It was late and cold, and no one was in sight. Emmy bluntly broached the topic that Jordan had evaded all along. “I’m sure you’ve kissed women in public before, but I guess you haven’t done so in Oakville.”
Jordan’s head snapped up, and Emmy could see nervousness with desire smoldering underneath. Jordan stepped forward, leaned down, cupped her face, and kissed her. Emmy was delighted when Jordan’s mouth parted, inviting her inside. The passionate kiss set Emmy’s senses ablaze. She was already looking forward to the next one.
Jordan stepped back. “It’s late. You had better get in your car before you freeze to death, but I want to see you again.”
“I’d like to see the brave Jordan again.”
Jordan’s lopsided grin appeared. “I’m off in a couple of days and planned to hit the spa. Sort of a pre-Christmas present to myself. Meet me there and I’ll treat.”
“Hand me your phone.” Emmy punched in her number. “Call me tomorrow with the details.” She let her fingers mingle over Jordan’s when handing it back.
“I look forward to the occasion.”
Satisfied that she had melted a little bit of Jordan’s hard exterior, Emmy jumped into the car and cautiously moved along the snow-packed road. Glancing in the rearview mirror, she saw Jordan watching her drive away.
Chapter Seven
The spa was a definite need today. Jordan had strained a few muscles the day before helping the crew restock the pantry and refrigerator, and no matter how much she stretched, she ached. Yet, nothing was going to slow her down. She was meeting Emmy. Being a weekday, no other clients would likely disrupt their privacy, but Jordan wanted to make sure. She bought the works, paid a fat tip, and reminded the spa owner of a favor past due.
Entering the hot tub room in a soft, fluffy oversized robe, she eyed Emmy lying back, her arms resting on the tub rim. When she disrobed, she liked how Emmy’s eyes looked over her body. At the same time, Jordan admired Emmy’s creamy breasts, scarcely covered by her swimsuit.
“By the way, when you’re not in your chef jacket and dress slacks, why do you hide under those baggy gym clothes? You’ve got a body most women would kill for.”
“I like to be comfortable. And it’s been awhile since I’ve had a good reason.”
Emmy seemed to relish making her squirm, and she liked it. While she had been the pursuer in past relationships, the idea of Emmy chasing after her was simultaneously terrifying and exhilarating.
“So, how long have you worked in the banking business?”
Emmy handed her a water bottle as she slid into the tub. “Too long and I find talking about work boring. Tell me about your life in Spain.”
“It was a desire to learn about my father’s heritage and, of course, the cuisine.”
“And? Certainly being a chef is not your entire life. Tell me about your adventures.”
“I loved hiking the Sierra de Guadarrama. So serene and a great variety of terrain for all levels. And the museums and all the little galleries are fun.”
Emmy perked up. “Yes, I loved the small local art galleries. What about concerts and the clubs? The nightlife in Madrid is one of the best in Europe.”
Taking a swig of water, Jordan tried to sound unruffled. “I’d go to the clubs every now and then.”
“Bailamos was my go-to place when I was in town.”
Jordan instantly choked and coughed multiple times. Emmy slid over to make sure she was okay.
“Water just went down the wrong hole.” Jordan cleared her throat. “All better.” Yet she was flustered because Emmy had mentioned the number one lesbian club in Madrid—a club Jordan frequented for hookups before her relationship with Luciana and after their breakup.
“I don’t want to give you the wrong impression like I’m some player cruising for hookups,” Emmy said. “I love the music, and my wife loved to dance.”
Emmy had been married!
Emmy’s radiance drifted away, and her tone grew serious. “We were together for twelve years. She was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer and died six years ago. I didn’t want to spoil the mood the other night at Lost Dog since we were having such a good time. Does it upset you that I didn’t mention her until now?”
“Of course not.” Jordan could see the hurt in Emmy’s eyes and grasped her hand. “I’m sorry. I can’t imagine how hard that was for you.”
“Life goes on.” Emmy’s look softened. “I know she wouldn’t want me to get bogged down in sorrow, yet dating hasn’t been on the forefront of my life. I’ve put too much time in at work and need to change.”
