A moan escaped her throat and traveled through him straight to his cock. He tried to pull her across his lap, but his IV wouldn’t stretch far enough, reminding him of where he was and why. They pulled away, both panting. He was thrilled to see the desire darkening her eyes because he was sure his looked the same.
“You have no idea how bad I wished I was out of this damn hospital.”
“I have some idea,” she returned with a grin. “But it’s probably a good thing for now. You are tempting enough to make me reconsider my plans, but I need to go back. I have loose ends to tie up before I can move forward.”
“I know,” he relented. “It doesn’t mean I have to like it though.”
She sighed. “Me either, but I am coming back, Easton. I’m not walking away from you. I’m not like the others.”
He nodded. “I know, baby. Go. Do what you have to do, but check in with me, okay? Just so I know how you’re doing, and just so I can hear that sexy voice.”
“You got it. Take care of yourself, Easton. Follow the doctor’s orders, or I’ll kick your ass when I get back.”
He let his desire shine through his eyes. “Is that supposed to be a threat or a promise?”
She rolled her eyes. “I think I should go. I have a long drive ahead.” She dropped a lingering kiss on his lips. “Rest. I want you in tip top condition when I come back. I have plans for us. And that’s a promise.”
She moved to the door, and Easton enjoyed watching her shapely ass as she walked. She sure did fill out a pair of jeans to perfection, but now that he knew what she looked like underneath the clothes, he appreciated the view in a whole new way.
“Hey, Bailee?”
She turned to face him as she reached the door. “Yeah?”
“I think I might love you too.”
She smiled. “Only think?”
“For now. Something tells me you could change my mind.”
“Something to look forward to. Talk to you later, Easton.”
She left, but Easton wasn’t sad to see her go. She promised she’d returned, and he believed her. He had no idea what the future held for them, but he had a feeling it was going to be one hell of a ride.
Epilogue
One month later…
The evening had been magical. Fairy lights shone whimsically from the tree limbs. Water rippled from the pond on the edge of Whitman’s outdoor dining area. Music filtered through strategically placed speakers. And the bride and groom swayed on the grass while friends and family looked on.
Bailee smiled, amazed at how teary-eyed she felt. Weddings had never been emotional events for her, but this one had hit her strong. She never expected to be asked to stand with Melody as she wed Luke, but she was enthusiastic in her acceptance.
Spending the last two months getting to know her, Reagan, and the rest of Easton’s family had been special. She loved how they included her as if she’d been a part of their family for years.
She felt Easton step up behind her before his arms encircled her waist. She placed her hands on top of his where they settled on her stomach. Leaning back against him, she rested her head on his shoulder, contentment warming her heart.
“Wanna dance?” he asked her.
A few guests were already moving with the music, including Ben who danced with Melody’s sister Lyric. Bailee shook herhead and then turned in Easton’s arms, so she could stare into his face.
“As tempting as it is to dance with your body close and your eyes around me, I think I’d rather sit down. I want to pull these heels off my aching feet.”
Easton chuckled. “You got it.”
He dropped a kiss to her lips. What started as a sweet kiss turned passionate quickly. When Easton’s hands started running up her side heading for her breasts, Bailee broke the contact and placed her hands on top of his to stop their exploration.
“Wrong time. Wrong place. Save all that passion for later,” she teased.
She expected his charming smile and a saucy comment. He caught her off guard with his sudden seriousness, his eyes darkening with something she couldn’t decipher. He pulled her body even closer, his hold on her tightening.