Page 46 of Falling for the Maverick

“The Dark Knight mix. You don’t have to see the film to feel the action. If you don’t mind, I’m going to sync my phone with yours and download some of my favorites.”

“You can go on YouTube and download them all.”

“That’s something I can do when I’m not busy—which is never.”

Michelle knew he’d assumed the responsibility of working his ranch without help and that meant working from sunup to sundown. Plus she’d heard he still helped his dad with the finances of the dry-cleaning business. No wonder there was no time in his day for a wife and family. She wondered how long he’d be able to keep that pace before physically burning out.

The return drive to Tenacity was completed in rec­ord time. As they approached the gates to the Circle C, Michelle reached for her phone and tapped the app to open the gates, allowing Lucas to drive through. “I won’t close the gates remotely until you send me a text message that you’re through.”

“That’s something I still haven’t done. Put up gates leading to the ranch.”

“At least you have a directional marker,” she said.

“Yeah, but in the future, I’d like to put up gates to deter potential trespassers who maybe intent on stealing a few horses.”

“You do have a security system, don’t you?”

“Oh yes. I have cameras all over the property that are monitored by a security company, but I would feel better with gates. And Flash is quite a watchdog.”

“The dogs on the Circle C are more sooners than watchdogs. They rather rest than work.”

“That’s because you’ve spoiled them, Michelle.”

“Because they’re my babies.”

Lucas chuckled. “I could just imagine you with kids. There’s no doubt they would be spoiled rotten.”

“Spoiled and loved,” she said. She pointed through the windshield. “You can park here. And don’t get out. I live at the back of the house.”

“Are you sure you don’t want me to walk you to your door? After all it’s the gentlemanly thing to do after a date.”

“I truly appreciate the offer, but once inside the gates, I’m safe.” Leaning to her left, she kissed his jaw. “Good night and thank you for a wonderful evening.”

“Good night, bae.”

She got out of the car and walked to her private door. The night had been more than wonderful. It had been perfect. She walked into the bedroom suite, sat on the cushioned bench at the foot of the bed and took off her boots.

Michelle heard a familiar ringtone and picked up her phone. It was Lucas telling her that he’d left the property. She sent him a thumbs-up emoji, then tapped the app that would close the gates.

Even though he was gone, she knew memories of their evening would be replaying in her mind all night long.

* * *

Lucas headed toward the Big Doggo and saw a speeding vehicle approaching him. He downshifted, slowing to let it pass. There was enough light coming from a near-full moon to recognize Aaron Corey as the driver. He wasn’t certain whether Aaron recognized him, but he knew for certain it was Michelle’s brother.

Then he recalled what she’d told him about Aaron not wanting him to have anything to do with his sister. Well, it was too late. Because not only was he dating Aaron’s sister, but he planned to continue doing so until the end of the month. Then, they both had a decision to make.

Chapter Eleven

Lucas was waiting for Michelle when she pulled up to the wooded area on his ranch and parked. It had been raining off and on for a couple of days and with the drop in temperature was now sleet, the icy pellets hitting the windshield in a rhythmic tapping. She’d lost the wager and was ready to pay up by preparing what he’d called a down-home Southern dinner. He opened the door to the Jeep and helped her down.

“The picnic hamper is on the rear seat.” She had made all the necessary preparations beforehand; the only remaining task was to place the items in the oven for cooking. “Please don’t tilt it, Lucas.”

He gave her a disapproving look, then carefully took the hamper off the rear seat. “What did you make?”

“You’ll see once we get inside.” Michelle practically ran to the house, Flash barking and following her. Lucas had come outside wearing only a T-shirt and jeans, and just looking at him made her cold.

Sitting on a porch chair, she slipped off her boots and walked on sock-covered feet into the house. She hung up her wool jacket and slouch hat on the coat-tree, smiling. The house was warm and filled with the distinctive smell of burning wood.