No Direction Home (Sweet Home Colorado)

by Jude Willhoff

  “Lady, you still got it. I can see it in your eyes. You may be down, but you’re not out. Come on, Jenna, let’s toast Grace.”

  They raised their glasses. “To Grace, may you have a wonderful writing career?” Their glasses clinked in unison. “I know you can do it.” Cindy grinned at her with kindness in her eyes.

  Grace’s hands twisted together around the stem of her wine glass. “Thanks, ladies. It gives me something to think about.” And she was really considering it. She had a feeling this was right...she should be writing. It would be productive and rewarding and it was something she could do at home.

  Another cowboy came up and whisked Cindy away. She was the life of the party, but Grace didn't mind. It was great just sitting at the cozy table with friends, an old friend who cared and thought about her and a new friend to get to know. She had forgotten what it was like to have real friends. Jenna excused herself when a man came up and escorted her to the dance floor. Grace didn’t mind sitting alone. In LA she had many acquaintances, but no real friends. And looking back she realized that most of them were after something. It was the LA lifestyle, a dog eat dog world and everybody searching for a bone.

  She enjoyed watching Cindy and Jenna dancing with a couple of cute guys she had seen around the ranch. All the activity on the dance floor made her back ache, but she was having a good time listening to the music.

  The band started playing a slow song. “Angel,” by Sarah McLachlan—Grace’s favorite. She closed her eyes and hummed along, wishing she had someone to care about her.

  “May I have this dance?” Her heart sang with delight. She hadn’t seen Seth come into the bar, but she recognized his sensual voice and opened her eyes to see him holding out his hand. Throwing caution to the wind, she placed her hand in his, causing her heart to beat faster. When she glided into his arms, her problems seemed to melt away. He tightened his arm around her waist and squeezed affectionately causing a tingling sensation to grow in the pit of her stomach.

  “You look lovely tonight.” His voice was soft, almost a murmur, whispering into her ear. He pulled her to his chest in a possessive gesture.

  A part of her reveled in his open admiration but she knew he was just being nice to his boss’s granddaughter. “Thank you.” A warm glow flowed through her while he gently moved her around the dance floor. For a moment, his touch was a balm to ease her troubled mind. But part of her problem was the man. She didn't know what he had done in the past...and his touch made her feel things she thought were long dormant. She had to conquer her involuntary reactions to that gentle loving look of his or she would be lost.

  The song ended and Cindy walked up to them. “Hey, Seth, you guys looked good out there. Care to join us?”

  Grace’s heart slammed into her chest. Was this the man Cindy cared for? Remembering Cindy saying she’d take Seth in a New York minute, she bet a lot of women in Cedar Falls felt the same way. After all, he was handsome, affectionate and most important...available. She pushed the thought that he was also an ex-con to the back of her mind, wanting to enjoy the moment.

  “Maybe later, I have to talk to some of the boys first.” He held Grace’s hand when he led her back to the table. “Save another dance for me.” He studied her thoughtfully with an invitation in the smoldering depth of his eyes then walked away.

  Grace swallowed the lump in her throat when she sat down. The man took her breath away. She was putty in his hands. Why, now of all times, did she have to feel this way about someone, and why him? She’d decided she couldn’t be with anyone and now she had an undeniable attraction to Seth. Life wasn’t fair.

  “It looked like you two had been dancing together for a lifetime.” Cindy grinned. “Tell me, how do you do it? Seth doesn't date anyone. Most of the single woman in town have made moves on him and he ignores them. You come home and he's drawn to you like a bee to a hive.”

  Flustered, Grace held her drink, running her finger around the rim of the glass. “Oh, he was only dancing with me because we live in the same house.” She glanced at his well-defined profile while he stood at the bar. “He's not interested in me that way.” She couldn’t help but notice his nice buns. What was happening to her? She hadn’t been physically attracted to anyone in ages.

  “Yeah, right, tell me another one.” She laughed. “Wake up old friend of mine. I know these things. The man is attracted to you.” She seemed to enjoy Grace’s struggle to capture her composure.

