Ross quieted and looked up at her. “He’s the best. Jack pulled me aside to tell me he’s taken care of all the details from now on. Mrs. Barnard will stay through to the end and beyond as they get the house ready to sell. My father insisted that these things be worked out while he was still alive.”
Melissa knew now why Ross’s father had been so outspoken about Ross and her being more than friends. She thought it was sweet that he wanted to see Ross happily situated like his brothers. Not that she was going to mention this to Ross. She was still trying to come to terms with the idea of being with Ross.
Ross swiped at his face almost angrily. “Sorry to break down like that. Let’s go inside, and if you don’t mind using one of the mini bars in our rooms, I’m ready for a nightcap.”
“Why don’t you come to my room,” she said. “I’ve got a small balcony where we can sit.”
###
Her room, a standard suite, had a living area separate from the bedroom. Melissa set down her purse and went to the mini bar.
“What would you like?” she asked Ross as he headed for the balcony.
“A cold beer, thanks.”
Melissa pulled out two cans and carried them to the balcony, where Ross had seated himself in one of the two chairs.
She handed him his beer and sat in the chair next to his. “Do you want to talk about it or just sit quietly?”
“I want to have this time to think things over,” he said. “Thanks for being so understanding.”
“Of course.” Melissa sipped her beer and looked out over the landscaped space. She, herself, was shaken by all that was happening to Ross and his family and considered herself lucky she hadn’t had to face health issues with her parents.
She got Ross another beer and said, “Are you hungry?”
A smile crossed his face. “Starving. Like you, I didn’t eat much for dinner.”
“There’s a pizza place down the road. Why don’t we order some?” said Melissa. “What do you like?”
He gave her a sheepish smile. “I like Hawaiian pizza, with bacon instead of ham, if you can get it.” He raised his hand. “I know, I know. It’s as far from authentic as possible but impossible to resist.”
“I have to admit I’ve never tried it,” said Melissa, grinning. “But maybe now is the time. I like experimenting with food. I’ll place a call and have it delivered.”
“Thanks,” Ross said.
###
Later, after scarfing down the pizza and sharing beer, Melissa stood. “It’s late. I’m going to bed.”
“I need to get to bed, too,” said Ross. “Do you mind if I stay in your room on the couch? I don’t want to be alone tonight. My father and I had a serious talk, and I know I won’t sleep well.”
“It’s not a problem for you to stay. I understand.” Melissa walked over to him, leaned down, and kissed him on the cheek.
He pulled her into his lap and wrapped his arms around her. “Thanks for being here for me.” He studied her face and then lowered his lips to hers.
Melissa felt as if her body had been melted by a streak of lightning so strong that she could hardly breathe. Sensations rolled through her as strong as thunder, settling into her most sensitive area. She clung to him.
When they finally pulled apart, Ross looked as shocked as she felt. “Sorry, I shouldn’t have done that.”
Uncertain how to respond, Melissa pulled herself to her feet. “Stay as long as you like,” she said to Ross and hurried away, shaken to her core.
Later, lying in bed alone, Melissa tossed and turned, reliving that kiss. When she could stand it no longer, she got up and tiptoed to see if he was still there.
The couch was empty, and he was nowhere to be found.
CHAPTER NINETEEN
The next morning, Melissa got up, took a shower, and dressed, wanting to see how Ross had done overnight.
