Irish Dreams

by Toni Kelly

  He bent, lifted her chin and placed his mouth on hers. Teasing lashes shaded her eyes, her mouth lingered open. “I’ve a mind to show you exactly what I mean. But unless you plan on spending the day sopping wet, we best head back. At least the cottage is dry.”

  A rumble of thunder rolled through the atmosphere. She cleared her throat. “The sky grew dark quickly. The sun peeked through clouds mere moments ago.”

  “Aye, good old Ireland.” Turning Jack, he squeezed the gelding into a canter and reached down to pat his flank. “Don’t worry though. Jack here doesn’t scare easily.”

  Near the cottage, Bryan and Elsie came into view. Elsie sat on Misty Eyes while Bryan stood on the ground beside them.

  “Something’s wrong,” Maggie said.

  She was right. The couple shared grave stares, and faced them as they came closer. He swung his leg back, slid off Jack, lifted Maggie down and after placing her on the ground, met Bryan walking toward them. “Something happen?” Ethan asked.

  Bryan nodded in the cottage’s direction. “You’ve a visitor.”

  “Hello, Ethan,” Miriam said as she exited his cottage.

  The muscles in Ethan’s back bunched. No. She couldn’t be on this side of the ocean. She never put in much effort unless she wanted something, and traveling several thousand miles was definitely effort. “Miriam. I see I should have changed the locks.”

  Chapter 7

  Miriam. Ethan’s ex-wife. Maggie’s chest squeezed as the other woman approached, her steps graceful like those of a ballet dancer. She was beautiful in the classic sense–sort of an ebony-haired Veronica Lake. Her long black hair waved past her shoulders, and she arched one dark brow questioningly. “Ethan, your manners? I hadn’t intended to reach you at an inconvenient time.” Her lips curved up at one side, a smirk belying her words.

  “What do you want?” Ethan’s tone grew icy.

  “Aww, someone’s a bit grumpy.” Miriam stopped in front of Ethan, and Maggie tensed. He’d been charming since she’d met him but the stiffness in his stance worried her.

  “Perhaps we should be going.” Maggie looked at Elsie for confirmation.

  “No,” Ethan said. “What do you want, Miriam?”

  “To talk, why else?”

  “You have a phone.”

  “It’s important.” She pouted. “Besides, you hardly answer my calls.”

  “Whatever you must tell me you can say in front of my friends.”

  “Friends?” Miriam’s dark gaze moved over Elsie, Bryan, then landed on her. “Is that what you call them?”

  “Go on. I haven’t all day.”

  “I’ve been thinking.” Miriam ran a finger along a shoulder seam of Ethan’s shirt. “Perhaps signing the papers was a bit of a rash decision on both our parts.” She trailed an index finger down his chest. “You and I were a good thing.”

  Ethan caught her hand, pulled it away from his body. “Were is a key word here.”

  Miriam didn’t let the words deter her. “We still could be.”

  Maggie shifted in place. She didn’t feel like hearing how good they could be together. “I think it’s best if we go.”

  “No, please–”

  “Ethan.” She met his gaze, hoped the pleading in her eyes showed clearly.

  He bent his head. “Okay.”

  “Let’s go.” Elsie slid off Misty Eyes with Bryan’s help. “My parents invited us to dinner tonight. This will give us a chance for some relaxation beforehand.”

  Like a spoiled child who’d gotten her way, Miriam smiled and waved. “Enjoy your night out.”

  “Maggie, wait.” Ethan tugged her arm, which whirled her around. Before she could react, he had a hand at the base of her back, pulling her toward him. Their bodies met. His mouth was soft yet demanding over hers. After the kiss ended, he leaned his forehead against hers. He searched her gaze as he stepped away. “Aye.”

  She wasn’t sure what aye meant, but the look of shock on Miriam’s and their friends’ faces sent a tremor rushing through her. With a kiss, he’d staked his claim.

  * * * *

  Elsie followed Maggie into the guest bedroom and closed the door. “When were you going to tell me what was going on?”

  Maggie sighed, suddenly exhausted by the day’s events. “I’m not sure what’s going on.”

  “Oh, really? Looks like your lips sure knew what was going on while Ethan kissed you.”

