Page 32 of Falling for the Maverick

“Lucas,” she whispered again.

“It’s okay. We don’t need to rush into anything. You’re not going anywhere, and neither am I.” He pressed a kiss under her ear. “Let’s go downstairs, so I can show you the rest of the house.”

Michelle was certain he heard her exhale of relief. If she was going to sleep with Lucas, it would be because she wanted him. Not because she needed him to help her rid herself of past relationships. Her head reeled from what could’ve possibly occurred if she’d told Lucas that she wanted him to make love to her. She composed herself, then followed him downstairs.

The lower level was a combination of a sports bar and a lounge. A huge television almost filled one entire wall, while an oversize leather sofa coordinated with six chairs arranged around bistro tables. A mahogany bar with four stools occupied another wall, along with a popcorn machine, and set the stage for fun and relaxation.

“So, this is where you’ll watch games with your buddies?”

“I told you ladies are invited, too.”

“I’ll pass and wait for ladies’ night.”

“Sorry, bae. There’s no ladies’ night at Big Doggo. All genders are equal. Just come as you are.”

“It’s different with us. Once Tiffany and Remi are back from their honeymoon, we’re going to have our ladies’ night. Amy Hawkins-Aventura and Faith Strom will also join us.”

“Okay.”

“Just okay, Lucas?”

“Yes,” he said, smiling. “Remember I grew up with three sisters. When they wanted to talk about something they didn’t want me or Ethan to know, they would lock themselves in a room and not come out for hours.”

“That didn’t bother you?”

“Nah, because most of the time all they did was giggle.”

“Do you think growing up with three sisters helped you understand women better?”

“No. Women are like fingerprints. Every individual possesses unique qualities. Some good and some not so good. You grew up with four brothers, so did that prepare you for your encounters with men?”

“It was the complete opposite,” she said truthfully. “I believed they would be like my brothers, and that’s where I made my mistake. I trusted them. And in the end I wound up the loser in the relationship.”

“Do you want to talk about it?”

She shook her head. “It’s ancient history. And I would like for it to remain in the past.” She paused. “Is that Flash barking?”

“Yes, because he probably wants to go out. After I let him out, I’ll cook for us. What say you?”

Michelle smiled. “I say yes.”

Chapter Eight

Michelle sat between Lucas’s legs on a cushioned recliner, watching the waning sunlight give way to nightfall as if someone had pulled down a shade to block out the light. Admiring the beautiful soft violet that silhouetted the mountains before darkness descended, she now knew why Lucas sat outdoors to witness the event. And despite the drop in temperatures, she didn’t mind the chill. It was offset by the warmth of the large body pressed against hers.

“Are you ready to go in?” Lucas whispered in her ear.

“No. I’d like to stay out a little bit longer.” She was not only full but also drowsy. Dinner had been rib eye steaks, Mexican street corn and coleslaw, all so delicious she’d told Lucas he could cook for her every day. She was surprised to find not only the fire pit and fireplace he’d mentioned but also an outdoor kitchen with a sink and fridge behind the house.

“I can go in and bring you one of my sweaters.”

Michelle smiled. “I don’t need a sweater. You’re like a puffy coat.”

“Are you saying I’m hot?”

Shifting slightly, Michelle glanced over her shoulder. “I’m talking about your body heat.”

“So was I,” Lucas stated.