She smiled and slid into a half curtsy. “Why certainly, Mr. Fairbanks.” She took his arm and went with him to the center of the barn floor.
The dance was a quick, toe-tapping, knee-slapping rhythm, and the dance floor filled quickly. Adam’s capable hands led her around the floor with ease. His quick feet kept the beat and didn’t step on her toes even once, which relieved her since most of her dances were spent moving her feet from under her partner’s.
She laughed from exhaustion when the dance ended. She followed Adam off the floor and over to the water bucket. She accepted the water, grateful that it eased her parched throat and helped to cool her temperature.
“That was enjoyable.” He laughed and took another long drink.
After setting her cup down, she daintily wiped her moist brow with a handkerchief. “Yes, it was. You’re a really good dancer. Wherever did you learn?”
“I’ll never tell my secrets.”
“Confess, Adam. In fact, I wouldn’t doubt that you leave broken hearts in every town you visit. Are there many women waiting for your return? Could one of these lucky women be the one who taught you to dance?”
He leaned closer. “I’ll never tell.”
She swatted his arm playfully. “You’re cruel, absolutely cruel.”
“And you’re as cute as a bug.” He slipped his arm around her waist and pulled her next to his side. “Would you like to go outside for some fresh air?”
She held her breath. This was it. This was when she would convince him to kiss her. “I suppose I could use a little fresh air, but let’s wait a little bit longer.”
“Anything you wish.”
“Anything?” she asked, and he nodded. “Well, I would like more punch.”
“I’ll go get some now.”
He turned and walked away, but just as he disappeared into the crowd, another approached her.
“Hello, Mr. Slade.” She arched an eyebrow. “Are you having a good time?”
Jesse's smile widened. “Yessiree. Tell me one person who isn’t havin’ fun?”
Jesse’s gaze moved over her body, and his boldness stirred her blood. She trembled and wished she could react differently.
“Summer?” he asked. “Would you honor me with the next dance?”
She should tell him no, but when excitement shot through her, she realized she wanted to be in his arms again.
“I suppose I can dance with you this time.”
She cautiously slipped her arm around Jesse’s elbow as he escorted her to the dance floor. Once the fiddle began singing, she realized her hopes of being in his arms would come true since they’d be dancing the waltz.
Jesse curved his arm around her waist and cradled her fingers in his large hand. “You look mighty pretty tonight,” he said softly.
She blushed but hoped he would think her flushed face was the result of the heat in the barn. “Thank you. And I think you look exceptionally handsome.”
His eyebrow rose, and he missed a step. “Oh, really? I didn’t think you noticed.”
“Why wouldn’t I notice you?”
“Because you’ve been too busy flirtin’ with other men.”
She widened her eyes. “Have you been spying on me, Jesse?” She shook her head. “Tsk, tsk. Shame on you. Don’t you know that it’s rude to ogle your fiancée’s sister?”
He lifted an eyebrow. “I wouldn’t exactly call it oglin’, Summer.”
“What would you call it?” She leaned closer and lowered her voice. “Would you call it... lusting?”
