Page 29 of A Simple Life

It was easy to identify which one was Abby’s. The bright-pink walls, the frilly curtains and bedspread. The toys strewn around. I had to admit the color was too much for me, but I knew the kid loved it, and that was all that mattered.

Unable to help myself, I peeked into Quinn’s room. The walls were a soft green, her bed some sort of wicker. It was light and feminine, and it smelled like her as I inhaled the fragrance that lingered in the air.

I hurried back down the hall, not wanting to be caught snooping. She came from the kitchen with a tray, and I opened the door, sitting beside her on the porch. She handed me a drink and picked up a plate. “You must be hungry.”

I eyed the snacks with appreciation, taking a sausage roll and biting down. The flaky pastry and spicy meat made me groan.

“These are incredible.”

“I was thinking of adding them to the menu. On an appetizer plate.”

I nodded, taking another bite. “I’d order them,” I muttered around a mouthful.

“Hell getting cold again?” she teased.

“Positively frigid.”

“Good. But don’t let Abby talk you into sharing your food.”

I chuckled. “I didn’t mind. Cody does the same.”

“Your nephew, right?”

“Yep.”

“He was showing off his new bike at the park. Said his uncle J bought it for him as a birthday gift.” She studied me. “Told me his uncle J is the best guy around.”

“He exaggerates.”

She picked up her drink, taking a sip. “Somehow I think he doesn’t. I’m beginning to see past your big, bad bear routine, John.”

I picked up my drink, not saying anything.

Yet, somehow, the news made me smile.

8

JOHN

Igot up to leave, thanking Quinn for the snack. She frowned.

“What?”

“After all your hard work, you should see her reaction when she sees her swing. She’ll be so excited.”

“Nah, it’s fine. I need to get home to the chickens and cows.”

She stood. “Thank you.”

I nodded. “Yep.”

She put her hand on my arm and rolled up on her toes. I knew she was going to kiss my cheek again, and once more, I found myself turning my head so our lips met. Except this time, no one was around. No one to break the bubble that suddenly surrounded us.

I wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her closer. She slid her hand up my arm, her fingers grasping my neck. I groaned as I flicked my tongue on her lips, and she opened for me.

I kissed her more. Deeper. She kissed me back. I held her tighter, and she whimpered softly. Our mouths separated, then came back together, unable to stay apart. I kissed her until I couldn’t breathe. Until her grip was so tight I knew I was holding her up. Then I pulled away, letting her lay her head on my chest. My breathing was fast, my chest pumping needed oxygen into my bloodstream. She was quiet, her body melding to mine perfectly.

I eased back, meeting her eyes. I saw no regret, no censure in them. I touched her cheek.