The short ride is nice, a quiet autumn scene. I love this time of year. I love taking Christian for rides on the quad. I should have taken it to Colton’s, but I’m really not wearing the right shoes for it. I laugh at the image of me showing up on a muddy quad, wearing patent leather heels.
When I arrive, the gates are already open. The Scotch pines are majestic as they form a canopy over the winding drive leading up to the main house. I’d never noticed that before, too caught up in my own nerves. There are a lot of other structures on the property; garages, sheds, and what I assume is the guest house. There is so much to see, so much I haven’t explored. Over the years, I’ve seen much of the property. From the lake, you can spot the multiple docks and a majestic boat house surrounded by a wraparound dock. The fire pit and sitting area are also visible from the lake, as are two large cabins and a glass enclosed space which has always left me curious. I’m surprised there’s no helicopter landing pad.
I’ve parked my old jeep along the long drive. It is an eyesore, sitting here amongst this beautiful haven. Oh, well…
My heart pounds a mile a minute as I press my finger on the doorbell. I rub the sleeves of my orange fall jacket, and regret the choice. It does not work with the red shoes. Oh, well…
I’m happy when Colton answers the door. “Come in,” he urges. “It’s chilly outside.”
“A little,” I agree. “What? No butler tonight?”
He grins playfully. “Nope… it’s just me. That’s okay I hope.”
Athos joins us, swirling in figure eights around Colton’s legs. He’s the one who always greets people at the door. The other two can’t be bothered.
I peel off my eyesore of a jacket. “Of course.”
“I won’t try to get fresh… I promise.” He presses a finger on his bottom lip as he eyes me for a long beat. “On second thought… I can’t make any such promises. You look amazing.”
I blush a little. “Not too fancy?” I ask, noticing his disheveled hair, one-week-old beard, worn jeans and plain white T. But damn, he still looks so good. Real good.
“No, you’re perfect,” he assures me. “I’m the one who looks like a slob.”
“Uh… you look… good.” I hesitate to communicate my attraction. I really don’t want him to know I find him irresistible.
“You notice something different about me?” he asks, all smiles, and I just want to jump him right there and then, on the cold travertine floor in the entry hall. I study him carefully because he’s basically given me the go-ahead to do so. Bless him.
“I don’t know… you’re dressed a lot more casually than you usually are,” I say. “Your hair is a little longer?”
He strokes his chin. “Anything else?”
“Oh… the beard,” I blurt out. “You’re not as clean shaven as usual.”
He smiles. “Well, you did say you like your men rough around the edges. I’m trying to be more your type.”
I laugh out loud.Oh… you’re my type all right. No worries there.
I peel off the heels, and the floor is freezing.
He waves me in. “Come in. I’ve got something for you.”