  She shook her head. “I’m sorry. It happened incredibly fast.”

  Elsie sat on the edge of the bed. “Oh Mags, I’m not upset Ethan kissed you. I’m ecstatic. He’s a great guy. You’re my best friend. I…” She looked up, hands spread wide as she searched for the right words. “I want you to find happiness like I’ve found. I worry it may be too soon for either of you, though.”

  “You’re concerned it’ll turn into a rebound relationship.”

  “Exactly.”

  “The thought crossed my mind too. I don’t know if we can change the path we’ve started down. I feel this inexplicable draw toward him.”

  “The man is gorgeous. I think any woman would find it hard not to feel some sort of draw to him.”

  “No. It’s more. Rick is very good-looking too. Still, nothing happened this fast. Maybe we just have great chemistry.”

  “Have you slept with him?”

  Maggie’s skin tingled, and she rubbed her face. “No.” Not yet, anyhow. “We mainly kissed.”

  “Hmm, must be quite a kisser.”

  He most definitely kissed well. She laughed. “Don’t even go there.”

  “Only saying.” Elsie giggled.

  Fun aside, she still needed to deal with the fact his ex-wife–make that gorgeous ex-wife–was now alone with him at a secluded cottage. What if he changed his mind and wanted her back? Logically, she knew her thoughts were ridiculous. His parting kiss made his choice clear. Still, she’d been hurt enough. Could she deal with another relationship going bad? Probably not this soon, if ever again. Especially when every molecule inside screamed Ethan was different.

  “Uh oh,” Elsie said. “I know that look.”

  “What look?”

  “Your blank stare of worry. Eyes get distant. Makes you look zombie-like. What are you thinking?”

  “You don’t want to know. What is it with exes anyway? First Rick. Now Miriam. If only people would realize what they’d had when they had it.”

  “Yeah, that would be easier.” Elsie pushed herself off the bed and stood. “Sometimes fate has a way of deciding if it’s not meant to be. You could have made a grave mistake in staying with Rick.”

  “You’re right, I know.” She bit her bottom lip. “I can’t help wondering what fate has in store this time around.”

  * * * *

  As Ethan neared the Kelley mansion, a small cloud of smoke floated above the terrace. The rich, chocolaty scent of cigars rode along the soft breeze. “Eat more than your fill tonight?”

  Bryan jumped up and walked along the railing. “Good God, Ethan. Are you out there?”

  “Who else?” He climbed the stairs to the terrace.

  “Why would you be trudging through wet grass at this time of night?”

  Because he was a sopping idiot who’d somehow made a mess of his life in a matter of days. “I needed air. Thought you’d be out enjoying a smoke.”

  “I’m predictable, huh?” Bryan asked, resting his cigar on the rim of a stone ashtray.

  “No. I chanced it, figuring your future in-laws are in town. Since you all ate out, I knew Mrs. Rogers would make sure you ate well.” Ethan grinned. “You always smoke after a big meal.”

  “I am predictable. I won’t deny that woman is surely trying to fatten me up for some feast. Want a cigar?”

  “No, thank you.”

  Bryan picked up his and took several puffs. “Are you here for Maggie?”

  After Miriam showing up, Ethan would be shocked if Maggie wanted to see him. “No. I’ve got to leave town for a day or two. Must go
see a property. An investment opportunity has come up.”

  “What about Miriam? What did she want?”

  “What else? Money. I said no, therefore she’s gone, for now. Hopefully, for good.”

  “Doubt it. She’s like the plague.” Bryan released a puff of smoke, remaining quiet. As usual, he respected Ethan’s privacy. This time Ethan wanted him pushing for answers.

  Taking a seat next to a wrought iron table, Ethan shoved a hand through his unruly hair. “What am I getting myself into?”

  “Do you love her?”

  “Who?”

  Bryan tilted his head, brows knitting together. “You know who I mean.”

  Love? He’d only known Maggie a week. “Do you hear what you’re asking me?”

  “I know I haven’t heard an answer yet.”

  “’Cause I can’t give you an answer. How am I supposed to know what I feel? I only met her days ago. I’ll admit she’s on my mind.” All the time. He glanced up. A curtain fluttered beyond a window. Strange, that it was open, considering the night’s chill.

