Page 44 of The Rebel with Broken Strings
As they all settled around the table, Gunner couldn’t take his eyes off Aubrey. The way she effortlessly commanded the room, dishing out plates with the precision of a seasoned chef, stirred something deep within him. It wasn’t just attraction—it was admiration, respect, and something dangerously close to love.
“This smells incredible,” he said, inhaling deeply as Aubrey set a steaming plate before him.
She beamed, a hint of pride in her voice. “Just a little something I whipped up. Nothing fancy.”
Gunner took a bite, flavors exploding on his tongue. “Darlin’, if this is ‘nothing fancy,’ I can’t imagine what you’d do if you were really trying to impress.”
Aubrey’s cheeks flushed slightly, and Gunner felt a surge of affection. He loved that he could still make her blush, this fierce, independent woman who’d seen and overcome so much.
The warmth of the conversation around the table enveloped Gunner like a familiar melody. Eli’s deep chuckle mingled with Jaxon’s animated storytelling, creating a harmony that filled the room.
“Remember that time we tried to wrangle old Bessie?” Jaxon grinned, nudging Gunner with his elbow.
Gunner groaned. “How could I forget? That cow had it out for me from day one.”
Aubrey leaned in, her eyes dancing with curiosity. “Oh, this I’ve got to hear.”
As Jaxon launched into the tale, Gunner found himself watching Aubrey. The way she threw her head back in laughter, the slight crinkle around her eyes—it was a side of her he was still getting to know, and he cherished every moment of it.
“You boys were something else,” Aubrey said, shaking her head fondly. “Pure trouble.”
Gunner’s heart swelled as he winked. “Still are, darlin’. Just a little more weathered now.”
Thirteen
A couple hours later, after making a quick trip back to Audrey’s house, the clatter of dishes and the warm laughter of friends filled the kitchen as Gunner, Jaxon and Eli finished cleaning up after dinner. Aubrey watched from the table, along with Willow and Charly, stuffed full and finally warm again after spending all day outside.
When Gunner finally finished, wiping his hands on a towel, his eyes drifted to hers and he gestured for her to follow him into the living room.
As she reached him, he tugged her close. “Hey there, darlin’,” he drawled, his voice dropping to that low, inviting tone that never failed to send a quiver down Aubrey’s spine. “How about you and I slip away for a little surprise?”
“A surprise, huh?” she repeated. “What kind of surprise are we talking about?”
He chuckled, the sound rich and warm. “Now, if I told you, it wouldn’t be a surprise, would it?” He extended his hand to her, his calloused fingers a stark contrast to her smooth ones. “Trust me?”
“Alright, cowboy,” she said finally, slipping her hand into his. “Lead the way.”
“We’ll be spending more time outside,” Gunner said. “Dress warm.”
Aubrey nodded, savoring the heat of his body next to hers. “Okay,” she replied. “But maybe you could tell me where we’re going to help me get a better feel of what I should wear?” She really hated surprises.
Gunner’s laugh rumbled through her. “Patience, darlin’. Some things are worth the wait.”
She laughed, shaking her head, but dressed in all her warmest clothes, including a snow suit, hat and mitts, and then followed him to his truck after they said quick goodbyes to the others.
Once outside, she settled into the passenger seat of Gunner’s truck, her heart racing as he climbed in beside her. The engine roared to life, its low growl filling the comfortable silence between them. As they pulled away from the ranch, Aubrey stole a glance at Gunner, admiring the way the dashboard lights cast a soft glow on his rugged features.
“Now are you gonna tell me where we’re headed?” she asked, unable to contain her curiosity.
Gunner’s lips curved into a mischievous smile. “Now where’s the fun in that?”
Aubrey rolled her eyes playfully but couldn’t help the flutter in her chest. She turned her gaze to the window, watching as the familiar streets of Timber Falls gave way to winding country roads. The stars above seemed to shine brighter with each passing mile.
“You know,” Gunner said softly, breaking the silence, “I used to drive these roads late at night when I was struggling when I first came home.” He paused, his grip tightening slightly on the steering wheel. “Something about the open road always helped clear my head.”
Aubrey felt a pang in her heart, recognizing the vulnerability in his admission. “And now?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Gunner’s eyes met hers for a brief moment, filled with an intensity that took her breath away. “Now, I’ve got better reasons to stay grounded.” He gave a small smile. “And I’ve learned better pain management.”
