His manner of speaking charmed her as much as his virile body. “If we keep this up, we won’t need any condoms.”
“Oh, we need ’em. Much as I fancy the alternative, there’s nothing like pushing deep and watching your eyes glow and your cheeks turn pink. It’ll be even better in daylight.”
“And we’ll feel the soft breeze on our skin.”
He chuckled. “Can’t promise I’ll notice a breeze on my arse when I’m in the moment.”
“Have you ever done it outside?”
“I have not. Was thinking about it until Rance came up with this scheme.”
“Lani was afraid we’d try that and be eaten by a bear. But my theory is you take a horseback ride out to your spot. If any critters show up, the horses will let you know in advance.”
“Sounds like I need to learn how to ride a horse.”
“You should.”
“Taking a ride out into nature to make love would be a grand adventure.”
“That’s what I like about it.”
“I’m ready for adventure.”
It could have been a casual statement except for the resolute way he said it, as if he’d come to a decision. “Got a particular one in mind?”
“I do, yeah. More plane trips to Montana. I let the cost of a ticket hold me back. I don’t have much in savings anymore, but I have skills. If Desiree bought my ticket, I could work off the debt during my stay. A place this massive can always use a fella who knows how to swing a hammer.”
Her breath caught. Resourceful. And in line with Angie’s thinking, although she wanted him fulltime. “How often would you come?”
“Depends on what I can negotiate with my employer. I’d love to make it over here two or three times a year. Maybe even more.”
“What about Granny?”
“She should be fine if I’m only gone a couple of weeks at a stretch. It’s not like she needs me to shop for her or take her places. Sure, she’d miss me, but Lucky and I have years to catch up on. She’d be all for that.”
“Would you make a stop in New Jersey?”
“You know I would. But I could also time my visits for when you’ll be here.”
He’d just taken a flying leap forward. Her chest tightened. Was it anxiety or excitement? She couldn’t tell. “Are you suggesting a long-distance relationship?”
“That I am.” Cupping her chin, he coaxed her to look up at him. “What d’ya think?”
She gulped. “I thought you wanted the whole works — marriage, a family.”
“It’s still on the table.”
“I—”
“But first we’d have to see how this setup turns out.”
The jury was in. Her chest hurt because his plan wouldn’t work for them the way he hoped. “I don’t see it going well.”
“How can you say that?” He frowned. “We haven’t even?—”
“It’s brilliant for connecting with Lucky and the McLintocks. I’m sure they’ll be excited about it. But we won’t be seeing as much of each other as you imagine.”
“Why not?”