  “He was only being nice. Besides, you’re the one who’s attracted to him.” She leaned back in her chair and smiled, showing Cindy it didn’t bother her.

  “What? I don’t think so.” Cindy shook her head. “You silly goose, I’m not interested in Seth. I think he’d be great for you. He’s exactly what you need.”

  She sighed with relief—good, Cindy's not interested in Seth. But though she was glad it didn’t mean she was ready for a relationship—especially with an ex-con. “You’re way off base.” She spoke with determination. “I don’t need a man, especially not Seth. Anyway, I’m doing fine without one.” But being in his arms had made her feel alive. Must be the wine. The demon on her shoulder reminded her this was all a game. Why not have a little fun? One way or another, through Nana or her, Seth was only after the ranch.

  “Yeah, I have to admit you’re doing great, but everybody needs somebody, even if it’s just for companionship. Maybe Seth isn’t the one, but there’s someone out there for both of us. Mark my words. We just have to find them. And believe me it gets to be difficult in a small town like Cedar Falls.” Cindy sighed and gave Grace a hug.

  “Have you had too much to drink?” Grace asked. Cindy was acting tipsy, but still charming in her odd way.

  “No way, I’m just getting started. Not drinking, but having fun. I think I’ll ask Travis to dance. He’s been watching me all night, but he’s about the shyest cowpoke I’ve ever met.”

  “Which one is he?” Grace took in most of the bar in one swift glance. Cowboys dressed in their best Levis stood around the bar drinking. They all looked alike, except for Seth. There was an air of confidence about him. He leaned against the bar sipping a Coors, while talking to another cowboy. The man sent her pulse spinning. She crossed her arms and listened to Cindy.

  “He’s the cutie talking to Seth. He’s kind of short, but taller than me.”

  “Well, that wouldn’t take much, since you are such a munchkin. How tall are you now?” Grace smiled. It had been a long time since she’d been able to tease her friend.

  “I’m as tall as you, my dear, and don’t you forget it.”

  “Not so. Stand up and I’ll prove it.” They stood back to back. Cindy’s jet black lay against Grace’s blond head. Touching the top of Grace’s head with her upraised hand, she conceded. “Well, maybe you are a bit taller.”

  They sat down and Jenna came back to the table panting from the fast dance. “Those boys will wear you out if you let them.”

  “Is it always this busy?” Grace checked out the dance floor. It looked like the room was shrinking with the couples swaying to the music. The place was packed.

  “Yeah, since Charlie made the changes I told you about.” Jenna picked up a napkin and nervously twisted it with her fingers. “His business is growing like gangbusters.”

  Grace saw the source of Jenna’s nervous reaction. She would’ve recognized Charlie anywhere when he approached them from across the room.

  “My ears have been burning all the way from Denver. Who’s been talking about me?” The tall, blond man towered over the table. When Charlie’s gaze fell upon Grace, his eyes widened in surprise. “Grace Sanders, as I live and breathe, how are you? I can’t believe you’re here.” He raised his eyebrows at the girls. “Cindy Lou, why didn’t you tell me?”

  “Don’t call me that. I wanted to surprise you and I think I succeeded.” She laughed. “You should see your face. Wish I had a camera.”

  Charlie glanced at Grace. “It’s good to see you. Are you in town long?”r />
  “I’m back to stay. I’m out at the ranch with Nana.” It was nice seeing Charlie. After he figured out she wasn't interested in being his girlfriend in high school, he had been like the big brother she never had growing up. He had taught her how to put worms on a fishing hook.

  “Wonderful.” He pulled out a chair and sat between Grace and Jenna, spotting Grace’s empty glass. “Would you like something else to drink?”

  “Sure, I’ll have one more.” She wasn’t used to the altitude yet and the wine was beginning to affect her. She’d had a couple of drinks and this would be her last one.

  He signaled for the cocktail waitress. “We’ll have another round at this table. Put it on my tab.”

  “Thanks. I really like what you’ve done with the place.” She smiled at Charlie, amazed at how good he looked sitting next to Jenna. With her fiery bright hair coloring and his sandy blond good looks they made a striking couple.