  “How’d you feel with Miriam after you two got married?” Bryan asked.

  “Different.” He met his friend’s gaze. “It wasn’t like this, that I can tell you.”

  Bryan sat beside him and leaned forward on his knees. “Look, I mostly stay out of your business for that reason–it’s your business. I also feel this whole thing with Miriam is partly my fault. I knew she was wrong from the beginning. Didn’t have it in me to tell you. Was a bit of a tool, sorry.”

  Ethan shrugged. “I’m not sure I would have listened.”

  “Maggie isn’t Miriam.”

  “I’ve gathered that.”

  “Still,” Bryan continued, “I’m not sure she’s ready.”

  “I’m not sure I’m ready.”

  “Perhaps this trip comes right on time. Will you be at our rehearsal dinner on Thursday night?”

  “Aye, I should be. May be a bit late.” He stood. “I should go. I leave at dawn tomorrow.”

  Bryan pushed himself upright and stood. “Have a safe trip. Good luck.”

  Ethan stepped off the terrace. “Thanks, I believe I’ll need it.”

  * * * *

  Maggie neared the window as Ethan’s form disappeared into the night. What had he discussed with Bryan? He’d come back, but not for her. Maybe because they’d discussed Miriam. Or maybe he was too afraid to speak with her. Backing away, she let the drape fall closed. She was no better. He’d looked up once and she’d hid, like a coward.

  With one hand, she rubbed the center of her chest, and with the other, folded down the comforter. Then she slipped between the cool sheets, reached over and turned out the light. Despite doubts she ever would, she slept.

  Chapter 8

  Maggie sat in the sitting room portion of Elsie’s bedroom and adjusted the top of her dress. The night of the rehearsal dinner had come quickly. More than she would have thought possible, as Ethan had clouded her mind during every waking moment. Fortunately, Elsie had made sure those moments were few.

  “I told you straight hair was a great idea.” Elsie fiddled with the halter straps of her cornflower blue dress as she stood in front of her vanity’s mirror. The dress’s pale color matched her eyes, and when she turned to face Maggie, her smile dazzled. “You look gorgeous. The copper wrap dress makes your waist look tiny.”

  “All right missy.” Poor Elsie did her darnedest to keep her upbeat. “Thank you for the compliments” Maggie bit her bottom lip and walked across the room. “Here, let me fix those.” She tightened the neck straps on Elsie’s dress and stepped back. “Beautiful. Bryan won’t be able to resist you.”

  “I want you happy.”

  Maggie cradled Elsie’s face between her hands. “I am happy. I can’t believe the day you’re getting married is almost here. It happened within the blink of an eye.”

  “I know.” Elsie placed one hand over Maggie’s. “Sometimes I still feel like a five year old chasing you through my bedroom. Do you remember? You’d never let me marry Ken.”

  She laughed. “Figures, my childhood commitment issues would come back to haunt me.”

  “Maggie.” Elsie arched one perfectly defined brow.

  “I know.” She turned Elsie, giving her a shove toward the door. “I’m just joking. Let’s go downstairs before your guests end up leaving.”

  An hour-and-a-half later, the party was in full swing in Rose Hill House’s most decadent ballroom. The crystals in the enormous chandeliers gleamed like stars from the ceiling of the rectangular room. Silk curtains swept across the tall windows which stretched the length of the walls. If anything, the guests appeared to have tripled. From a side entryway, Bryan’s staff rolled out buffet tables laden with beef, lamb, pureed potatoes, an array of sweet breads, steamed mussels and stewed vegetables. Several waiters followed, carrying bottles of red and white wines.

  “Wow,” Maggie said.

  “I know, looks scrumptious, doesn’t it?” Elsie beamed. “Just wait until you see the desserts.”

  Considering Elsie’s sweet tooth, she could only imagine. Behind them stood a dozen round tables dressed in linen cloths, crystal and polished silver. Rose-shaped butter filled petite porcelain bowls around floral centerpieces.

  “Everything looks amazing, yet despite the hors d’oeuvres, your guests are beginning to resemble vultures as they near that buffet. I’m almost glad we’re across the room, as we won’t get run over as they make a dash for it,” said Maggie. “It appears a bunch of them must have done without food this entire week in preparation for this event.”

