every way. “We can’t stay here long.”

  Brenna slid her fingers to his nape, fisting his hair. She brought his face to hers, crushing her mouth against his, mumbling, “I love you,” against their parted lips. “You rule me…own me. You know, don’t you?”

  “I sure do, and I’m mighty proud.” Jase held her, his head on her shoulder. With his lips against her neck, he said, “You brought me out of the fog I was lost in, rescued me, Miss Page. I wanted to fight it, but you made me powerless.”

  “Hold me, honey. Never let go.”

  “Only long enough to marry you.”

  “I’ll go with that,” said Brenna, smiling inside. His body against her said everything that needed to be said, but it was more than a hot body pressed tight against her. It was everything about him. Everything.

  “I need air, girl.” He moved off her and stretched out on his stomach. Brenna ran her finger over the tattoo on his back. “Tell me about this.”

  “Later,” he breathed out. “It’s not important why. No particular reason.”

  She caressed his back and squeezed his trapezoids, still amazed at his perfect physique. “You work hard for these muscles.”

  “Yes, I do, darlin’.” He moved to his side and put his arm around her waist. “I can’t tell you how much I loved this surprise. Pretty soon you’ll be in my bed every night. I’ll clear the office for Chloe’s bedroom, and set up our office in a corner of the dining room. Maybe later add an addition and a big family room, too.”

  “Thank you. Did anyone ever tell you, you’re a remarkable man?” She slid her hand up and down his arm, savoring the feel of his hard muscles under her fingers.

  “Does my mom count?”

  “Sort of. Who knows you better than her?” Brenna sighed. “She’s a fantastic lady and so welcoming. She’s taken me and Chloe into her family.” What if Judy hadn’t forced them together that night? What would life be like now? Nothing. She would have gotten through one day at a time like she had for the past two years. The only thing different would have been the scenery.

  He squeezed her arm. “What are you thinking?”

  “About how much I love you.” She peered at him and he laid his hand against her face.

  “Ah, you didn’t complain when I didn’t use protection. Aren’t you worried?”

  Brenna peered into his eyes. There were no words for her say. She shook her head no. “I started on birth control bills after the last time.”

  He nodded.

  “You must know I wouldn’t care if I had your baby. We’ll be married, and as far as I’m concerned for the rest of our lives. What happens, happens.” She paused. “I didn’t know if you’d want another child. Before knowing, the risk was too great to take a chance.”

  “What happens, happens, like you said. Let’s go with that for now, but if you want to try, I don’t mind if you stop taking the pills.” He laughed. “My mom thinks she doesn’t have enough grandkids as it is. Maybe she knows something else I don’t, again.”

  Brenna straddled his thighs and kissed him. “I agree. She does seem to know things. Now we need to get started on that life forever with step one.” She pulled the sheet off the bed and wrapped it around her then headed for the bathroom to find her clothes.

  Jase sat on the edge of the bed. “Nora said your sublet runs out in the beginning of October. Move in here.”

  She twirled around before reaching the door. “What?”

  “You heard me.” He got out of bed and pulled his jeans on. It only took a couple long strides to where she stood. “You and Chloe move in here.”

  He loosened the sheet and it dropped to the floor. “Of course I have to talk to Chloe. If I do before my lease runs out…well, I have to think about it.

  He took her hands. “At least give it a thought, doll. You heard Jae. She wants you to live here.”

  Brenna nodded.

  ***

  Later that night Jase drove the back way through the desert to his mom’s. “It’s too bad we couldn’t get the place we wanted, but the wedding chapel will work for us. You really okay with it, Bren?”

  “It’s a cute little place. Perfect for a small wedding and when it’s decorated it’ll be lovely. I’m happy with our choice.”

  At his mom’s ranch. Jase shut off the engine. “So, the eighth of October, Miss Brenna Page, consider yourself taken. And taken…and taken. It’ll seem like a long month and a half.” He winked before opening his door. When he came around to hers, he lifted her out of the truck. “I’m practicing for carrying you over the threshold.” He released her to the ground. When they got to the door he gave his special knock and entered.

  They went into the kitchen and everyone came out waiting for the news. He lifted his kids into his arms, and turned to Brenna. Her smile smacked him right in the face. Facing his family, he gave them the date and venue.

  Tristan patted him on the back. “Well, bro, it’s your turn for the champagne.” He took the bottle and nodded for everyone to go into the great room.

  Chloe went up to Brenna and hugged her. “I’m happy for you, sis.” Chloe sniffled. “Thank you for bringing us to Arizona.”

  Brenna teared up, and looked over her shoulder at Davy. “Get on over here, you.” When he came near, she pulled him into a hug, too, and squeezed them tight. “I love you two.”

  Chapter 32

  Brenna could barely contain her anxiety as she and Chloe waited for Lacy to call when she landed. Glancing at her sister, she realized her excitement as well.

  “Everything has changed since I came here, Bren. I’m not close to the same person I used to be. Lauren might not even like me anymore.”