  “It pays the bills and I’m enjoying it." He smiled. "So you finally gave up LA for our Colorado backcountry. It’s a blessing to have you back.”

  “I’m glad to be back. You know when you’re young, all you can think about is getting away, then when you get older and things go wrong, all you can think about is missing home.” She sighed. “It’s a crazy old world we live in.”

  “Welcome home, Grace.” He leaned over and gave her a hug. “It’s LA’s loss and our gain.”

  ***

  From across the room, Seth tensed when Charlie put his arms around Grace. Was Charlie coming on to her or were they just friends? Hell, why should it bother him? He scowled at what was happening at their table. He had no business feeling jealous about this woman. Come on man, keep it together. How long had it been? Seth thought to himself. He knew the answer well enough. It had been over seven years since his last serious relationship. Up until Grace’s arrival in Cedar Falls, he would have said that was not nearly long enough.

  Nana had told him she’d watch Jamie, he should take the night off and go into town with the boys. She hadn’t told him Grace would be looking so delectable.

  When he’d tucked Jamie in earlier, she’d asked him to find Grace and dance with her. Well, he had done it for his daughter. Who was he kidding? He had danced with her for himself. She had looked like an angel sitting there in the crowded room watching her friends.

  From what Nana had said, he knew Grace was still coming to terms with what she could and couldn’t do with her life. It would take time for her to realize she was a woman with needs. But when she did, it would be a lucky day for the guy who got to help her satisfy those needs. Business, Seth told himself. This relationship must remain strictly business.

  He glanced away and started peeling the label off his beer bottle. “Hey, Travis, Cindy, the cute little dark haired hairdresser who’s sweet on you is giving you the eye. You’d better put on your dancing shoes.”

  “Do you think she knows I’m alive? I’ve wanted to ask her out for a while now." He sighed. “What would she want with a cowpoke like me? She owns her own business and everything.”

  “You might be surprised, but she knows you’re breathing and she’s planning on doing something about it. Here she comes.” Seth nodded at Cindy when she walked up to the bar.

  “How are you boys doing tonight? Around here a girl could get parched waiting on a fellow to buy her a drink.” She stared at Travis.

  “Ma’am, sit right down here and Travis will take care of it.” Seth moved off the bar stool and turned it over to Cindy. He’d go over and see how Grace was holding up with all the attention. Cowboys were coming out of the woodwork asking her to dance. She politely turned them down while she talked with Charlie. Seth let out a long, audible sigh while he leaned against the bar and watched the room. The woman had managed to crawl under his skin.

  No wonder—she sure stood out in a crowd. She was wearing an innocent-looking, long burgundy dress with a low neckline. Discreet, but attractive. The long blond hair and her pretty brown eyes told the story—class all the way. He always had a thing for blondes...and those eyes. A man could get lost in those big brown eyes.

  He’d watch her to make sure none of the lonely cowboys were out of line. Some of the boys were looking for a good time. Not knowing who Grace was, some might try something with her. He’d take care of them if anyone got fresh with her.

  She was Nana’s pride and joy. The least he could do was look out for the lady, for her grandmother. No skin off his nose. Yeah, he’d watch her for Nana.

  He smiled and shook his head. Yeah, right...who was he kidding? Old fool that he was...he’d watch her for himself.

  Chapter Seven

  Seth leaned against the bar, sipping his beer and studied Grace. It was obvious to anyone who knew about her condition that she was feeling some pain. He caught her pushing her fist into the small of her back when she thought no one was looking. Since Jenna and Cindy were dancing, and Charlie was checking out something behind the bar, she was alone. Maybe she needed someone to talk to. He shook his head regretfully. He’d made a vow to keep his distance but that wasn’t happening. He worked his way over to the table.

  “Are you having a good time?” Caught off guard, her big brown eyes were full of life, pain and unquenchable warmth as she glanced at him. Half in anticipation, half in dread, he pulled out a chair and wedged himself in next to her.

  “Yes.” The tenderness in her expression surprised him. “It’s great seeing friends.” She managed a tentative smile. “How about you? Are you enjoying yourself?”

