by Sable Hunter
“Don’t wait too long to make your move, Ben,” Sam advised him. “You’re far too picky to let a woman who catches your eye get away.”
He’d told Denise he was picky, but he hadn’t really been serious. Was he picky? Benjen considered his brother’s counsel. He just wanted to share more with a woman than mere attraction. As he made his way across the yard, Benjen watched his footfalls across the grass, his mind elsewhere. He kept seeing Apple’s smile, how she cared for the small animals with such care and tenderness. “Pity she just wants to be your friend, Blackhawk.” Instead of dissuading him, the prospect exhilarated Benjen. “Miss Apple is in for a surprise visit.” For the first time in a helluva long time, a woman intrigued him – and as far as he was concerned, friendship would just be the beginning.
* * *
Apple loved her job, but she lived for the weekend. As much as she valued her days off, they certainly couldn’t be classified as leisure time. She used Saturdays and Sundays to do DIY projects on her old house. Painting. Refinishing cabinets. Tearing out carpet and scraping hardwood floors. There were things she couldn’t do herself, of course, but she did what she could with a happy heart, making headway slowly but steadily. The energy she expended on the tasks was therapeutic. Today, however, she intended to spend making her unexpected houseguest feel comfortable.
“Why don’t you come out and get to know me a little better?” Apple held out her hand, willing the big dog to trust her. “If you’ll ease just a little closer, I’ll give you some petting.”
The cautious German Shepherd wasn’t taking any chances. So far, she’d kept her distance, only coming out of her hiding place when Apple tugged her out by the leash she still wore.
“You don’t know what you’re missing. I have two acres of meadowland ready for you to romp over. There’s rabbits and squirrels for you to chase and flowers for you to smell.”
Pushing aside the notes she’d been making, Apple turned in her chair to look the dog in the face. “What expressive brown eyes you have. You’re pretty, girl.”
A whine of despair was the only reply she received.
Knock! Knock!
Woof! Growl.
The sudden noise and the dog’s instant reaction caused Apple to jump. Who could that be? She didn’t often receive visitors. The last person who stopped by tried to convert her to Mormonism.
Going to the window, she peeped out onto the porch. “Oh, my goodness.” Her breath hitched in her throat when she saw Benjen Blackhawk. For a second or two, she observed him without his knowledge. A truly pleasurable experience. During the last four days, she’d done her best not to fantasize about him. So far, she’d been unsuccessful. The man was pure eye candy.
Knock!
“Apple, it’s Benjen.”
Taking a deep breath, she moved the few feet from the window to open the door. “Well, hello. What a surprise.”
“Is it? I’m not sure why it would be – us being friends and all.”
A soft laugh rose unbidden to her lips. “Right.” She stood back to let him in as the dog gave a hesitant bark of greeting.
“Thanks.” Benjen was aware of the animal’s response and he intended to acknowledge it in full measure. At this moment, however, his focus was firmly affixed on the woman before him. She was adorable. Her amazing hair was in a loose bun on top of her head, her eyes were bright, and her face was free of any makeup. Apple looked sweet and fresh as a daisy.
“Please come in and take a seat.” She pulled out a dining table chair for him. “Can I get you a cup of coffee?” Her heart was beating a mile a minute. Apple couldn’t imagine why he’d chosen to visit her.
“Yea, that would be great. Thanks.” As he waited to be served, he let himself take in his surroundings. The old structure was narrow, but long – and in need of a multitude of work. “These homes have always fascinated me. You know why they call them shot-gun houses, don’t you?”
“Because the rooms are arranged one behind the other?”
“Close.” Benjen grinned. “The term ‘shotgun’ refers to the idea that if all the doors are open, you could fire a shotgun blast into the house from the front door and the bullet would fly right out the back.”
“Wow, that’s interesting and I hope I don’t ever have the theory tested.” While she occupied herself brewing a pot, she asked the question bearing heavy on her mind, “What can I do for you today?”
“Well…”
He gave her a big smile and that’s when she noticed he was still holding one hand behind his back.
