Page 59 of Captured By the Billionaire Cowboy
And she ate everything, or at least a small portion of each. The food was delicious, the ingredients fresh and bursting with flavor. She savored each decadent bite, eating until she was full, and then a little more, before turning to the strawberry shortcake. “I know I shouldn’t…”
But she did, biting into layer after layer of moist pound cake, freshly whipped cream and the ripest, reddest strawberries she’d ever tasted. She finished every single crumb before placing her napkin down and leaning back, relaxing against a moss-covered tree. “If you and Grandma Leigh join forces, you could literally rule the world. Where did you learn to cook like this?”
He stretched out on the blanket, bracing himself with his muscular forearms. “I had a lot of time by myself in high school. My father discouraged friends, and he was frequently away. Frank used to prepare meals for the ranch hands, and sometimes I’d watch. Of course, I don’t have time for it now.”
“Why not?” She straightened. “Aren’t you in charge of the business?”
“Exactly. I don’t have time for hobbies.”
His responsibilities usurped his world, leaving little room for anything else. “But you must have some time,” she said softly. “Some freedom to pursue what you want.”
“I am pursuing something,” he said roguishly. Her heart sped as he edged closer. “Or rather someone.”
She blushed, pressed forward. “Your previous vacations involved dental work. Will you return to your never-ending schedule?” She said the words lightly, but more than curiosity lurked. If she were considering a relationship with him – something she could no longer deny – would she be competing with never-ending work?
He hesitated, as if realizing the question’s unspoken importance. “People count on me.”
“I don’t doubt it. And I’m not suggesting you give up work for a life of island getaways, no matter how tempting it sounds.” She rested her chin on her hands. “I just wonder if you could delegate some of the responsibilities, find a balance that allows you to enjoy life.”
“It’s hard…” He paused. “I don’t know how to…”
“Surrender control?”
He stilled, nodded slowly. “I won’t neglect my responsibilities.”
“Of course not. You’ve been responsible since the day you saved me from a life-or-death fall in the hay.” She put a hand on his arm. “Taking time for yourself doesn’t mean neglecting others. Delegating can be beneficial for everyone. Look at me.”
He winked. “I’d love to.”
“That’s not what I meant.” She took a playful swipe at him, but he moved back and grabbed her hand.
His grin widened. “Now I’m keeping it for good.”
Did that mean she got to keep him?She just managed not to voice the impertinent question. “I planned to save the horses all by myself. However, if I hadn’t accepted help, I’d be on the side of the road with a dozen horses and no way to care for them.” She gestured to Snowflake and King, peacefully relaxing in the shade. “Now we’re opening an organization that will save countless lives, and none of it would’ve been possible withoutyou and Frank. Sometimes you have to let someone help.” She lowered her voice. “Let someone in.”
His expression turned inscrutable and fathomless, a thousand shades of unknown emotion. Endless moments passed. “I’m starting to realize that.”
The atmosphere changed, from horses and work to personal and life-changing. Desire flared, and for once Ciara didn’t fight it. It was far too powerful, too all-consuming, just like the man before her. He leaned in, pulling her closer. Then…
They kissed.
This time was different. Softer, unhurried, as if they possessed all the time in the world. Slow-burning, languid, borne of something far deeper than simple attraction. And yet that ember stoked a flame. When Rowan deepened the kiss, she responded in kind, pressing closer to his heated body. Shivers seized her, sensitizing tender spots, urging her closer to the source of power. The kiss became deeper yet, and now frantic. He explored her body, rubbing her back, her arms,everywhere. She moaned in surrender.
Yet suddenly he stopped, drawing back. Passion blazed in his eyes, unbridled desire burning in their fiery depths. Clearly, he fought for control. “We should stop.”
Stopping was not an option. It had never been. All those times before had merely been postponements. Even if she didn’t know where it would lead, this was the right step.
“No,” she said simply.
Surprise flared in liquid eyes. “No?”
“What I’m trying to say,” she said softly, “isyes.”
His face smoothed in comprehension, then pure desire. She shivered under his scrutiny – challenging, possessive,claiming. Yet ever the gentleman, he asked once more, “Are you sure? It would… complicate matters.”
“It’s already complicated. I lo–” Her heart stumbled. She gulped down courage. “I love how you make me feel,” she finished.
His eyes flashed, but he said nothing more.