  He laughed. "All in all, they’re a good lot, but there are more enjoyable things to do than hang out in an overcrowded bar with the boys from the bunkhouse.” He’d much rather be out on a date with her.

  The gleam in her eyes spoke volumes. “Like what?” she asked slowly with a lazily seductive look.

  This was more like it. The energy bouncing between them was almost tangible and she was feeling it, too. “Well.” He moved in closer to her. “Do you like to look at the stars?”

  “Sure, doesn’t everybody?” She stared down into her wine glass, avoiding his direct gaze, seeming to be a bit shy. “Actually, I can’t remember the last time I noticed the stars.”

  “Hmmm...we’ll have to remedy that. There’s nothing quite like seeing the stars on a clear, crisp night from the high mountains of Colorado.” He grinned at her, daring her to object.

  “Yes, I remember. They're beautiful.” Her eyes became gentle and contemplative under his scrutiny and she smiled wistfully. “When we were kids, Cindy and I used to camp out in Nana’s back yard and watch the stars, pretending we were space travelers.”

  He thought she seemed more like the star watching type than the star traveling type. “Did you know there’s supposed to be a meteor shower tonight?” He sipped his beer and set the bottle on the table, realizing how much he wanted to be alone with the woman—to hold her in his arms—to take away some of her pain. A sobering thought, he couldn’t let anything happen between them, but maybe they could be friends, if nothing else.

  “No, I guess I didn't hear about it.” Nervously, she bit her lip, watching Cindy snuggle closer while she danced a slow dance with Travis.

  “I’m getting ready to head back to the ranch. It looks like your friends are going to be here for some time." He took a deep breath and glanced at the girls dancing with their fellas. “Would you like a ride?" If she said yes, it would be okay. He was sure of himself and his rightful place in the scheme of things. He’d just give her a ride home—that’s all.

  “Yes, thanks, if it isn’t any trouble. I’m getting tired and the girls are having fun.” The beginning of a smile tipped the corner of her mouth. “Nana dropped me off and I didn’t want to spoil their good time by asking Cindy to take me home.”

  “I’d like to show you the best place for star gazing.” He lowered his voice, being purposefully mysterious. “You can see for miles across the sky.” The more he talked, the more excited he became. She was go
ing to ride home with him. In another lifetime maybe it would’ve meant more than just a ride home.

  Her luminous eyes widened in surprise. “Okay, but I warn you. I am tired. I don’t want to stay out too late.”

  “Not a problem. It’s on the way home.” Had he lost his mind? Sure, he was sick and tired of watching the other guys flock around her, but should he risk being alone with her? Could he trust himself?

  “I have to say good night to Jenna and Cindy before we leave.” She glanced around looking for Cindy.

  “Fine. I’m in no hurry.” His eyes raked boldly over her when the dance ended and the others came back to the table. He couldn’t help it; a definite lurch of excitement hit him at the prospect of taking her home.

  “Hey, Seth, it’s about time you came over to join us,” Cindy murmured, half laughing.

  “We’ll do it another night, right now I have to head out of here.” He had better things to do than hang out in the bar. He was going to be alone with Grace. “I have a big day tomorrow stringing fence and I need to get an early start.” He stood and pushed the chair back from the table, pulling on his sheepskin coat, glancing at Grace. “Are you ready?”

  “Sure, that'll save Cindy the trip.” She started to pull on her jacket. Seth moved closer, holding the coat as she put her arms through the sleeves. A familiar shiver of awareness passed through him when his hand brushed the hair from her neck. The softness of her skin amazed him. She was all woman from head to toe. He had been alone too long. He was powerless to resist her charms.

  “Oh, it’s still early,” Cindy exclaimed. “I don’t mind taking you home. Please stay.”

  “I’m still playing catch-up with my rest from driving from California. I’m tired.” Grace smiled. “You and Jenna stay. Have a good time. I’ll call you tomorrow.”

  Seth put his hand on Grace’s shoulder in a protective gesture. He knew Cindy hadn't missed the significance of the look that passed between him and Grace when he helped her into her coat, but he didn’t care.