AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“’Bye, Bex.” Bree ended the call and dropped the phone in her clutch. She surveyed herself in the mirror one last time.
This is business. Relax. Have fun.
It was a hollow claim, because the closer she got to the door, the faster her heart beat.
* * *
Bree opened the door. “You’re early.”
“And you…look amazing.” Wes jammed his hands in his pockets and leaned against the doorway.
“You sound surprised.” There was a nervous lilt to her laughter. “I’d like to think I cleaned up pretty well the night we met.”
“You did, but tonight…” He sucked in a deep breath as he surveyed her from head to toe. “Let’s just say you’ve turned it up a notch.”
Brianna looked stunning in a form-fitting little black dress that was ultra-feminine and incredibly flattering on her body. The draped neckline drew his attention to her full breasts. The bow-tie belt detail highlighted her small waist and the clingy fabric hugged every single curve.
He cleared his throat as he took a cream-colored cashmere cardigan from her and helped her into it.
She tied the sash at her waist, grabbed her bag and stepped into the hall.
Wes followed her to the elevator, his eyes drawn to how the fabric hugged her curvy bottom. He dragged his eyes away and punched the down button for the elevator.
“You’re going to love this restaurant.” Wes stared at the elevator doors rather than looking at her. “And this is one of my favorite places to stay whenever I come here.”
“It’s a beautiful hotel, and it’s right across the street from the Biltmore Estate.” Bree ran her fingers through her shoulder-length curls. “Almost makes me wish we were going to be here a bit longer, so I’d have time to visit.”
“Careful.” He grinned inwardly, determined not to ruin the surprise he had planned for her the next day. “Almost sounds like you’re enjoying your time with me.”
“Don’t get too cocky.” She laughed. “It’s too early to make that call, but so far…yes. I am enjoying the trip.”
“Fair enough.” He stepped off the elevator and offered his arm to her. She reluctantly slipped her arm through his and fell in step beside him.
They entered the restaurant, greeted by the enticing scent of savory, grilled meat. The gentle strains of live guitar music filled the air.
“It’s like an upscale hunting lodge.” Bree surveyed the brown-and-red leather seating and the antler chandeliers hanging overhead. “I honestly wouldn’t have thought that was possible.”
Wes chuckled. “Wait until you taste the food.”
“I’ve already studied the menu, so I know exactly what I want.”
His gaze raked over Bree, his heart beating a little faster. He knew exactly what he wanted, too. But it would be better for both of them if he showed restraint.
They were shown to a table, then placed their orders, falling into an easy conversation about Asheville and some of the activities he enjoyed here.
“Tomorrow morning, I’ll take you on a walking tour of downtown. It’s called the Urban Trail.” Wes sipped his beer.
“You’ve probably done the trail at least a half a dozen times.”
“Actually, I’ve only done it once with my mother and aunt. Normally, when I come to town I prefer something a little more challenging. Like a brisk hike.”
Bree raised an eyebrow, as if she’d been challenged. “Then let’s do that instead.”
“The hike takes about four hours.”
“Then we should get started early.”
“The trail can be pretty muddy and it’s challenging for a beginner.”
“Who says I’m a beginner?” Bree asked incredulously. “You do know I make my living as an athlete, right?”
“Fine.” Wes raised his hands, giving in. Bree was determined to go hiking with him. Maybe they’d take the city walking tour later. “Then we’d better make it an early night.”
He was disappointed by the prospect.
“Not necessarily.” She shrugged. “I’m not in training right now. I can handle staying up past my bedtime. Unless you’re the one who can’t function without eight hours of beauty sleep.”
