Page 29 of Maverick

He blew out a laugh. “You’re pushing it.”

Parker laughed. “Just one little kiss?”

“I won’t stop at just one little kiss.”

“Maybe I don’t want you to.”

“Now, see? You can’t be saying things like that if you expect me to leave.”

“Maverick, I do want you, I’m just…” She shook her head. “It’s like my first time all over again. I’m nervous.”

“I know.” He kissed her lips. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” Without giving her time to say more, he ran down the steps, climbed into the truck, started it, and drove home.

****

The bright sun streamed through the window, filling Parker’s living room with warmth. She sat on her sofa; eyes glued to the TV screen as she anxiously waited for Maverick to arrive. The sound of a knock made her jump, causing her to quickly get up and make her way to the door. As she opened it, her heart skipped a beat at the sight of him standing there. His white T-shirt hugged his impressive looking pecs, flat stomach, and the sleeves were tight around his biceps. Her eyes moved lower, and she had to bite back a groan. His faded jeans hugged his body like a second skin. Even the well-worn cowboy boots were sexy to her.

“Hi,” she managed to say, trying to keep her composure.

“Hi. If you’re ready, we can go,” Maverick replied, his voice deep and smooth.

Parker nodded, feeling a rush of excitement at the thought of spending the day with him. “Okay, let me grab my purse.”

But before she could turn away, his hand gripped her wrist gently, forcing her to look back at him. Without hesitation, he leaned in and pressed his lips against hers, sending shivers down her spine.

“Good morning,” he whispered against her lips, before kissing her again.

Unable to resist, Parker wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him back eagerly. His strong arms circled around her waist, pulling her closer as they lost themselves in the heat of their kiss. She could feel the intensity of his desire as he pressed his hips against hers. In that moment, nothing else seemed to matter except for the two of them entangled in each other’s embrace. Parker ran her fingers through his thick hair, accidentally knocking off his hat which fell to the floor with a soft thud. But neither of them cared as they continued to kiss passionately, completely consumed by their growing need for one another.

As he lifted his lips from hers, she let out a small whimper of longing. She immediately missed the feel of them on hers, the warmth and softness that sent shivers down her spine.

“We should probably get going,” he said.

Parker could only nod in agreement, still lost in the sensation of their kiss. He picked up his hat, placed it on his head, then led her out the door, waiting patiently as she fumbled to lock it behind them. Together they walked down the steps, hand in hand, and climbed into his truck. The engine roared to life as he drove them to his house.

When they pulled up to the cabin, Parker couldn’t help but gasp in awe. “Oh, Maverick, it’s absolutely stunning,” she exclaimed.

The log home may not have been grand or extravagant, but it exuded a cozy and inviting charm. A few Adirondack chairs sat on the porch, beckoning them to come sit and stay awhile. Parker opened the door of the truck and stepped out, taking in the beauty of their surroundings. The front door of the cabin had a leaded glass window that glimmered in the sunlight, giving it an almost magical quality.

“Thank you. I love it here.”

“Is this a foreman’s house?”

“Yes. Grady lives in another one. Steve and John live off the property with their wives. Come on in, let’s go inside and pack a lunch to take with us.”

Parker followed Maverick into the house, taking in the spacious entryway with its high wooden beams and rustic decor. She couldn’t help but laugh when an energetic dog ran into the kitchen, skidding to a stop on the smooth tile floor as it caught sight of Parker.

“Oh, my goodness, you are just beautiful!” Parker exclaimed as she sat down on the floor and was immediately bombarded by affection from the dog. “Australian shepherd, right?”

Maverick nodded with a smile. “Yes, her name is Blue. She’s a bit spoiled, but I can’t help it.”

Parker continued to pet Blue and rub her belly as she looked around the cozy kitchen, admiring the warm yellow walls and charming decorations. “You named her Blue because she’s a blue merle. Can she come with us?”

“Actually, I was planning to take her,” Maverick replied. “I’ll make us some sandwiches for lunch.”

“While you do that, can I take a look around your home?”

“Go ahead and explore while I get everything ready.”

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