Page 46 of Taken By Storm

“What do your brothers think about us?” she asked softly. Obviously, he hadn’t been the only one tuned into their audience.

“I haven’t had a chance to talk to them, but I’m not worried. They love you, little bear. Always have.”

“Yeah, but that affection is based on the fact I’m Remi’s best friend. They might have different feelings about…this.”

“They won’t, but even if they did, it doesn’t matter. The only person whose feelings I care about are yours.”

She gave him a sideways glance. “You know you’re going to have to give me some time to figure out those feelings, right? You only sprung this caveman side of yours on me four days ago and I’m still not entirely sure what’s going on.”

Levi chuckled. “I’m aware of that. That’s why I’m willing to give you a few more days to catch up.”

“Wow. All of a few days. You are so generous.” Before he could reply, she raised her hand, covering a yawn.

He kissed the top of her head. “As soon as the show is over, I’ll drive you home. You need another early night. No more burning the midnight oil.”

“That sounds nice…in theory. I don’t think I realized how tired I’ve been lately until today, when I felt well-rested.”

The sounds of cheers reached their ears, and Everett’s crowing told them who’d made the most correct guesses.

Everyone drifted to the front porch, laughing. Mr. Mills stepped next to Everett, commenting that it had been like watching the show with his wife. Then the edges of his eyes crinkled, thanks to his wide smile, as he added, “Trina would have given you a run for your money.”

Levi heard Kasi’s soft intake of breath, aware she was waiting for sadness to accompany those words, but her father’s smile held as he thanked them for a wonderful night. Keith rounded the corner just as they were saying their goodbyes, walking straight to the truck and leaning against it with an impatient, bored demeanor. Several of his brothers gave Kasi a hug, the others shaking Mr. Mills’ hand, telling him he was welcome back anytime, then bragging about whose dinner menu for this week would be worth the drive up the mountain.

The trip home was just as quiet as the one to Stormy Weather Farm, everyone pleasantly full and drowsy.

When they arrived back at the farm, Mr. Mills excused himself, proclaiming it was past his bedtime. Keith, who’d apparently hit his limit on spending time with adults, hopped on his motorcycle to go “chill with some buds.”

Levi and Kasi walked to the living room, sinking down on the couch together.

“You planning to come back tomorrow?” she asked.

He nodded, resting his arm along the back of the couch behind her. “Yup,” he said, leaning closer so that his lips were near her ear. He gave her a soft kiss on the cheek.

“You don’t have to, you know,” she said, not for the first time. Kasi was still struggling with accepting his help. “I’m sure you have a million things you need to do on your own farm.”

“In case you didn’t notice tonight, I have a big family. All of whom are happy to cover some of my chores while I help you.”

“Yes, but that’s not fair to them,” she insisted.

“Kasi,” he murmured in her ear.

“Yeah?”

“I’m coming back. My plan is to put a big-ass dent in that list of yours before harvest time really kicks in at the vineyard.”

“It’s too much.”

“It’s not much at all, little bear. So just say thank you and kiss me.”

She turned her head toward his. “Thank you,” she whispered, placing a too-quick kiss on his lips.

Levi had spent most of the night looking forward to spending time alone with her. Now, he had her right where he wanted her. Leaning in, he let go of the reins, taking what he wanted, gripping the back of her neck, showing her how long a good kiss should last.

The best part was, Kasi was right there with him, just as hungry, just as needy as he was.

Their kiss was no gentle thing. There was no slow build-up. Their lips clashed together right at the crescendo, the kiss so overpowering, Levi couldn’t believe the windows weren’t rattling in their sills.

Her hands made their way to his hair as he grasped her waist, needing her closer.

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