Page 55 of Luna

“What about you? What’s your favorite meal?” she asked.

Hunter didn’t have to think about it. His mouth watered as he recalled meals their cook at Bramble Hall made. “Southern fried chicken with potatoes and gravy, or potato salad and cabbage salad, as well as green beans simmered with bacon and onion. Big, tender biscuits loaded with butter and jam. And apple pie for dessert.”

She smiled at him. “That all sounds wonderful. I’ve never had southern fried chicken, that I can recall. From the meals I’ve eaten here, there are many good cooks. Aundy is a wonderful cook, and everything she’s made that I’ve tried is superb. I suppose if I picked something not Italian, it would probably be chicken pot pie. The cook at Dogwood Corners made that one day, and I loved it. All the fresh fruit around here is wonderful too. Have you ever had Bertie Walsh’s brownies? They are incredible.”

Hunter couldn’t recall if he’d eaten brownies or even what they were at the moment. When Luna closed her eyes and licked her lips, as though she’d just tasted something divine, he lost his entire train of thought.

The urge to lean over and kiss her, to taste those ripe lips, was nearly more than he could resist. Before the temptation became too much for him, he stepped back and finished drying the last few dishes, while Luna put things away.

“I should go,” Hunter said, tossing the towel onto the counter and turning toward the door.

“I’m ever so glad you stopped by, Hunter, and I look forward to seeing you Sunday. If there is anything I can bring for lunch, please let me know.”

“Just bring yourself and that beautiful smile,” he said, lifting his hand and letting his fingers trail over Luna’s smooth cheek. “Have a good afternoon, Luna.”

“You as well, Hunter.” Her eyes had grown darker and widened, but her smile was still sweet and bright.

Lest his tight grip on his self-control slip, he hastily yanked on his boots, grabbed his hat, and hurried out to where Wind nibbled on the grass in the shade.

“Bye, Luna Moona!”

She laughed and waved at him as he swung onto the horse. As he rode down the driveway, he refused to contemplate why he felt like he was leaving behind a huge part of himself.

Chapter Seventeen

“You look lovely,” Ilsa said, walking in a circle around Luna when she appeared in the kitchen, ready to head to church.

Luna had dressed with care, choosing the shirtwaist made of exquisite lace lined with lightweight cotton that had been a gift from Ilsa. The fabric was so soft it felt like it had been spun from clouds. It was Luna’s first time wearing it and she was excited that it was a perfect match for a skirt Ilsa had helped her sew. The pairing made Luna feel stylish and pretty, something she hadn’t felt for a long time. Thanks to Hunter, she no longer worried about the scar on her neck or hiding it. It was just part of who she was now and a reminder that she could be strong.

When she settled a wide white hat on her head, Ilsa adjusted the angle and pinned it in place, then offered her a knowing grin, aware of Luna’s plans to spend the afternoon at the B Bar D Ranch.

“Don’t forget your gloves,” Laila said, handing Luna a pair of white lace gloves.

Tony walked into the kitchen and whistled. “Look at the three captivating Campanelli girls. You all are beautiful.”

“You still seem to know just the right thing to say, Tony,” Ilsa said, standing on her tiptoes and pulling his head down to give him a quick kiss.

Tony lifted her off her feet, and the kiss was anything but quick. Luna covered Laila’s eyes, but the child just giggled, well acquainted with the affection her parents bore for each other.

“Come on, we’ll wait outside.” Luna pulled Laila toward the door.

“Daddy’s always smooching on Mama,” Laila said as they stepped outside. “When are you gonna let Hunter smooch you?”

Shocked by the question, Luna stopped on the porch step and stared at her young cousin.

Tony poked his head around the open door with a wide grin. “I’d like to know that as well. When are you gonna let him smooch you?”

Ilsa sailed by her husband and swatted him with the fan she carried. “You two quit picking on Luna. It’s none of anyone’s business when she decides to let Hunter steal a kiss. Although, from the lovesick way he looked at her the other day, I’d advise not making him wait too long.”

Tony chuckled and closed the door behind them, then offered his arm to Ilsa as they made their way out to his auto.

The ride to church was merry and full of laughter as Tony joked and teased. It was one thing Luna admired about him. By far, he was the most jovial and easygoing of all the Campanelli brothers.

Luna adored her father, but Tony was so fun to be around. She could see how Ilsa, who was normally quiet and reserved, became much more animated and outgoing in his presence. Likewise, Ilsa seemed to balance Tony’s personality.

If Luna ever dared again to consider marriage, she hoped whomever she wed would balance her personality, be a strength to her weaknesses, and draw out the best in her, as she hoped she would do for him. A vision of Hunter’s smiling face popped into her thoughts, and she did her best to shove it away.

Nothing good could come of her infatuation with the man. He was wealthy and used to a life of luxury. A life she couldn’t begin to fathom or even imagine.

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