“I brought these.”
Apple’s mouth dropped open when she realized he held a small bouquet of roses. A thrill raced through her. How long had it been since a man gave her flowers? Uh…never. Her eyes fell on his broad, strong hand holding the delicate pink flowers. “Oh, my.” She felt her face flame. “I’m sorry. You shouldn’t have…”
He pulled the floral offering back out of her reach. “Oh, don’t worry, I didn’t. These aren’t for you.”
Apple was dumbfounded. “They’re not?”
“No.” He shook his head solemnly, hoping his outrageous plan worked. “These are for…that girl.” Benjen nodded toward the dog as he placed the roses in her hand. “Do you think you could put these in water for her?”
“Uh. Okay.” Apple pressed her lips together, trying not to laugh. This guy was something else. “I’m sure she loves them.”
Rising to his feet, he knelt near the Shepherd, holding out his hand tentatively. Even as he made an overture to the wary animal, he was fully cognizant of Apple’s movements around the room as she located a glass and filled it with water. Once or twice, their gazes collided, Benjen couldn’t tell if she was happy to see him or not.
“Aren’t you afraid Hope will be jealous of you paying attention to another dog?” she asked as she poured their coffee and placed cream and sugar within his reach.
“Hmmm, maybe. Sometimes jealousy is a good thing though.” He smiled as he was able to touch the leery animal on the nose.
“Oh, really?” Unfortunately, that hasn’t been Apple’s experience.
“Sometimes a little bit of jealousy will make a dog…or a person, realize what it is they really want, what’s important to them.”
“I see.” She didn’t, but there was no use arguing about it. What concerned her most was what Benjen Blackhawk might be up to. “Hey, she’s coming to you!” In wonder, she watched the dog move a few inches closer. She couldn’t really blame the canine, Apple would love to be near him herself.
“What can I say?” He glanced over his shoulder at Apple. “I’m irresistible.”
His smile showed off two intriguing dimples.
“Oh, yea?” He might be right, but she wasn’t about to stroke his ego. “Dang,” she whispered, an image of her stroking another part of his body burned itself into her brain. “Stop it.”
“Stop what?” He stood to his feet, gazing at her with curiosity.
“Uh…so, what are you doing here, really?” Even though she knew what a terrible idea it would be to get involved with this man, part of her wanted it more than she wanted her next breath.
Benjen moved to the dining table to reclaim his seat and lift the steaming mug of black coffee to his lips. He was buying time, trying to maneuver his way into this lady’s life. “I’ve been thinking about the dog.”
“Obviously.” Apple touched the vase of roses almost reverently. “You have a very tender heart, don’t you?” She could recognize the trait they had in common. “You keep imagining what could possibly have been done to this dog to make her so afraid and distrusting.” She glanced over at the Shepherd and marveled how it’s hopeful eyes followed Benjen Blackhawk’s every move.
“Yea, I suppose I do have a tender heart.” Benjen absentmindedly ran his hand over a piece of note paper lying on the table. “I’ve always been like this. I think I inherited it from my mother. She was always taking in strays and raising kittens on a bottle.”
“I haven’t been able to examine her closely, but from running my hands over her neck and back, I can’t find any obvious injuries.” She sat on her hands in the chair next to him. This was so magnetic and compelling, she found herself fighting to keep from touching him
“Maybe the abuse she suffered was more emotional than physical.” Benjen studied Apple’s face. “Dogs can be very sensitive to people’s moods and their tones. Sometimes words hurt as bad as a blow.”
Apple could certainly vouch for that truth. “You might be right.” She lowered her voice and made it silky soft. “I’ll try crooning to her, whispering sweet nothings in her ear.”
Benjen felt his whole body react to her voice. “I’m sure you’ll have her eating out of your hand before you know it. How are the little pups doing?”
“Great. Dr. Cleveland moved them to her house. Her daughter got one look at them and fell in love. She’ll probably be giving one to each of her friends.”