  “I’ve changed too, but I bet Lacy won’t care. Lauren won’t either. I see us both as being better. Lauren’s a true friend to you.” Brenna laughed. “The first change they’ll both see is little old me in this big ass truck. It was nice of Jase to let me use it.”

  “Who you fooling? Don’t think for a minute he don’t like driving that pony of yours. Sis, it’s a babe magnet.”

  “It is? Now you tell me.” She lifted a brow. If sh
e couldn’t trust him by now, she’d never be able to. “I tell you what, Chloe. It’s a babe magnet, all right.” She winked when Chloe picked up on what she meant. “I saw Jase’s eyes light up the night I met him when he heard that horsepower.”

  “You’re so bad!” Chloe’s phone vibrated and she nearly dropped it when she read the text. They were waiting. “I can’t wait. Go, Brenna!”

  She pulled out and read the signs to the arrival area and searched for the airline. “I can’t wait to show Lacy my dress in person.” She lifted both hands off the steering wheel. “What am I talking about? I can’t wait for her to see Jase.”

  “I know! But, I mean Davy. No one back home would believe I hooked up with a cowboy. I’m still not sure Lauren believes me.”

  “Oh, she will before long.” No doubt she and Davy could barely keep their hands off one another, although Brenna appreciated they contained themselves around her most of the time.

  “Yeah, especially when Davy introduces her to his friend. He’s bringing him to the wedding so Lauren doesn’t have to sit alone. There they are— Pull over.” Chloe jumped out and ran up to Lauren before the truck got out of gear.

  Brenna came around and opened the back door. “No, girlfriend, you are not imagining this. I’m driving this badass 4x4!” She kicked her foot out. “Yes, cowboy boots and a short skirt.” She hurried to Lacy and hugged her. “It’s so great to see you. Thanks so much for coming.” She wrapped her arms around Lauren. “I’m happy to see you here, too. I’m glad your parents let you come.”

  Lacy hugged Brenna again. “Honey, I wouldn’t miss this for the world. I’m excited for you. So is everyone back home.”

  Brenna stood back and peered at her. “You’ve done something different to your hair. It’s longer, but darker. It looks great on you. It makes your green eyes pop.” Brenna spread her hands out in front of her. “You’re amazing.”

  “All I’m doing is toning up. Training with a boxer works wonders.” Brenna lowered the tailgate and helped load their luggage.” When Lacy held up her garment bag, Brenna squealed. “It’s your dress.” She held her head with both hands. “Oh, I’m so excited. I picked the orangey-red dress color for fall and to go with your blonde hair, but now you’re not as blonde.”

  Lacy had the biggest grin on her face. “Excited? You’re the one getting married. I can’t wait to see your dress…and your groom. From the pictures you sent he looks delicious.”

  “Oh, he is…in many ways. You’ll get no more out of me.” She leaned closer and whispered. “Even Chloe thinks he’s hot.” She lifted her ring finger and the sunlight enhanced the brilliance, giving off a blinding twinkle. Lacy screeched.

  “My goodness,” Lacy said as Chloe and Lauren climbed into the back seat. “Speaking of Chloe, she looks fantastic. So grown up. You two will look gorgeous walking down the aisle together.”

  “Come on, let’s get out of here. Jump on up there, girlfriend and I’ll try not to get us lost on the way home.” She winked. “I’m teasing, Lacy.” She peered at Lauren. “You’re so grown up, sweetie. Welcome to Arizona you two.” Brenna got behind the wheel and turned on the GPS. She sighed peacefully when she thought of Jase programing it for her. He didn’t want to take the chance of her getting lost and another good lookin’ cowboy coming to her rescue.

  ***

  When Brenna and the girls entered the wedding chapel two days later, she was thrilled with the way it turned out. The end chair of the first three rows had a bouquet of flowers of rich red and fiery orange roses. A variety of yellow, brown, green, amber, and russet colors were mixed-in, matching the colors in each of their bouquets. A white carpet ran the length leading to the altar. Two small vases of red and orange Asiatic lily’s and Tropicana roses that matched Brenna’s bouquet, sat in the front. The ceremony would be simple. The unity candle waited on the table, and candlelight would be used to enhance the low lighting in the place.

  “Come on, Brenna,” said Chloe. “You have to get into your dress.” She took her arm and pulled her into the bride’s room. Brenna turned and observed her sister. She was so attractive. The short, burnt orange dress fit her petite body like it had been painted on, yet, she still looked innocent enough. Brenna choked back the tears. Her make-up was done and no way did she want to meet Jase at the front with brown-black mascara running down her cheeks.

  Lacy came up and hugged her. “You’ll be so lovely.” She made Brenna sit for a minute. “I tell ya what, Bren. With this Carlson family as good looking as they are, if you ever have a kid, watch out. You’ll be beating off their suitors.”

  She took a big breath and tried to relax which was impossible. “You remember Jase has another brother—a soldier but not here today. He looks a little different. His hair is light. Maybe he’s an inch shorter than the other two, but he’s solid muscle. Still the same blue eyes. There’s a cousin, too.” She laughed in jest. “They’re all taken, except for the little brother.” Brenna shrugged. “I still think Jase is the best, though.”

