Page 35 of Keep You Safe
Adler seemed bound and determined to wiggle his way into my life, exactly like those dogs of his. However, he’d eventually stop trying, which was a thought I liked even less. I couldn’t get used to his niceness before then. I knew more than most that it was far easier to live without something than to have it, lose it, and then have to figure out how to go on.
Chapter Eighteen
Adler
I’d orchestratedany number of elaborate hotel parties and events, arranged for exclusive restaurant and show reservations, and assisted in more than one over-the-top proposal, but pulling off Thanksgiving on the ranch might be my proudest accomplishment. The main house smelled like a memory—roast turkey mingling with sweet yeasty scents. Everywhere I looked, there was more food. The kitchen island was heaped with turkey and all the side dishes, while adjacent tables hosted desserts, breads, and salads.
“Is it possible we have too much food?” Maverick interrupted my survey of the food and happy guests as he came up alongside me in the large open kitchen.
“No such thing as too much food.” If nothing else, the bunkhouse would welcome leftovers. And the pies possibly outnumbering the guests seemed like a happy problem to have.
“I’m not sure the house has ever been this full.” Maverick added a roll to his crowded plate of food as he glanced around fondly. Colt and both girls had claimed seats near the TV on the far sofa, which had been pushed back to allow space for card tables and folding chairs. Other guests spilled into the formal dining room and front parlor. Most of the hands had opted tojoin us, along with Colt’s aunt and a couple of random friends and cousins. “That’s not a complaint either. I like this new energy.”
“I do too.” I’d never met Maverick’s father, but I’d heard enough stories about his toxic parenting and miserable attitude. Filling the stately older home with fresh memories seemed like a wonderful tribute to Maverick’s hard work redoing the place. “Speaking of new energy, how is wedding planning coming?”
“Hectic.” Maverick groaned. He and Colt were having a New Year’s Eve wedding, and last I heard, the planning kept getting hijacked by various relatives. “I have no idea what we were thinking, planning something so soon.”
“You were thinking you’re in love and can’t wait to make it official.” I laughed lightly, determined to not show even a hint of jealousy. Maverick had reunited with the love of his life. Of course he wanted to put a ring on Colt in a hurry. Meanwhile, I was over here all but groveling for another repeat from Grayson, about as far from my own happy ending as possible.
“True.” Maverick rolled his neck from side to side. “I feel bad, though, because I haven’t been putting enough energy toward the dude ranch project. You keep sending me ideas, and I’m simply waiting for the brain space to implement them.”
“We’ll get there.” The longer I worked as a hand, the more robust my vision for guests became. My enthusiasm could be a lot under the best of circumstances, let alone mid-wedding planning. Although I was eager to get started implementing my ideas, I could wait until after the new year. And I was in no hurry to move on from being a hand and seeing Grayson on the daily. “Be gentle with yourself.”
“Thanks.” Maverick smiled warmly. “Couldn’t do the project without you. Or this dinner. It all came together beautifully. Can you plan Christmas too?”
He laughed like the request was more of a tease, but I already had pages of notes for how to make that holiday a success as well.
“I’m on it.” I adopted the confident tone Maverick needed. He had enough on his to-do list, and I was more than happy to make the season merry for everyone. “Later, we’ll draw for Secret Santa for those who are interested.”
“I won’t play because I don’t want to make things awkward for anyone, but I’m cheering you on.”
“The perils of being the big boss.” I grinned at him. Slowly but surely, Maverick was settling into his role as the ranch owner. “Now, go sit with Sheriff Sexy before he comes over and pries you away.”
“Okay.” Maverick had only glanced toward Colt a dozen times during our short conversation. Chuckling, he gestured at all the food tables. “And you need to make yourself a plate already.”
“Eventually.” I delayed the order to eat, instead circulating my list for Secret Santa, making sure the coolers of soft drinks and water were well-stocked, arranging small plates near the dessert table, and answering various guest questions.
I felt useful and needed in a way I hadn’t since my last hotel job. And not only that, but Maverick actively wanted me here. I had no doubt he could pull off the wedding and holiday celebrations without me, but the certainty that I made his load easier made my chest feel airy and my steps light. I loved handling details like this, ensuring everyone else had a wonderful time, secure in the knowledge that I’d done my best.
After making my rounds, however, hunger won out, and I filled a plate with turkey and various side dishes. I grabbed a sparkling water from one of the coolers of drinks. I’d done an online twelve-step meeting early that morning, and my recovery was in a strong place. Unlike past holidays, I wasn’t temptedto drink or add chemical enhancement to an already satisfying experience. Other than the slight, manageable jealousy over Maverick and Colt’s happiness, I was content with my life.
That teeny bit of longing, though, kept me from seeking a spot near the happy couple. I could have joined any number of other guests, and indeed, I was about to head toward the dining room when I spotted a familiar face seated on the back stairs.
“What are you doing hiding out?” I asked as I plopped myself down a few steps lower than where Grayson was perched.
“Eating in peace is underrated.” He gave me a meaningful look that I fully intended to ignore. Instead, I surveyed his plate of turkey, potatoes, stuffing, and other sides. At least a third of the plate was occupied by a generous portion of green bean casserole.
My oldest sister and I didn’t talk all that often, but she’d been happy enough to send me the recipe and chat a bit about her kids’ school activities and my ranch adventures, the sort of small talk that usually left me lonelier than before I’d called. But obtaining the recipe had been worth it, especially if Grayson liked the dish.
“What did you think of the casserole?”
“It’ll do.” He shrugged, but his small, pleased smile gave him away.
I wasn’t about to let him off that easily. “I tried hard.”
“I know you did. You did good.” Grayson gentled his tone. “I…uh…suck at giving compliments.”
“Except when you don’t.” I gave him a pointed stare that replayed the heated memory of every bit of sexy praise he’d handed out.