“Me too. I need to slow down and enjoy myself more.”
“Can I assume there will be more endings like the other evening?” Emmy’s fingertips lightly touched the side of Jordan’s hand. “I like the outgoing Jordan with the soft lips.”
Jordan’s gaze lingered, and her heart fluttered as time seemed to stand still. She said at last, “I can arrange that,” but the tender moment was interrupted by the attendant.
“Ladies, you don’t want to turn into prunes. Would you like to move into the relaxation room?”
“Shall we?” Emmy stood giving Jordan a full view of her body.
“That’s…that’d be wonderful,” Jordan said.
When Jordan hadn’t moved a muscle, Emmy leaned over. Her ample cleavage tantalizingly close to Jordan’s face, and she whispered, “I can’t carry you. Besides, if you want more, you’ll have to participate in the chase.” She winked and got out of the hot tub.
They moved into the relaxation room where the smell of sandalwood drifted through the air, and a soft flute and waterfall sound played in the background. Attendants placed warm blankets on them and brought them juice of their choice. Jordan selected pineapple and Emmy chose mango.
Jordan had to muster up some courage after Emmy’s touching and honest revelation. She sat up and felt her body tense. Emmy’s expression changed to one of concern. Willing her voice to hold out, Jordan said, “I was in a relationship in Spain. Unfortunately, I was the only one who was serious. My family never knew about her. Actually, I’ve never told them I’m a lesbian.” Jordan took a deep breath and gradually blew it out. “I have a shitload of guilt, but every time I thought about coming out, I got scared. Scared about my business being harmed. Scared of my one brother, who would go off the cliff and drag a few other family members with him.” Karen’s face flashed through her mind. “There was an accident way in the past.” Her stomach clinched. Let it go. Breathe. “But as you said, life goes on. I’ve wasted too much time beating myself up and worrying about others. My fortieth birthday is next month. I was thinking, might as well break the news to as many as possible in one shot.” Her wry laugh did nothing to hide her conflicted thoughts.
Emmy wet her lips and reached out for Jordan’s hand. “You haven’t exactly been waving the rainbow flag. I know it’s hard, but trust me, you will feel better living in your own skin. You’re charming and fun to be around, but I want to be in a relationship out in the open. No secrets from family and friends.”
Jordan tightened her jaw at Emmy’s words and her stomach fell. Emmy scooted closer and reached up and brushed Jordan’s cheek with the back of her hand.
“I didn’t want the night at the saloon to end. And of course, you’re sexy. So, if you’re sincere about coming out soon, how about we go on some dates? I know we keep running into one another, but let’s call it what it is. See where it goes.”
Relief and excitement surged through Jordan, and she reached for Emmy’s hand. Their fingers intertwined briefly before they settled back in the loungers. The door opened, and an attendant approached.
“Ladies, are you doing okay? Can I get you anything?”
“We’re good.” Jordan rushed the words out, and the attendant left.
Emmy chuckled. “You don’t like to share your dates with anyone do you?”
“I’ll take as much time alone with you as possible. So, new topic. If you don’t mind me aski
ng, how did your family handle it when you came out?”
“My father had a little difficulty with the idea at first. Of course, our family is Catholic, which I no longer practice. Surprisingly, my stepmother didn’t have much of an issue, even though she and I disagreed on many things. Almost two years into our relationship, we joined my family in the Lake District. It was the first time my brother Christian had met Heather. He wrapped his arms around her like she was a long-lost family member and proceeded to tease me about how I had hooked up with such an elegant woman. His attitude opened the door for my father, and from that day forward, he never once voiced his discomfort.”
Jordan told her about her brothers, and how Gerry was a right-wing jackass most of the time. “He’s always stirring the pot. Carter’s always handing him his ass, and Mother’s always stepping in.” She laughed off the seriousness of the family drama. “How well do you get along with your brother?”