  Elsie glanced around her and rubbed her stomach. “To be honest, I just may join them if my fiance doesn’t show up. I haven’t the slightest idea where he disappeared to and I unfortunately did not get any of our hors d’oeuvres.”

  Maggie hadn’t see Ethan yet either. “Perhaps he and Ethan escaped outside somewhere.” Not unusual, since Bryan enjoyed the occasional cigar.

  “Nope. Ethan had a business trip to go on a couple days ago. If he makes this dinner at all, it will be much later.”

  “Oh.” Why had he not told her?

  Elsie faced her and blinked. “Oh Maggie, I’m so callous sometimes.” She grabbed her hands. “The trip came up last minute. Ethan is not the type to kiss you like he did the other day and have it mean nothing. He does care for you.”

  She shrugged. “Of course. Please don’t concern yourself about me.” There was no way she was going to let herself mope over another man. She flashed a smile. “If anything, I think we should do something about you and your hungry guests. We can’t have a fainting bride.”

  “Pardon me for the delay,” Bryan said as he came up behind them, put an arm around Elsie’s shoulders and kissed her cheek. “We had a parking situation to clear up.” He nodded at a couple of his wait staff to begin serving the guests. “We should probably say a few words and grab a seat ourselves.”

  Elsie pouted. “I couldn’t agree more. My stomach is about to eat itself.”

  As Bryan and Elsie thanked their guests for coming and said a blessing over the meal, Maggie wandered over to one of the vacant tables at the corner of the dance floor. She was in no rush to eat and the buffet line would be fairly busy for a while anyway. She didn’t want to admit being disappointed over Ethan’s absence but she was. How could he kiss her with so much passion and then leave town without telling her? Well, perhaps he wasn’t planning on leaving town for long, but still.

  She adjusted her chair to watch the dance floor. The night was unusually warm for fall, and several dancing couples spilled out through the open doors onto a large terrace. Ethan was missing his best friend’s engagement party. And she was wasting time pining over him.

  “May I have this dance?” A tall blond smiled as he held out a hand.

  “I’d love to dance.” Or at least get her mind off a certain someone. Maggie slipped her hand in his and let him sweep her onto the dance floor. His eyes shone light aqua,
like the Mediterranean and lips were full and nicely curved. Yet as he placed his hand on her back, there was no flutter in her stomach, no ripple of electricity up her spine. She hated that she compared him to Ethan. The man seemed perfectly nice and was a wonderful dancer.

  “Have you lost someone?” he asked.

  “Pardon me?” She met his clear, knowing gaze.

  “You seem distracted, as if you are searching for someone. Did you lose them?”

  She wasn’t sure she’d ever had him. “No. This party is so lovely. I guess I was a bit distracted.”

  “You’re Elsie’s friend from the States, aren’t you?”

  She nodded. “I’m Maggie. And you? How do you know Elsie and Bryan?”

  “I went to school with Bryan and we kept in touch. Name’s William, but you can call me Will. How do you like Ireland?”

  “Oh, I love it. Very…magical.” Magical? He probably thought her an idiot. “Well, I mean with the big trees and the rolling hills. Phoenix is nothing like this.”

  “You about had it right. Ireland is magical for sure. Truth be told, there aren’t many places like it.”

  His words thrummed through her, resonating with all she’d felt over the past few days. The thought of leaving such a beautiful place made her anxious.

  “So does this person know you’re waiting for them?”

  She opened her mouth. Nothing came out. How did they end up changing the subject? Was she truly waiting for Ethan? Of course she was, but that didn’t mean she needed to admit it.

  The blond smiled as the song ended and he spun her to a stop. “Because, if I knew you waited for me, I’d be there.”

  The truth in his words grated on her. “I’m not wa–”

  “He’ll be here.” He lifted her hand and brushed a gentle kiss across her skin. “If not, he’s a fool. Enjoy your time in Ireland, Maggie.” With a bow, he turned on his heel and disappeared through the crowd.

  Heat flushed Maggie’s cheeks. Was she so obvious? She scanned the ballroom. People laughed, danced, drank and ate. Suddenly feeling as if the walls closed in, she fled toward fresh air on the terrace.

  “Leaving already?” a man said in a familiar voice behind her.