  Chloe rolled her eyes. “Here we go again.” There was a knock on the door and Chloe opened it and peeked through. Nora entered with Destiny and Jaelle. “Brenna, look at how cute they are. Destiny, you’re wearing cowboy boots with your dress. So cute.” She knelt and brushed Destiny’s hair over her shoulders. “Brenna wouldn’t let me wear mine.” Chloe turned and hugged Jaelle. “You’re so pretty, little almost sister. I love your white dress with the sash the same color as my dress. I can’t wait to see Joey in his black suit, too.”

  “Come here, you two.” Brenna peered at Nora. “Thank you for bringing them in here.” She turned her attention back to the kids. “You want to hang around? I’m ready to put on my wedding gown.”

  Jaelle leaned against her and wrapped her arms around her. “I do. I won’t tell my daddy what it looks like.”

  “Me too,” said Destiny. “I’m good at keeping secrets.” She turned. “Huh, Nora-Mom.”

  “Yes, you are, sweetie.” Nora kissed Destiny on the cheek.

  Lacy unzipped the bag, revealing Brenna’s simple white satin, floor-length gown with a fit and flare style. It had a matching ribbon sash and a sweetheart neckline. “Oh, my goodness, Lacy. It’s more beautiful than I remember. I love the simplicity of it, too.”

  “Get in it, honey, we’re running out of time.”

  Brenna and Lacy went into the small room. Brenna undressed in front of the mirror and slipped into her dress. She adjusted the sweetheart neckline and Lacy helped with the glittering sash and zipped up the back. Wow. I’m a bride. I’m marrying Jase. Omigod, it’s real. She clenched her hands at her throat. “Everything is almost perfect.” Brenna looked away from the mirror and turned to Lacy—her lip curled and her brow furrowed.

  “Oh, no, what’s wrong, Bren.”

  She dropped her gaze to the floor and took Lacy’s hands. “I knew this day would come. My dad wouldn’t be walking me down the aisle. No Mom waiting in the front row. No Jordann. It hurts, you know. It’s not fair.”

  Lacy embraced her. “I know. But you have the ideal man waiting at the other end. Can you think about him? He loves you, and anyone can tell when he looks at you. I’m sure your parents are up there smiling down on you and Chloe right now. You two have made it.” Lacy bawled.

  Brenna sniffled and reached for a tissue, handing one to Lacy. “I know.” She dabbed the corner of her eyes. “I can’t keep crying. If I do, Chloe will. Then I might not be able to stop.”

  “Take a deep breath. Get your heels on, honey, so you can reach that man’s lips when he kisses his bride.”

  “Oh, girlfriend, you’ll get me going again. I’m trying not to cry. My man’s lips.” Brenna took a deep breath. “I’m ready. As soon as I look at Chloe I’ll lose it.” Lacy pulled the door open and took Brenna’s arm.

  She stepped out and Judy was there, too. She told Brenna that Jase’s aunt and uncle and his cousin Caulder and Velia had arrived. It brought a smile to Brenna’s face because she knew that
Jase and Tristan were close to him and his family. The fact he was the one who reunited Jase and his kids, he’d always hold a special place in this family’s heart.

  Nora brought her hand to her chest and smiled. “Oh, Jase will be one happy groom. You look fabulous, Brenna.”

  “Thank you, Nora.” She rested her eyes on her sister and she was already crying. Oh, no here it comes. “Chloe, I can’t cry.” She peered at Lauren. “No, not you too.” Brenna took a hold of Jaelle and Destiny’s hands. “Can you two say something funny, so I don’t cry and mess up my face?”

  “You’re pretty,” said Jaelle. “I know that’s not funny, but you are pretty like a Barbie doll.”

  It was enough to make Brenna laugh. “Thanks!”

  “Brenna, my daddy is waiting for you,” said Jaelle. “I can tell you he looks nice in his black suit.” She kicked out one foot and looked up with the biggest grin.

  “Okay, honey, I’m waiting for your daddy, too, and can’t wait to see him in his black suit.” She pulled Jaelle against her, and whispered, “You’re so lovely today, Jaelle.” I love her already. Brenna released her. “Oh, no. There goes the music. We better do this,” she said fanning her eyes. She looked at everyone.

  Judy hugged her and said she was going to her seat because she’d be crying too before long. She took Jaelle’s hand. “Let’s go to your daddy, sweetie pie.”

  When everyone left, Brenna said to Destiny, “When we get to the door, you go first and Lacy will follow you. Everything good?”

  “Yep, ma’am. I practiced.”

  “Walk slow, honey, and I’ll be behind you.” Lacy turned to Brenna. “Well, best friend. This is a dream you and I talked about a long time ago. I love you like a sister, but your man awaits.” She held out her hand to Destiny. A knock on the door interrupted them. Lacy opened the door a crack and peeked out the opening. She peered over her shoulder at Brenna and Chloe with a very big grin on her face. “Ah, Bren, someone wants to see you…”