“Unfortunately, our relationship is estranged. I used to look up to Christian. He is a successful architect, typically a fun guy to be with, married, and loves everyone.” Her eyes fluttered, and she sighed. “As in, he has multiple affairs. He seems to follow the Old European male chauvinist bullshit when it comes to his wife. I caught him a couple of times and the last time was on his veranda screwing the maid. To cut to the chase, I ended up telling his wife and suggested couples therapy. He denied it, she stuck by him, and they both stopped talking to me.” Emmy’s face twisted with emotion. “I never cheated on Heather. Christian’s selfish carelessness pisses me off because it disrespects our family. His wife is an idiot for staying with him and only doing so because of the money. But it’s not my problem anymore.”
Before Emmy could tell her any more, the attendants returned. “Ladies, it’s time to move to your massage rooms.”
****
“Oh wow, that felt great. Thank you for paying. That was a very generous gift.” Emmy brushed her hand over Jordan’s shoulder as they walked to their cars.
“My pleasure.”
Emmy stepped closer. “Now about our date. When can we get together?”
Jordan leaned up against Emmy’s car. “I’d like to take you out to dinner. There’re several good restaurants in Redington, but my schedule’s a nightmare until after New Year’s. We will have to play it by ear. I do hope you will drop by my restaurant more often.”
“I will.”
“Do you have specific holiday plans?”
“No, other than shuttling Betty Jean around. I do have a friend coming to visit after New Year’s. She is supposed to help me apartment shop. I’ll have to bring her by.”
Jordan felt a tinge of jealousy. She hadn’t thought of the possibility of Emmy having a friend with benefits. Perhaps she was jumping to conclusions.
As if reading her mind, Emmy grinned. “Becca has been one of my closest friends for over twenty years. She is not a love interest.” The conversation dangled on a bit of mystery when she added, “I wouldn’t be surprised if you already knew a bit about her.”
The statement was odd, but Jordan was relieved that the friend would not be a contender for Emmy’s affection.
Before Jordan could reply, Emmy’s phone rang. “Hi, Auntie. What’s up? Uh-huh…I’m leaving town soon…No problem. Milk and fresh green peppers, got it. Oh, do you mind if I invite a guest for dinner? Okay, bye. Love you.” Emmy slipped the phone into her back pocket. “It will be a perfect nightcap to my evening if you are able to join us.”
Like the other night, Jordan didn’t want their time to end. “Lead the way.”
****
Emmy and Jordan burst into the house laughing. Betty Jean bolted upright. Her reading glasses bounced off her head, and her book landed on the floor.
“Goodness gracious! Can’t you girls be quiet? I think you might have woken up the neighbors down the road.”
“Sorry to have scared you, Auntie.”
“Sorry for the rudeness, Betty Jean.”
Emmy pulled Jordan into the kitchen and stole a quick peck on the lips. Jordan’s heart jumped when Betty Jean rounded the corner.
“Pour me an iced tea, please. Still got more than an hour on dinner, but maybe you girls can help me.”
“Sure. What can we do?” Jordan said.
Unexpectedly, Emmy thrust the tea into Betty Jean’s hands. “Let’s go, Jordan. She’s head chef.” Emmy spun on her heels, and walked out.
Betty Jean stood with her hands on her hips. “Oh, I’ve got it under control. Go on, skedaddle.”
Jordan scrunched her eyebrows. “What just happened?”
Betty Jean chuckled. “Emmy was banned from the kitchen a long time ago. A word from the wise, don’t let her cook or you’ll be in the hospital. Your cookin’ is to die for. I suspect Emmy will be visiting your restaurant more often and bringing me home her leftovers. Of course, they’ll be cold because she seems to like to spend time fawning over you.”
Jordan’s mouth dropped. “Okay.”
Betty Jean slapped her hand on her thigh and rolled into a cackle. “Lord Almighty, I can see the wheels in your head turning.” In a more serious tone, she said, “Darlin’, you two are friends. If it becomes more, then no one on this earth is in any position to judge you. Only God has the right. And in case you’re wonderin’, I don’t gossip.” Her eyes crinkled in a mischievous smile, and she flicked her wrist. “Go on and get to know one another while I show you how real good ole’ West Virginian cookin’ is done. Besides, child, your family’s from the south valley. We do it a little different here in the western part of Sideling Hill. You ain’t tasted cookin’ until you’ve tasted my people’s cookin’!”
