42
Christie took a well-deserved mid-morning break. It was now a couple of days since the wedding and all the family guests had gone. In fact, all the rooms except for two were vacant. It was a relief to be a little less hectic and have a more tranquil environment. Even Dermot had calmed down and seemed glad of a bit of peace and quiet; well, he wasn’t getting any younger, he’d remarked. No, Christie had reflected, he wasn’t and soon he would be leaving The Templar altogether to enjoy his well-earned retirement.
Once again, Christie’s apprehensions bubbled to the surface when contemplating this; after all, it wasn’t exactly what she’d bought into was it? When she had taken on The Templar, it was supposed to be a partnership with Stephen, not going solo. Then, realising she really didn’t need a partner like Stephen in any event, concluded she was most likely better off on her own. That said, it would be nice to have a second opinion, that reassurance another partner would give. Christie appreciated how fortunate she was to have had Daniel’s input. The bedrooms were a triumph, really adding character to the upstairs.
After finishing her coffee, she decided to pay him a visit on site. Every credit to him, he was there every day overseeing and working alongside Tobias’ team of builders. Often he would carry on after they’d finished for the day, and then either shower, change and have his evening meal in The Templar, or sink into Christie’s bath and soak his aching body.
Walking along the public footpath through the Treweham Hall woods, she soon came to the clearing where Keeper’s Cottage stood. Already, the footprint of the house could be seen and the external stone walls were being built up. There Daniel was, wheel-barrowing sand, ready to put in the mixer. It was strenuous work and a hot day, which is why he was only wearing shorts and no top. Christie’s eyes devoured his toned, muscular body and her stomach gave a flip. He noticed her walking towards him and his face lit up with a smile.
‘Hello there, what brings you here?’ He wiped his forehead with his arm.
‘Just thought I’d see how it was all coming along.’ Christie turned to look at the building. ‘It’s looking impressive, isn’t it?’
‘It will, once all the external walls are finished and the roof frame goes up.’
‘You’re making good progress,’ she remarked, watching all the busy workmen.
‘We are, fancy a quick drink?’ He nodded towards his campervan. They both made their way out of the sun and inside.
Christie was surprised at how spacious it was, as Daniel poured them both a cool lemonade. He plonked himself down on the two-seater settee next to her.
‘It’s quite quaint in here,’ she said, taking in the décor. It was all there, just on a smaller scale, along with the cute kitchenette, with its little sink and draining board, oven and fridge.
‘I know.’ Daniel smiled. ‘Emily loves it in here.’ There was a charged pause. ‘How about a camp-side supper tonight?’ Daniel suggested, taking Christie by surprise.
‘That sounds like fun. What should I bring?’
‘Just your lovely self.’ He looked at her seductively, then added, ‘And a bottle of wine.’
‘You’re on.’ She met his gaze, then ran her eyes down his bare chest and taut, flat stomach. What could be better than sharing a camp-side supper with this man under a starry sky?
So, as planned, Christie found herself walking back through the woods carrying a bottle of wine in the balmy early evening. Daniel had set up a barbeque. It smelt heavenly as she made her way across to him.
‘Hmm, that looks good.’ Burgers and sausages were cooking nicely, while barm cakes and a salad were set out on a small picnic table. Christie sat on one of the deckchairs, whilst Daniel poured her a glass of wine.
‘Cheers, it won’t be long.’ Daniel looked quite domesticated in his jeans, T-shirt and apron.
‘Thanks.’ Christie took a sip of the crisp white wine that Daniel had been chilling in a bucket. This was the life, she thought, relaxing in the great outdoors. She looked at Keeper’s Cottage and noticed even more progress since that afternoon. She glanced towards Daniel, concentrating on turning the food over on the grill. She’d wager he’d have the cottage ready in no time, judging by his drive and commitment. Plus, it was giving him something to focus on, instead of mulling over Emily. Christie daren’t ask when the appeal was, that’s if a hearing date had even been set yet. Within a few minutes he was handing her a plate with perfectly cooked sausages and burger.
‘Help yourself to salad.’ He sat down opposite her and took a mouthful of wine. He’d definitely caught the sun, giving him a healthy, golden glow, instead of that pale complexion he’d had days ago. Yes, the outdoor life certainly suited him.
Daniel caught her assessing him and smiled to himself. He could tell by her appreciative expression she liked what she saw, and likewise. Who could resist her sexy curves in that sundress, showcasing her cleavage and her long, shapely legs? He longed to run his fingers up her elegant neck and into her shiny, brunette hair. He took another swig of wine and tried to cool himself; hell she turned him on.
The two of them enjoyed chatting and just relaxing in the still night air. As dusk fell, the sounds of the woods came alive with owl hoots and the rustle of branches.
‘This really is a beautiful spot,’ remarked Christie absorbing the atmosphere.
‘It sure is,’ agreed Daniel. This was the most comfortable he’d been in ages. ‘Come inside, I’ll make us a coffee.’
Christie followed him into the campervan. She too was feeling chilled, especially after the frantic few days they’d all had at The Templar. She looked at the back of him as he made them a drink and once again admired his broad shoulders and muscular arms. On impulse, and perhaps good spirits, she crept up behind him and put her arms round his waist.
‘Hmm, very nice.’ He turned around to face her and hugged her further into him. Christie’s head rested on his shoulder.
‘I love your smell.’ She kissed his neck and Daniel could feel himself start to respond. With a groan he ran both hands into her dark curls and moved her head to face him. His lips sought hers and they kissed softly at first, then it deepened into an urgent passion as they pulled at each other’s clothes, both eager to touch bare skin. Daniel led Christie to the far end of the campervan. The moon shone through the widows, illuminating the bed tucked at the back. He threw back the covers and gently pulled Christie in to join him.
She ran her hands up his hard thighs, then felt his cock harden and pulse under her palm. She slowly rubbed up and down his shaft, making him moan with pleasure, until he couldn’t take anymore. Holding her hips with each hand, he positioned her to straddle him and then gradually guided himself into her. Christie cried out and gripped him as he started to move inside her. She felt hot and slick as he edged further and probed deeper. Christie matched his rhythm and her body moved in unison with Daniel’s until they both reached a shattering release.
Christie moved to lie next to him, with her head on his chest, and together they fell into a blissful sleep.
