Caroline heard the humor in his voice, and she couldn’t help the smile coming from her lips.
“Come on,” he said softly. “Let’s have fun, and then I’ll take you home. I have something I want to tell you.”
Reluctantly, she took his hand and let him lead her back to the barn. He went to the bar and brought back a strawberry lemonade.
“I didn’t know if you’re still taking medication. I can get you a beer or a glass of wine if you prefer,” he said, sitting beside her.
“No. I’m fine. I finished the meds, but I’m not in the mood for a drink. Lemonade sounds perfect.”
They watched as Riley and Garrett cut the cake and shared a piece. Garrett gently wiped the corner of Riley’s mouth with a napkin. They seemed like they spent the day inside their own little bubble.
The servers placed dinner in the middle of the table, serving it family style. Some of the cowboys entered the barn, fresh off their shifts. After they congratulated the couple, they sat at the tables, ready to have some fun.
Caroline took a bite of the brisket and closed her eyes. It tasted like heaven.
“How did you like Delaney’s fried chicken? I haven’t found anyone who cooks it like her,” Jameson said, taking a bite of the potato salad.
I didn’t eat it because I waited for you.
“It tasted great,” she said, focusing on her food. “I can’t believe she made extra appetizers for the wedding. She seems miserable in her last trimester.”
“Delaney never stops. She’s like the pink bunny,” Jameson said. “At least Mac makes her sit and get off her feet.”
“They’re together?” she asked, surprised.
“I’m not sure. One day, they seem close, and the next day, Mac acts like he’s too old to get out of bed to have a girlfriend,” he informed her. “I see you met Tara.”
“Yes, she’s a sweetie,” Caroline said as one of the younger cowboys sat beside her, earning a scowl from Garrett. “I think Garrett will have his hands full with Riley and Tara,” she said, giggling.
“It serves the bastard right. They’ll knock him around when he acts stupid again. And I’m sure it’ll happen soon.”
Caroline picked at the food, trying the homemade pickles and peppers.
The newlyweds rose as guests finished their dinner. Garrett pulled Riley close as they walked onto the dance floor. A slow song played, and he tenderly kissed his new bride. The scene seemed so intimate, Caroline glanced away, feeling like she was intruding. When the song ended, they invited everyone to join them.
“Do you want to dance?” Jameson asked quietly.
His hand tugged her to stand, and he led her to the dance floor. Jameson wrapped his arm around her and swayed with her cheek to cheek. His scruff scratched against her tender skin, but she didn’t care. His leather scent pulled her back in, making her feel safe and cared for.
Her head lay against his shoulder, and she listened to the familiar sound of his heartbeat, making her relax. Her body drifted closer to his, and his hold on her tightened. “I like your haircut. It really flatters you.”
“Thank you. I can’t take the credit. Rachel told him what she wanted done. She’s like a hurricane.”
Jameson chuckled. “I know.”
The song came to an end, and he stepped back, appearing to feel as affected as her.
They walked off, and instead of returning to the table, Jameson stopped her.
“Do you mind if we leave?” he asked. “I’ve completed all my duties.”
Anticipation filled her as he took her to his truck and helped her inside. Jameson drove down the country road, crossing over the ranch land. He pulled into the driveway of cabin number four.
Jameson turnedoff the engine and walked around to help Caroline out of the truck. As always, the electric jolt he got every time he touched her ran down his spine. He spied the multiple lights she left on inside the cabin and wisely didn’t say anything as they walked up the porch.
“Have you met the other women?” he asked as she punched in the security code.
“Yes, they’re very nice. I’ve made friends, take my meds, go to bed on time, and eat my fruits and vegetables,” she said, saucily.
