When the child stopped to take a bite, Rico smiled at Chelsea. “How are you feeling?”
“Better. It’s good to get some fresh air after a few days cooped up in the house. The aches are finally starting to subside, and the headache is manageable. Don’t bump the nose. That’s still quite sensitive.”
As they ate, Theo asked about the house, and Chelsea told him what had been done and what she still planned to do.
“If you want to look around, Theo, I’ll keep the munchkin here and her menagerie occupied.”
“Thanks, Rico.” Theo pushed all his trash back into the bag, then reached out for her hand.
“We won’t be long,” she promised as they headed up the steps into the house.
Since she’d already filled him in on most of the projects, it was simply a matter of taking him through. In her bedroom, they both grew quiet.
“You know, I was thinking,” Theo said, coming up behind her and holding her close. “Once you have this place all decked out the way you want, it’s going to be amazing. Quite a place to live.”
What was he saying? That they could sell it for good money, or did he expect her to stay here once her injury was totally healed?
“Yeah. It’ll be great.”
“Have you thought about living here?”
All she did was shrug.
His nose nestled into her hair, and he kissed her birthmark. “Could you possibly consider living here with Jordan and me?”
Whipping around, she clutched his shoulders. “Would you want to?”
“I want to be anywhere you are, pixie.” His eyes held her captive.
“That’s what I want, too. Here or at your house or…it doesn’t matter. You and Jordan matter.”
The crooked grin that showcased his dimples appeared. “I’ve lived in my place for a while now, and it’s home, but I have to admit the view here is a darned sight better. Not to mention, there’s a ton more space to spread out.”
“We could have a room for the dog and one for the kittens,” she teased.
Pulling her close, he slipped his hands in her hair and kissed her. Sweet and gentle but with deep emotion. “Or one for anyone else that comes along. Especially after last night.”
His eyes blazed with desire, and her cheeks grew hot. “Maybe we should be more careful.”
“Maybe for now.” He pressed his lips against hers again, his body so close she could feel his arousal. He lifted his head. “While I’d love to have more children with you, it hasn’t been that long since you returned. It might be a good idea to take our time. I don’t plan on letting you go again.”
“I have absolutely no plans to go anywhere. Except your arms.”
As his head lowered to nibble on her neck, he said, “I like that. It’s a good plan.”
Chapter twenty-two
“Ioweyouafew, don’t I, Theo?” Rico asked, his expression odd.
Theo eyed the group congregating at the Wildwood Stables, ready for the sunset carriage ride up Day Mountain. What was his friend talking about?
“Sure, I’ll bet you owe me lots.” He’d play along. “Is it time for me to collect?”
Looking back over his shoulder, Rico edged in closer. “Yeah, I figure I’ll keep Jordan occupied for the night, so you can have a little snuggle with Chelsea on the carriage ride.”
Theo smirked as he noticed Dina glancing their way with that predatory look in her eyes. Since he’d made it quite clear he wasn’t available, she must be thinking of getting her hooks into Rico. Poor man.
“Okay?” Rico checked, and Theo nodded.
