Total pages in book: 24
Estimated words: 22480 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 112(@200wpm)___ 90(@250wpm)___ 75(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 22480 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 112(@200wpm)___ 90(@250wpm)___ 75(@300wpm)
“They grow Christmas trees here, but there’s also a pumpkin patch and hayrides. Lots to do during fall and winter.”
As soon as we’re out of the truck—Derek helped me down again—I spot a cowboy with a cream-colored Stetson coming into the gravel parking area that’s already filled with vehicles.
He tips his hat to me and scowls at Derek. “Thought I saw your ugly ass on the security camera.”
Derek grins. “This is West. He’s the grumpiest Christmas tree rancher you’ll ever meet. West, this is Wynter. She’s my—”
“Co-worker,” I answer to prevent Derek from trying to awkwardly define our relationship. I definitely don’t want him calling me his baby’s mother. I give the scowling cowboy a smile I don’t feel and hold out my hand.
For someone that’s supposedly grumpy, he sure does take my hand awful quick. He also gives Derek a gloating look that I don’t understand at all.
It’s his turn to scowl. “We’re here for the pumpkin patch.”
“You’re just in time.” West drops my hand. “It’s our last ride of the day before we close up shop round here.”
We follow him across a winding dirt path that’s lined with leaves. The air here is fresh and crisp but it’s not too chilly with Derek’s jacket still warming my shoulders.
West pauses to point to a cozy looking house in the distance that has a front porch decorated for fall with cheerful pumpkins, hay bales, and even a scarecrow standing guard.
“That’s home. The red barn in the back is Cassie’s workshop. She makes toys for kids. Best damn toymaker in the state. Got dozens of patents. The big city companies keep trying to steal her away from me.” He seems to realize what he said and quickly adds, “From the farm.”
He lapses into silence after that and I can’t help wondering about the story with West and Cassie. Is there something between this grumpy Christmas tree rancher and the toymaker? Or is my own love life so pathetic that I’m seeing something that isn’t there?
West eventually stops in a clearing where a wagon has been attached to a large green tractor. The wagon is filled with hay and people. Most of them are on their phones, taking selfies and talking to each other in excited tones. “Micah is driving the tractor today. But if you need anything, ask Ledger. He’ll be the tour guide.”
West goes to help me into the wagon, but Derek shoots him a look and he instantly drops his hand. He holds up his arms, as if to indicate he meant no harm.
I can’t figure out why he’s being so possessive. It has to be about the baby. Now that I’m carrying his kid, he’s extra protective. Just like Lincoln is with Lucy and Cam is with Journey. Except that it’s different. Because they’re both in love and Derek isn’t.
I force the sad thought away and wait until Derek joins me on the wagon. He scoots close, pressing his thigh against mine. The casual connection between our bodies sends electricity humming through my veins. I wonder if he still feels that connection under his skin. It’s as if he embedded a part of himself deep in me when we were together, leaving a part of him behind.
Ledger is a funny and entertaining tour guide. He’s clearly comfortable in the spotlight and answers questions from all of the guests tonight. Between the crisp air and the feeling of Derek pressed up against me, I never want to leave this moment. But it’s over all too soon and we eventually drive back to my apartment.
“I had fun tonight,” I say without looking at him. I’m pretending to search my purse for my keys but really I’m just buying time.
“I had fun too,” his voice is husky.
When I look up, Derek is standing closer than I remember. So close that we’re sharing the same air. His head dips, and he presses his lips against mine. It’s a soft brush, not the commanding kisses like he gave me that night. No, this is tender and exploratory like he wants to spend a long, sweaty night together.
My heart skips a beat and my whole body lights up at his gentle kisses. But when he cups my head, all of my common sense returns. I find the strength to put my hand on his chest and pull away from him. “No.”
He instantly straightens though I don’t miss the longing that flashes across his face. But just because the chemistry between us is incredible, that doesn’t solve all of our problems.
“Can I stay tonight?” His voice is quiet, and he holds up his hands. “No funny business.”
I agree with a nod. Even if we’re not together, there’s still something about Derek’s presence. Having him nearby calms and centers me. Besides, I don’t really want to be alone. Not tonight.