“That’s great.” He cleared his throat, trying to gather his courage to work up to the real reason for his visit. As he weighed his next words, he noticed the papers beneath his hand. “What’s this, Ms. Cates?”
“Oh, those doodles? That’s just me daydreaming. Someday, I’d like to open a no-kill animal shelter.” She shrugged and gave him a shy smile. “I’ve been able to help several animals, finding them homes. If I had a facility like this, I could do more good.”
Benjen nodded toward the Shepherd. “Do you intend to rehome our girl here?” He didn’t know why the answer was so important to him – but it was.
“No, I don’t think so. She’s been through enough rejection. I don’t want her to experience anymore.”
“I’m glad to hear that.” Perfect answer. “What are you going to call her?”
“I’ve been thinking about it.” Her eyes landed on the flowers he’d brought. “Do you think Rose is a good name?”
Benjen chuckled. “I think it suits her.”
“Good, Rose it shall be.”
To hide his pleasure at her answer, Benjen studied the drawings, noting the safe and comfortable facilities. “This looks like it will work well.”
“Someday, when I have some extra money.”
About that time, a peal of thunder made the house shake and a bolt of lightning striking nearby sent a flash of light lancing through the windows. The dog’s alarmed howl rent the air as sheets of rain began to pour down. “Oh, good gracious, here we go...”
Returning to comfort the dog, Benjen was confused as Apple scurried around in the kitchen, pulling pots and bowls from the cabinet. “What’s going on? Can I help?”
“I’ve got it.” She looked at him apologetically as water began leaking through the ceiling and falling into the containers she’d strategically placed around the kitchen and dining area. “This happens every time it rains.”
“Damn, baby.” He wanted to pick up the flustered woman and the shaking dog in his arms and take them home with him. “This is the pits.”
“Yea, I know.” She held her hands up and spun around. “It’s a big job and I’m going to get to it soon. I’ve been watching some YouTube videos on replacing shingles.”
Benjen wasn’t sure replacing a few shingles would solve this problem. The idea of her crawling around on the roof gave him shivers. What she needed was – him. A slow smile dawned on Benjen’s face. “How would you like to have some help?”
“What do you mean?” A glorious panic made her eyes grow wide.
“Friends help friends. Right?” He gave her a wink. “I’ve worked on our house. I know what I’m doing. Give me one day on that roof and there won’t be any more leaks.”
Oh, she was in trouble. As much as she needed his help, this wasn’t a good idea. She did everything in her power to not let it show, but Apple knew she was fragile. “I…don’t know.”
Benjen held up his hands. “Why don’t you think about it?” He knew he had one more card to play. “Maybe you’ll feel better about me after the picnic.”
“What picnic?” She couldn’t keep a tinge of excitement from her voice.
“Rose, Hope, and I,” he explained like she should already know. “I was hoping to set up a playdate for our dogs.” When he saw her stunned expression, Benjen laughed. “You can come along as a chaperone if you like.”
“You’re crazy,” she told him, feeling her heart expand in her chest like a balloon.
Benjen nodded. “My brothers have been known to share your opinion. So, what do you say? I’ll take care of everything. Hope and I will pick the two of you up tomorrow afternoon about five. How does that sound?”
Wonderful. Terrible. “I don’t think this…” She started to protest further, but he didn’t give her a chance.
“What do you say, Rose?” he asked the dog. “Would you like to go on a date with Benjen?”
Woof! Woof!
He gave her a triumphant look. “I’d say that’s a yes. Do I hear two?”
“Oh, all right.” She held up her hands in surrender. “Never let it be said I stood in the way of my dog’s social life.”
“Good. I guess I should leave while I’m ahead. Goodnight, Rose.” Benjen tipped his hat to the Shepherd who’d eased out to the very edge of the table. “And goodnight, Apple.” He gave her a big smile. “Stay dry.”
“I’ll try. Goodnight,” she muttered as she held open the door. “You don’t play fair, do you?”
