Morgan grabbed his hand and led him toward the bar, guiding them to two empty stools on the end. “How’s this?”
“Perfect. Are you hungry?” He spoke loudly to ensure she could hear him over the music.
“I ate something earlier. I’m up for a drink, though.”
“What would you like?”
“Sweet tea and vodka.”
TJ raised an eyebrow. “I love sweet tea, but can’t say I’ve ever had it spiked.”
“Try it, you might like it.”
“I’ll stick to beer, thank you very much.”
After getting their drinks, they turned in their seats to face the crowd and watch the dance floor. The DJ was alternating Elvis tunes with modern country songs. TJ silently wished for a slow song so he could take Morgan in his arms in this very public place. He didn’t have to wait long, as he recognized the opening notes of “Always on my Mind.” He expected to hear Willie Nelson’s distinctive croon begin the song, but instead the voice of Elvis Presley filled the building. “Hmm. I didn’t expect to hear Elvis singing Willie Nelson’s song.”
She smirked. “Elvis sang it first, I’ll have you know.”
“Really? I never knew that. Will you dance with me?”
“I’d love to.”
He stood and offered his hand to Morgan, then led her to an open spot on the dance floor. Although she was petite in size, with the slight heel on her boots, her head fit nicely right in the crook of his neck. He pulled her in as close as he could, enjoying the soft feel of her hair and lips against the side of his neck. He didn’t know how many verses of the song Elvis planned to sing, but he hoped it would go on forever.
After Elvis sang the last note, TJ stood in place, gently rocking back and forth, reluctant to release Morgan. Since his eyes were closed, he hadn’t realized they were the only couple remaining on the dance floor until the DJ announced “here’s another slow song for the cowboy and his lady.”
5
MORGAN
Morgan felt like she was drifting on a cloud, nestled securely in TJ’s arms as they swayed along with the music. Time stood still, and the tension and stress of the situation with her father were swept away until there was nothing and no one but she and TJ. When the second song started, she hummed along to the words of “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Was that what was happening with her? Was she falling in love with this man she’d just met? Instead of panic, warmth infused her body as the phrase from the song “meant to be” kept repeating in her head.
She was still floating in a state of euphoria as TJ took her hand and led her back to the bar. She slowly emerged when she realized he was speaking to her. She smiled softly and blinked. “I’m sorry. What did you say?”
He chuckled. “I asked if you wanted another drink.”
She didn’t need alcohol to enhance the feeling of intoxication she was already experiencing. Now she understood what people meant when they talked about a natural high.
“Can we go? I’d really just like to spend some time quiet time with you.”
“Whatever you want, little filly.”
* * *
Morgan tried her best to ignore the curious stares from the other customers in the diner. After a night of leisurely lovemaking, she now had to face the real world. Everyone knew everyone else in Green Springs, so the inquisitiveness had more to do with the handsome stranger than with her. Thank goodness today was Sunday, because if it had been Saturday, her father would be at his usual booth with Nolan, and there’s no way she could have agreed to have breakfast here with TJ.
She was actually enjoying the feeling of freedom from her dad breathing down her neck. She hadn’t been home much the last few days, so there’d been no chance to ask any questions. From her, questions about her mother. And from him, questions about her whereabouts. Maybe her father hadn’t even noticed her absence. After all, Angela was there now to occupy his time and attention.
TJ broke into her thoughts. “So, what are your plans for the rest of the day?”
“I actually need to get home. I feed the horses on Sundays.”
“You have horses?”
“Yes. We have two horses and we board two.” She didn’t feel the need to explain about the equine therapy and rescue since it was still in its infancy.
“I’d love to get a horse once I put down some roots. Maybe we can ride together sometime. Just a thought.”
