Page 232 of Daddy's Naughty List

“I’m guessing you’re Louisa.”

“You can call me Lulu.”

“How are you settling in? I love your drawings.”

“So far, so good. I’m coming to the orientation meeting this afternoon.”

“Well that’s great—I was going to mention it. Want to make sure that you’ve got all the information on ranch events, chores and the holiday plans.”

“Looking forward to it.”

“Well, I’ll leave you to your drawing. If you need anything, you can find me in my office most afternoons.”

Lulu smiled, and then glanced at her watch. Oh no! Where had the time gone?

“Sir! I’m going to be late for a playdate! Can you point me in the direction of the Nursery?”

“Of course.” Chuck gestured out of the lounge. “Head out and turn left, then keep following the signs. You need to head out of the ranch house and across the past the paddock with the hitching post. It’s a five-minute walk.”

With a grateful grin, Lulu gathered her things and hurried out, her mind already racing with ideas for the upcoming project. She couldn't wait to put pencil to paper and bring Zoey's story to life.

As she navigated the winding pathways of Littlecreek Ranch, Lulu found herself enchanted by the festive decorations that adorned every corner. She headed out of the ranch house, as Chuck had said, and breathed in the chilly air.

Lulu's heart raced as she quickened her pace, her boots crunching against the freshly fallen snow. The crisp, cold air filled her lungs, invigorating her with each breath. She couldn't help but smile, feeling like a character in one of her own whimsical illustrations, dashing through a winter wonderland.

As she rounded a corner, the Nursery came into view—a charming, cozy building nestled among the pines. Lulu's imagination ran wild, picturing the endless hours she would spend there, surrounded by art supplies and kindred spirits, bringing Zoey's tale to life.

She opened the front door, and turned a corner, but she didn’t notice the figure until it was too late. With a startled gasp, she collided with a solid chest, sending her sketchbook and loose pages flying into the air. Papers fluttered like snowflakes, scattering across the wooden floor.

"Oh my goodness, I'm so sorry!" Lulu exclaimed as she dropped to her knees, frantically gathering the fallen pages.

"It's okay," a deep, gentle voice reassured her. "Let me help you with that."

Lulu glanced up, her heart skipping a beat as she met the kind blue eyes of a handsome stranger. He crouched down beside her, his sandy-blond hair tousled, his jaw covered in rugged scruff, and began collecting the wayward papers.

As they worked together, their hands brushed briefly, sending a jolt of electricity through Lulu's body. She felt her blush deepen, suddenly hyper-aware of his presence.

"I think this one's yours," the man said with a hint of a Southern drawl, as he held out a childlike sketch of a horse wearing a Santa hat.

Lulu couldn't help but giggle, her embarrassment fading as she took the drawing from his hand. "Thanks. I guess I got a little carried away with the holiday spirit."

"No, I love it," he replied, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled. "Always good to see someone embrace their playful side."

Lulu felt a warmth spread through her chest, a mix of gratitude and intrigue. Something else, too. Something a little more lusty.

This guy was smoking hot. He had a strong, angular jawline that was dusted with a few days' worth of stubble. He was tall and well built, with broad shoulders and muscular arms. His warm, approachable smile revealed a perfect set of white teeth. And to cap it all, his eyes were oceans, deep and mysterious, and his smile was a dangerous curve that sent shivers down Lulu's spine.

Without meaning to, Lulu took in a long, deep breath. He smelt of a woodsy cologne mixed with the faint scent of mint toothpaste.

She heard him chuckle. It was low and melodic, making her heart skip a beat.

As they finished gathering the fallen pages, the man stood up, offering Lulu his hand. She hesitated for a moment, her heart pounding, before placing her smaller hand in his and allowing him to help her to her feet.

"I'm Benjamin, by the way," he introduced himself, his hand lingering on hers for a moment longer than necessary. "Benjamin Lawson."

"Lulu," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "I mean, Louisa. Louisa Hart."

Ben's smile widened, his blue eyes sparkling with warmth. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Lulu." He paused. “By the way, you can call me Ben.”

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