Page 6 of Merry With A Milkman

“Is that a regular occurrence? The bus tours, I mean.”

“We’ve only been here since June, but we’ve had at least one tour every month. More now that the weather is a little cooler. Love Beach caters to tourists.”

“Then I’m hoping my cheese shop will become a popular stop. Both for tourists and locals. I thought I was in a good space, but after what you said at the meeting, I still have a lot to learn. I have so many ideas I’d love to run past you.”

“That’s what the meetings are for.” Although I wouldn’t mind having a private session with him.

His shoulders lift with his deep breath. “I hate waiting until next week. Any chance I could pick your brain over coffee sometime?”

“Tonight?” pops out of my mouth before I think better of it.

He looks as surprised as I feel then he gives me a grin. “What time?”

four

Rhone

The afternoon drags once I return the truck to the farm. Steve waves away my offer to help with the pasteurization of the day’s milking. So I try to use the time efficiently in my creamery by planning the next flavor I want to experiment with. I’m too distracted to start actually making any cheese and eventually give up even making notes for the future.

The only future my mind—and body—seem able to focus on is one that includes Tegan. I’m not sure my spontaneous invitation for tonight was a good idea when I don’t really want to talk about business. Getting to know the fascinating woman, discovering if there’s room in her life for me—now that’s important. It won’t destroy me if she’s not as interested as her expression suggested. Better to find that out now before I dig myself in deeper. I won’t go through that heartache again.

Memories chase Tegan’s smiling eyes from my mind. I’d been in love before going overseas. Believed she’d wait for me. The only thing she waited for was making a big show of hugging me after I exited the airport. Then whispering in my ear that shewas involved with someone else and walking away. Bitch didn’t even give me a ride home from the airport. After Steve’s somber welcome home, I’d almost turned around and reupped. At least the Air Force wanted me.

As do a number of organizations who need my talent deciphering codes. I still receive periodic requests to work with them. There are times I’m tempted with a ‘consulting’ position but I have no real desire to be pulled back into that world. However I’m not going to completely close that door. Not yet.

For Tegan though? For her I have the suspicion I’d attempt to change anything she asks. Small things because I’m sure she’d never ask for major changes. Unlike the woman whose name I refuse to say, Tegan wouldn’t require me to fit into some ill-conceived idea of perfection. To hell with three piece suits, brand name shoes, and networking cocktail parties.

Even though I barely know her, I sense with Tegan I can be me. Hopefully that will be enough for her. I’ll be enough for her.

Giving up any pretense of work, I double check the contents of the cheese cave then return to town. Working on my business plan isn’t any more successful. Under a cold shower, I relieve the pressure in my dick, groaning Tegan’s name.

After dressing for our coffee date, I search like a crazed man for the box of condoms I’ve had for—fuck, I don’t want to even think about how long it’s been since I’ve needed one. There, in the back of the top drawer of my dresser. I stare at the unopened box. It’s too soon. It doesn’t matter how hard my body is with wanting her, it’s too soon. We need to be on the same page. I don’t doubt she’ll let me know what she wants when she’s ready.

I return the box to the drawer, then shake my head and grab a couple and stuff them in my wallet. I’ll wait, but I’ll be ready.

More than ready. Grimacing at the bulge behind my zipper, I take a few deep breaths and get myself under control by the time I need to leave.

I park behind Choco-Love and she steps immediately from the doorway to wave. She’s changed from her work outfit to a simple, long sleeved dress. With a sweater hooked on her thumb and tossed back over her shoulder, she’s ready for the cooler evening. Instead of slipping into the passenger seat of my car, she waits until I lower my window then leans on the door.

“Why don’t we walk? And instead of coffee, how about we go to the Book & Barrel. It was a busy day and I could use a relaxing glass of wine.”

“Sounds good.”

Allowing me to exit my car, she steps back with a grin then holds out her hand. At my hesitation her grin fades and she draws a deep breath. “Let’s go,” she says and turns to walk toward the side of the building.

Long strides bring me to her side and against my better judgement, I scoop her hand into mine. I knew touching her would affect me but I’m not ready for the electricity skating over my skin. I glance sideways at her and she turns her head toward me. Eyes wide, she looks ready to speak then presses her lips together and closes her eyes. Her expression turns soft and kissable.

Without thinking about the action, I weave my fingers between hers, pressing our palms together. She sighs and looks at me. “Okay?” I ask.

“Very okay. Umm.”

“Yes?”

Tegan lifts our joined hands. “I’ve been told I’m a little too honest and forthright at times. Well, most of the time. I do tend to speak my mind without too many filters. You’ll never need to guess what I’m thinking.”

Maybe someday I’ll be able to be so open. Her admission is refreshing and different. “What are you thinking?”

“Hmm. Sometimes it gets me in trouble. I hope this isn’t one of them.” She stares at our hands. “Here goes. Last night at the meeting there was something about you that called to me. It was strong, and even though I tried, I haven’t been able to ignore it. Or to stop thinking about you.”

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