Did Betty Jean just give me her blessing to date Emmy? Stunned and relieved, she breathed deeply and hustled into the living room.
Emmy motioned for Jordan to sit next to her. “Sorry, I’m not very handy in the kitchen. I hope it’s not a prerequisite to us dating.”
“So I hear. Are you using me for my culinary skills?”
“Yep. Let me show you some of Betty Jean’s scrapbooks.”
Everyone knew Betty Jean was a major contributor to a recently published book on county history, and Jordan could see why. Every entry was meticulously labeled with beautiful calligraphy, relevant data, and stories about the people in the photos.
“Despite Betty Jean’s tough country girl reputation, she’s a deep-down softie with a wicked sense of humor.”
To illustrate her point, Emmy yelled out to Betty Jean, “Still alive in there?”
“Yes, child. You’ve got to hold your horses.”
“Well, how long? We’re about ready to starve to death in here.”
“Settle down. Besides, cookin’ good ole’ possum takes time!”
Jordan sat horrified. “She is kidding, isn’t she? I know some people do eat possum around here, but please tell me she’s not serious. I’m adventurous, but I’m no Andrew Zimmern.”
“Yes, she’s joking.” Emmy could barely speak from the laughter bubbling out of her.
They went back to their conversation and soon lost track of time. Jordan honestly couldn’t remember when she had been so relaxed.
Betty Jean hollered, “Come and get it!”
After the meal, Jordan raved. “That was delicious. You’re hired if I open up another restaurant specializing in local cuisine.”
Betty Jean waved a hand. “Thanks, dear. A dash of love is what makes the dish.” Her rosy cheeks gave away her modesty. “Oops. Forgot the moonshine. It’s in the basement cellar. Be right back.”
Jordan’s eyes widened. “She’s joking again, right?”
Emmy took a sip of water and shrugged.
“Here we go. Caramel apple flavored to go with the dessert. Why the look? Don’t fret. It’s legal, top grade with a smooth kick.”
Although they sipped slowly, Betty Jean poured a couple more shots. They finally had to insist no more.
“Oh my, look at the time. I should get my weary bones to bed soon,�
�� Betty Jean said.
“We’ll clean up, Auntie.”
“All righty. Jordan, it was a pleasure to have your company. Please stay as long as you like. Good night girls.”
After washing dishes, Emmy and Jordan continued their discussion in the living room. Between bouts of laughter, Jordan relished the occasions when Emmy would touch her forearm or knee to make a point. She enjoyed taking in every little facial expression from the curve of Emmy’s smile to the scrunching of her nose. It wasn’t long before the antique grandfather clock chimed eleven.
“Damn,” Jordan said. “I can’t believe what time it is. I need to get going.”
Emmy slowly reached out and delicately traced the outline of her jaw. The touch and the look of desire made Jordan tremble inside. For the next few minutes, they gently explored exposed skin with their mouths and hands, teasing but not yet going into forbidden territory. Jordan felt the loss of warmth when their lips parted and Emmy stood.
“Let’s get you on your way before I do something in this living room I shouldn’t.”
She lightly kissed Emmy’s forehead. “See you soon.”
The answer was a dazzling smile that spread across Emmy’s face lighting up her hazel eyes.
Yes, Emmy was worth the risk. Jordan walked to her SUV unable to wipe away her grin. Never before had she fallen so hard and fast. Emmy’s impending job in DC briefly popped into her thoughts. A long-distance relationship built on weekend visits would not be easy, but Jordan felt so alive. She also thought of her family. Dating Emmy meant others would soon figure it out and she would rather be the one to do the telling. She kept visualizing Betty Jean saying, “It’s time to put on your big girl pants and get the job done.”
Chapter Eight
Jordan took a deep breath. She should be exhausted. Filling in for her employees to give them time off with their families was one reason. Another was Emmy. They’d had dinner out of town the night after Christmas. Unfortunately, they didn’t end the evening in one another’s arms and instead had to rush home. Betty Jean had taken a spill and called in a panic. Although it turned out to be only a sprain and bruising, it was anyone’s guess when Jordan would see Emmy again.
Falling for Love: A Winter Romance Page 5
