Page 38 of Maverick

“He does love you. There’s no doubt there. Uh, how about a dozen yellow roses?” Maverick requested.

“Sure thing. I’ll get those for you. Just give me a minute,” Madilyn said as she removed a dozen yellow roses from the fridge behind the counter.

Maverick leaned against the counter and watched her expertly wrap the delicate flowers in paper before ringing them up at the register. He handed her his credit card and picked up the bouquet with care, admiring its vibrant color and fragrant aroma.

“Thank you, Madilyn,” Maverick said.

“It’s my pleasure. Have a lovely evening,” she replied with a smile.

Maverick nodded at her before leaving the shop and heading back to his truck, hoping Parker would appreciate the roses. He drove through the diner’s parking lot and parked in the back near the stairs. Grabbing the flowers, he got out of the truck and climbed the stairs, knocking on her door when he reached it. She opened the door with a smile, and he ran his eyes over her. She wore a blue T-shirt and jeans, but to him, she was the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen. He handed her the roses.

“Hi,” he said.

“Hi. Thank you so much. Come inside.”

He took off his hat, wiped his feet on the mat, and entered her apartment.

“You’re welcome. Are you ready to go?”

“Just let me put these in the fridge.” She turned away, but he gently grabbed her wrist to stop her. She looked at him with a frown.

“Do you think I could have a kiss?”

“Of course.” She stepped closer and tilted her face up for him.

Maverick leaned down and kissed her lips softly. When she moaned, he pulled her closer and deepened the kiss. Slowly pulling away, he pressed a kiss to her forehead. Parker smiled at him.

“Now put those flowers away so we can get going.”

“Yes, sir.” She saluted playfully, making him chuckle.

“Let’s go then.”

“Oh wait, I have something for you.”

“All I need is you, Parker.”

“That’s sweet, but when I saw this, I thought of you. I’ll give it to you when we get to your place.” She picked up a bag from the bar and turned to face him. “I’m ready whenever you are.”

Parker grabbed her purse and took out her keys. Maverick took them from her, opened the door, gestured for her to go first, then locked it behind them. Handing her back her keys, he took her hand and led her down the stairs. Opening the truck door for her, he helped her in before walking around to climb into the driver’s seat. Giving her one last look, he started the engine and drove to his house.

****

Parker’s stomach churned with nerves as she prepared to spend the night with Maverick. She wanted him desperately, but feared she would disappoint him. They rode in silence, both lost in their own thoughts. Parker longed to say something, anything, but her mind was a jumbled mess.

Finally, she cleared her throat and attempted small talk. “How was your day?”

Maverick grunted. “Hot as hell. And yours?”

“Busy, as always. The shop does incredibly well. Shay wants to hire another person to help during the busy summer months.”

“The tourists will be leaving soon, so things will slow down a bit,” Maverick replied. “But the Clifton Bed and Breakfast stays open until October.”

“What do people do once that happens?” Parker asked.

Maverick smirked. “Lots of indoor activities.”

Parker laughed. “Like card games?”

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