He was gratified to see she looked quite pleased. “Not always,” he murmured softly, holding her gaze as he took his leave. Once she shut the door behind him, Benjen finished his thought as he made a run for his truck. “Not when I want something as much as I want you.”
* * *
“See, I told you they’d be fine.” Benjen glanced in his rearview mirror to observe the two dogs sitting on either side of the backseat.
“I’m glad.” Frankly, she’d been a bit worried. “Rose is so much bigger than Hope. I had no idea how she’d react.”
“I think this outing will be good for all of us.” He glanced up at the Texas sun still high in the western sky. “Have you ever seen The Slab?”
“No.” She soothed her palms over her skirt. “I’ve heard about it, though. I guess I shouldn’t have worn a dress.”
“I love your sundress, it will be perfect for wading.” He slowed down to turn into a grassy lane. “Sit tight. I’m going to open the gate.”
“Oh, let me do it.” She bounded from the truck. Before she shut the door, she grinned at him. “You shouldn’t have to get in and out and drive too.”
“Thanks.” His heart grew warm at her consideration. As she held the gate open wide for him to drive his truck through, he couldn’t help but admire the feminine shape of her body. She was perfect. Lush. Womanly. He’d been torturing himself, imagining what her breasts looked like. “Damn.” Benjen reached down to adjust his package in his jeans. “Soon,” he promised himself. Going slow be damned. He felt like he’d been patient forever.
“Done!” she announced when she was back in the truck, reaching behind her to give the dogs a pet. “Is this your land?”
“It is.” Benjen swept his hand in front of the steering wheel, indicating the expanse before him. “I love this place, it’s one of the prettiest spots in the Hill Country.”
Apple could believe it. She sat up straighter in the seat, so she could see everything clearer. “The contrast between the craggy rocks of Packsaddle Mountain and the white water in the creek below is amazing. You must be very proud to call this ranch home.”
“My brothers and I are debating who keeps the Rock House and who’ll move out and build eventually. I would love to be the one to stay in the original homestead, but if not, I’ve picked out a nice spot. I’ll show it to you one day, if you like.”
“That sounds nice.” As they came nearer the river, she could see the pink granite rocks twinkling in the afternoon sun. “I should’ve brought my phone. Could you take a few photos for me?”
&
nbsp; “Sure, I’ll get several with you and the dogs,” he promised as he found a place to park under a shade tree.
“Oh, none of me. The dogs and the scenery will be fine. I don’t like to have my picture taken.” Following his lead, she exited the vehicle, opening the back door to take Rose’s leash as she jumped to the ground.
“I don’t know why, you’re gorgeous.”
Apple blushed but ignored his compliment. “Do you think we should keep Rose on the leash?” Hope was already dancing around her feet, anxious to make friends with the Shepherd.
“I think she’ll be okay. Let’s try it. We’re a good piece from the highway and if she slips away, I’ll get a horse and find her quickly enough.” He gathered a blanket and a basket from the floorboard of the driver’s side backseat. “Come on, let’s find a place to spread this out and have a bite to eat.”
Apple removed the leash from Rose’s collar, feeling a little uneasy as the big dog bounded off. “I discovered one thing she’s deathly afraid of – fire, especially the grill.”
“The grill, like a charcoal grill?” Benjen waited for Apple at the front of his truck, placing one hand at her back as he guided her toward a comfortable looking bed of grass next to the water.
“Yea, I just turned on the small gas grill on the patio to cook a burger and found her cowering in the corner staring at the back window. I tried to lead her outside and she balked on me. She continued to do this until I gave up and turned it off, then she was back to normal.”
“Huh, that’s strange.” He frowned as he watched the dogs frolicking in a patch of reeds next to the river. “I’m having some really bad thoughts about it. Can you imagine someone holding a puppy over the grill just to scare it?”
“No, I can’t.” Apple shivered.
“If I ever found out that was true, I don’t think I could rest until I gave that woman a piece of my mind.”
“I’d be hard-pressed not to give her a piece of me,” Apple said with her mouth set in an uncompromising straight line.
